Molecular Microbiology and Genetics of Microorganisms
A.Y. 2019/2020
Learning objectives
The aims of the course are to illustrate:
i) how bacteria sense to different environmental stimuli;
ii) how gene expression is regulated in bacteria at the level of single cells and population;
ii) to discuss methods and strategies in bacterial research.
i) how bacteria sense to different environmental stimuli;
ii) how gene expression is regulated in bacteria at the level of single cells and population;
ii) to discuss methods and strategies in bacterial research.
Expected learning outcomes
At the end of the course the students will reach an integrated view of the mechanisms by which bacterial cells perceive environmental stimuli, transduce them as intracellular signals and implement proper regulatory and physiological responses. Moreover, the students will be trained to propose strategies and experimental approaches to the resolution of biological problems.
Lesson period: First semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
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
Responsible
Lesson period
First semester
Course syllabus
-Introduction to general strategies of gene expression regulation in bacteria: sigma and anti-sigma factors, repressors and activators.
-Regulation of the arabinose operon.
-Response to genotoxic agents: the SOS response and spread of antibiotic resistance. Bacterial persisters.
-Response to temperature upshift: RpoH and RpoE regulons.
-Regulation by non-coding RNA
-Signal transduction by Two-Component Regulatory Systems (TCRS). Bacterial chemotaxis.
-Cell-to-cell communication in microbial communities. Quorum sensing and biofilm formation.
-Bacteria-Eukarya relationship. General concepts and methods to the study of virulence and virulence genes
-Regulation of the arabinose operon.
-Response to genotoxic agents: the SOS response and spread of antibiotic resistance. Bacterial persisters.
-Response to temperature upshift: RpoH and RpoE regulons.
-Regulation by non-coding RNA
-Signal transduction by Two-Component Regulatory Systems (TCRS). Bacterial chemotaxis.
-Cell-to-cell communication in microbial communities. Quorum sensing and biofilm formation.
-Bacteria-Eukarya relationship. General concepts and methods to the study of virulence and virulence genes
Prerequisites for admission
The students must have basic knowledge (Bachelor level) in Microbiology, Genetics and Molecular biology.
Teaching methods
Traditional, Powerpoint-assisted lectures, with ample time dedicated to biological problem solving and the discussion of different approaches to answer biological questions. Students are strongly encouraged to attend lessons and take part in the active discussions. It is strongly recommended that students attend lectures.
Teaching Resources
General concepts in Microbiology can be retrieved in: Brock Biology of Microorganisms (15th Edition) by M. Madigan et al. Specific review articles on the topics treated during the classes will be proposed. The slides shown during the classes will be available on the course Ariel website.
Assessment methods and Criteria
Evaluation will be carried out by a written exam with open questions, concerning the topics discussed in the classes. Students who attend more than 75% of lectures can choose whether to do the above written exam or a discussion (oral and written) of selected papers (first exam session only).
BIO/18 - GENETICS
BIO/19 - MICROBIOLOGY
BIO/19 - MICROBIOLOGY
Lessons: 48 hours
Professor:
Briani Federica
Shifts:
-
Professor:
Briani FedericaProfessor(s)
Reception:
wednesday 15:30-16:30 on appointment required by e-mail
DBS, via Celoria 26, 4th floor, tower C