Molecular Breeding and Plant Genetics

A.Y. 2018/2019
6
Max ECTS
48
Overall hours
SSD
AGR/07 BIO/18
Language
English
Learning objectives
The main goal of the course is to supply the students with knowledge about the strategies and tools used in breeding programs, combining quantitative genetics and biotechnology to identify the genomic regions containing genes of interest and, subsequently, to conceive appropriate crosses and selection strategies
Expected learning outcomes
Undefined
Single course

This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Course syllabus
· How to study agronomically important traits. From simple Mendelian traits (e.g. disease resistance) to quantitative traits.
· Variance and heritability of a phenotypic trait. Relevance of heritability in breeding programs.
· Genetic molecular markers and linkage map constructions as breeding tools.
· Identification of gene associated with traits of agronomical value through various approaches: candidate gene, Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS), Marker Assisted Selection (or Breeding, MAS or MAB), genomic selection, etc.
· Experimental design strategies used in breeding programs for the improvement and selection of plant and animal species; examples in grass and tree species.
· Relevance, analysis and exploitation of the genetic variability available in germplasm collection and repositories.


REFERENCE MATERIAL
Scientific papers indicated at the beginning and during the course


PREREQUISITES AND EXAMINATION PROCEDURES
Basic knowledge of genetics and statistics.
The oral exam consists in a discussion on topics presented during the course.


TEACHING METHODS
Traditional lectures with powerpoint presentations, available to the students after the lecture.


LANGUAGE
English


WEB PAGES
Unimi Ariel website
AGR/07 - AGRICULTURAL GENETICS
BIO/18 - GENETICS
Lectures: 48 hours
Professor(s)
Reception:
Upon email request
2nd floor, C building, Dept. of Biosciences