Methods in Applied Plant Biology
A.Y. 2020/2021
Learning objectives
The teaching aims to offer an overview of the main technologies used in Plant Biology, ranging through genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry and metabolism studies. The course also aims to provide the theoretical basis for planning experiments with plants correctly.
Expected learning outcomes
At the end of the teaching, the student will have acquired theoretical skills on the methods described, will be able to apply them in the context of a specific biological question, will be able to plan experiments in the lab and interpret the data, also based on appropriate statistical methods.
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
Streaming lessons using the TEAMS channel. The material will be uploaded on ARIEL as pdf and video lectures.
In prevision of not being able to visit the laboratories for do some training in lab, we propose seminars of international researchers (plant scientists) working in different fields/areas of plant biology providing examples of multidisciplinary aspects introduced in the course (researchers work both in the field of public/basic research and from biotech companies).
In prevision of not being able to visit the laboratories for do some training in lab, we propose seminars of international researchers (plant scientists) working in different fields/areas of plant biology providing examples of multidisciplinary aspects introduced in the course (researchers work both in the field of public/basic research and from biotech companies).
Course syllabus
Part I
- Principles for correctly designing an experiment. Practical introduction to scientific discussion.
-Model plants, Genetic transformation through Agrobacterium tumefaciens and the vectors necessary for transgenesis. Floral dip, particle gun and transformation through in vitro cultures. Manipulation of plants in a sterile environment.
-Mutagenesis and genome editing in plants (with practical examples of data analysis and interpretation)
Seminar on GENOME EDITING
-Analysis of gene expression: structure of plant promoters, types of RNA, transcription and retro-transcription, in situ hybridizations, use of reporter genes.
- Analysis of protein-DNA and protein-protein interactions.
- Quantitative PCR-
- Optical microscopy - Fluorescence - Confocal - Electronics (SAM and TEM)
- Practical examples focused on the theme CLIMATE CHANGE, in particular on hormonal fluxes.
Part II
- Introduction to the study of plant cell walls; proteins, enzymology and analytical techniques. Related development processes, case studies.
- Principles of biomechanics applied to plants; Principles and methodologies.
- Methods of studying plant metabolism; Biosynthetic processes, subcellular localization and cell fractionation.
- Principles and usefulness of new "omics" technologies.
- Principles, applications and regulation of biotechnologies in agriculture.
- The scientific article; Impact factor, peer review process, scientific discussion and debate.
- Communication and dissemination of research.
The course also aims to provide the theoretical and practical basis and critical points for correctly planning experiments in the context of a researcher in plant biology.
- Principles for correctly designing an experiment. Practical introduction to scientific discussion.
-Model plants, Genetic transformation through Agrobacterium tumefaciens and the vectors necessary for transgenesis. Floral dip, particle gun and transformation through in vitro cultures. Manipulation of plants in a sterile environment.
-Mutagenesis and genome editing in plants (with practical examples of data analysis and interpretation)
Seminar on GENOME EDITING
-Analysis of gene expression: structure of plant promoters, types of RNA, transcription and retro-transcription, in situ hybridizations, use of reporter genes.
- Analysis of protein-DNA and protein-protein interactions.
- Quantitative PCR-
- Optical microscopy - Fluorescence - Confocal - Electronics (SAM and TEM)
- Practical examples focused on the theme CLIMATE CHANGE, in particular on hormonal fluxes.
Part II
- Introduction to the study of plant cell walls; proteins, enzymology and analytical techniques. Related development processes, case studies.
- Principles of biomechanics applied to plants; Principles and methodologies.
- Methods of studying plant metabolism; Biosynthetic processes, subcellular localization and cell fractionation.
- Principles and usefulness of new "omics" technologies.
- Principles, applications and regulation of biotechnologies in agriculture.
- The scientific article; Impact factor, peer review process, scientific discussion and debate.
- Communication and dissemination of research.
The course also aims to provide the theoretical and practical basis and critical points for correctly planning experiments in the context of a researcher in plant biology.
Prerequisites for admission
The student must be familiar with the anatomy of plants and have a solid foundation in molecular and genetic biology. The exam consists of a written test with open questions. The questions will focus on the topics described during the course and intend to evaluate both the knowledge of analytical-instrumental techniques and the student's ability to reason on the theoretical-scientific basis of the topics covered. The questions can also include a data interpretation exercise according to the methods presented during the lessons.
Teaching methods
Teaching is based on lessons supported by PowerPoint slides and videos. Students will also visit a research lab to observe some techniques and use some of the instruments described during the course. They will perform simple experiments.
Teaching Resources
The slides and videos shown during the course and scientific articles and reviews (in English) will be distributed by the teachers. The slides of the course are not sufficient material for the preparation of the exam; therefore, it is strongly recommended to support that material with notes taken during the lessons (it is also recommended to attend the classes).
Assessment methods and Criteria
The student must be familiar with the anatomy of plants and have a solid foundation in molecular and genetic biology. The exam consists of a written test with open questions. The questions will focus on the topics described during the course and intend to evaluate both the knowledge of analytical-instrumental techniques and the student's ability to reason on the theoretical-scientific basis of the topics covered. The questions can also include a data interpretation exercise according to the methods presented during the lessons.
BIO/01 - GENERAL BOTANY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours
Professors:
Ezquer Garin Juan Ignacio, Miranda Mendes Marta Adelina
Professor(s)
Reception:
previo appuntamento richiesto per e-mail