Chemistry and biochemistry, biology and genetics 2

Module Biology and genetics

The course provides students with the basic knowledge of cell biology and genetics necessary to understand the general principles underlying life and the biological basis of health and disease. The course includes an integrated study of cells and living organisms, with particular emphasis on the basic mechanisms involved in the replication and transmission of genetic information, cellular structures, and the biological basis of heredity.

The main objectives are knowledge of the chemical and molecular bases of life; the study of cellular structures and functions; and an understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of genetic information transmission, from Mendel's laws to the genetics of complex traits.

The main knowledge and learning skills acquired by students will include:

- learning the chemical and molecular bases of life, the structure and function of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, the mechanisms of replication, transmission, and expression of genetic information, and the fundamentals of Mendelian genetics and human genetics (heredity, chromosomes, mutations).

- applying the knowledge acquired to interpret the biological phenomena underlying human physiology and pathology, to read and interpret a simple family tree, and to recognize the mode of inheritance of a hereditary condition.

- developing the ability to critically evaluate biological and genetic information to reconstruct the molecular processes underlying cellular physiology.

- acquiring the ability to communicate biology and genetics concepts clearly and comprehensibly, using scientifically correct yet accessible language.

- developing a study method that allows students to independently continue updating their biological and genetic knowledge.

The course consists of 14 hours of in-person teaching, supported by slides and videos.

If the course is taught in a blended or distance learning format, any necessary changes to the above-mentioned curriculum may be made in order to adhere to the planned program outlined in this syllabus.

General knowledge of the structure and function of the main biological macromolecules and of cellular information metabolism acquired during upper secondary education.

Mandatory, according to the attendance percentages dictated by the Degree Course Regulations

1) Introduction to the course: the eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell;

2) Organic macromolecules: proteins;

3) Organic macromolecules: nucleic acids;

4) DNA, chromatin and chromosomes;

5) Structure and function of genes;

6) Transcription in eukaryotes and prokaryotes;

7) Translation in eukaryotes and prokaryotes;

8) DNA duplication in eukaryotes and prokaryotes;

9) Mitosis and Meiosis;

10) Point mutations and chromosomal and genomic aberrations;

11) Fundamentals of Mendelian genetics and human genetics

1. Elementi di Biologia e Genetica. P. Bonaldo, C. Crisafulli, R. D'Angelo, M. Francolini, S. Grimaudo, C. Rinaldi, P. Riva, M.G. Romanelli. Ed. EdiSES
2. Biologia e Genetica. G. De Leo, S. Fasano, E. Ginelli. Ed. EdiSES
3. Fondamenti di Biologia e Genetica. R. Pierantoni, G. Cobellis, R. Meccariello, R. Chianese. Ed. EdiSES
4. Elementi di biologia e genetica. D Sadava, DM Hillis, HC Heller, S Hacker. Ed. Zanichelli

Multiple-choice test.

Learning assessment may also be conducted online, if circumstances require it.

To ensure equal opportunities and in compliance with applicable laws, interested students may request a personal interview to plan any compensatory and/or extenuating measures, based on their learning objectives and specific needs. Students may also contact the CInAP (Center for Active and Participatory Integration — Services for Disabilities and/or DSA) contact teacher in their department (https://www.cinap.unict.it/content/referenti).