Microbial Biotechnology
A.Y. 2023/2024
Learning objectives
The course aims at building a basic knowledge of the main technologies and processes in production of heterologous proteins and of molecules of high added value in microbial systems, in particular for industrial use. Another main goal is providing specific knowledge on the utilization of expression vectors, on metabolic engineering and on genetic improvement of microrganisms of industrial use. In the course, it will also be discussed the biology of antibiotic-producing microrganisms such as Actynomycetes, and the biochemistry and molecular biology aspects of antibiotic synthesis. Finally, the course will tackle the main environmental applications of microbial biotechnology, namely, use of biosensors and bioremediation processes.
Expected learning outcomes
With this course, the student will acquire detailed knowledge and understanding of the basic biotechnological applications involving microorganisms, in particular in an industrial context.
The student will be able to use advanced methods for cloning and expression of heterologous genes in Escherichia coli for industrial purposes.
Critical and judgmental skills, and communicating what has been learned, are developed above all with laboratory activities and the discussion in class of the results obtained.
The individual contribution of the student in the laboratory activities and in the specific cases analyzed in class will be fundamental for the acquisition of a critical spirit and in the ability to analyze and solve problems.
The student will be able to use advanced methods for cloning and expression of heterologous genes in Escherichia coli for industrial purposes.
Critical and judgmental skills, and communicating what has been learned, are developed above all with laboratory activities and the discussion in class of the results obtained.
The individual contribution of the student in the laboratory activities and in the specific cases analyzed in class will be fundamental for the acquisition of a critical spirit and in the ability to analyze and solve problems.
Lesson period: First semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course can be attended as a single course.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
First semester
Course syllabus
The course is structured in three modules. Module 1. Production of heterologous proteins in prokaryotes, with particular focus on Escherichia coli as model organism. Genetic systems and strategies for cloning and optimization of protein expression. Biosensors and environmental biotechnologies making use of microrganisms. Metabolic Engineering as a tool for the study and for the improvement of industrial processes. Bioconversions processes, by wild type and genetically modified organisms for production of industrial relevant products.
Module 2. Main microrganisms of biotechnological interest and their applications: Bacillus, Lactobacilli, Saccharomyces and other yeasts, filamentous fungi. Production of antibiotics and other natural products with biological activity in Actinomycetes.
Module 3. Applications of microbial biotechnology in health and environment. Basic concepts in vaccinology. Basic concepts of environmental biotechnology: utilization of microrganisms as biosensors for polluting compounds.
Modules 1 and 2 constitute the "core" of the course and will be taught in their entirety. Module 3 might not be included or only some topics might be taught.
Module 2. Main microrganisms of biotechnological interest and their applications: Bacillus, Lactobacilli, Saccharomyces and other yeasts, filamentous fungi. Production of antibiotics and other natural products with biological activity in Actinomycetes.
Module 3. Applications of microbial biotechnology in health and environment. Basic concepts in vaccinology. Basic concepts of environmental biotechnology: utilization of microrganisms as biosensors for polluting compounds.
Modules 1 and 2 constitute the "core" of the course and will be taught in their entirety. Module 3 might not be included or only some topics might be taught.
Prerequisites for admission
Good basic knowledge of general microbiology, microbial genetics and molecular biology.
Teaching methods
Frontal lectures (5 ECDS)
Laboratory classes (1 ECDS)
Discussion of an example of the final exam
Laboratory classes (1 ECDS)
Discussion of an example of the final exam
Teaching Resources
Lecture ppt presentations are available on the instructor's Ariel website. As of today (May 2023) also the recordings of online lectures from academic year 2020-2021 are available.
The book "Biotecnologie microbiche (G. Marino e S. Donadio)"-only available in Italian- is useful to widen some of the lectures' subjects but does not cover every topic tackled in the course.
The book "Biotecnologie microbiche (G. Marino e S. Donadio)"-only available in Italian- is useful to widen some of the lectures' subjects but does not cover every topic tackled in the course.
Assessment methods and Criteria
Written exam. Two open questions: one question aimed at testing the knowledge of the subjects discussed in the lectures, another question aimed at testing the ability to apply the methodologies of eterologous protein production in Escherichia coli, as discussed both in Part 1 of the lectures and in the laboratory activities.
BIO/18 - GENETICS
BIO/19 - MICROBIOLOGY
BIO/19 - MICROBIOLOGY
Single bench laboratory practical: 16 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Lessons: 40 hours
Professors:
Landini Paolo, Rossi Elio
Educational website(s)
Professor(s)
Reception:
On appointment by e-mail
Via Celoria 26, Scientific buildings, 4th floor, Tower "B"
Reception:
Contact for an appointment
Online