Biology with Elements of Microbiology

The course aims to provide students with basic knowledge of the fundamental characteristics of animal cell biology and microorganisms, giving them a general understanding of the molecular mechanisms of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell functions: metabolism and the flow of genetic information (the gene and the genome, DNA replication, transcription, and translation). Students will be provided with insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying cell proliferation, cell-to-cell communication, asexual and sexual reproduction, and the principles of heredity (Mendelian genetics). Students will also be provided with fundamental knowledge about the characteristics of the main microbiological agents that can cause harm to humans if present in drugs as contaminating agents.
The knowledge provided by this course aims to prepare students to face the biological course of the following years and to understand the impact of microbiological agents on the safety of the finished natural product (from raw materials to packaging).

At the end of the course, the student should be able to:
-describe the main biological characteristics of animal cells (Eukaryotes) and microorganisms (prokaryotes).
- describe the biological functions of animal cells: cell membrane, enzymes, cytoplasmic organelles, cellular metabolism, flow of genetic information from DNA to proteins, , cell-matrix and cell-cell interactions, intercellular communications, mitosis and meiosis, asexual/sexual reproduction, and principles of heredity (Mendelian laws).
- describe basic concepts of microbiology, including aspects such as microbial ecology and evolution, structure and function of prokaryotic cells, diversity, and classification of microorganisms, understanding the basic principles of virology, the role of microorganisms in the environment-animal-human interface, the impact of microorganisms on product safety.
- use specific biological language to communicate acquired knowledge.