Molecular Biotechnology for Cultural Heritage, Laboratory
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
The course teaches practical skills in applying key biomolecular techniques to the study, diagnosis, monitoring, and conservation of cultural heritage. Students will learn about non-invasive or micro-invasive sampling methods on various artistic materials, as well as omics and microscopic techniques, and how to interpret experimental data. Laboratory-scale biofilm model systems will also be introduced to assess biodeterioration and bioprotection processes, as well as innovative biorestoration methods.
Expected learning outcomes
At the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Critically assess analytical methods and biotechnological strategies, choosing the most appropriate approaches based on substrate properties, intervention goals, and the artwork's conservation condition.
- Interpret molecular data while considering the conservation issues of the artwork, formulate diagnostic hypotheses, and develop suitable intervention strategies.
- Critically assess analytical methods and biotechnological strategies, choosing the most appropriate approaches based on substrate properties, intervention goals, and the artwork's conservation condition.
- Interpret molecular data while considering the conservation issues of the artwork, formulate diagnostic hypotheses, and develop suitable intervention strategies.
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
Overview of molecular biotechnologies applied to cultural heritage. Laboratory safety regulations and best practices. Non-invasive and micro-invasive sampling techniques for a variety of artistic substrates (e.g., stone, wood, paper). Extraction and analysis of nucleic acids and proteins from cultural heritage materials. Amplification and sequencing methodologies, including metagenomic and transcriptomic approaches. Fundamental concepts of bioinformatic analysis of omics data. Use of optical and fluorescence microscopy to investigate microbial biofilms on artistic surfaces. Development and application of laboratory-scale models to simulate microbial biofilms on heritage materials. Biorestoration strategies involving selected microorganisms, such as bioconsolidation of stone and wood. Discussion, interpretation, and presentation of experimental results.
Prerequisites for admission
Basic knowledge of chemistry and microbiology is required for this course.
Teaching methods
The course includes a total of 48 hours (6 credits) of hands-on laboratory activities. Further details regarding the organization of the laboratory sessions will be shared in the first class.
The teaching activities include:
· Practical laboratory sessions, supported by theoretical explanations and materials;
· Guided experiments, with dedicated time for data analysis and discussion;
· Group discussions focused on case studies and methodological approaches;
· Individual and group in-depth work, with guidance from the professor and supporting materials.
All lecture materials will be accessible on the ARIEL website in PDF format.
The teaching activities include:
· Practical laboratory sessions, supported by theoretical explanations and materials;
· Guided experiments, with dedicated time for data analysis and discussion;
· Group discussions focused on case studies and methodological approaches;
· Individual and group in-depth work, with guidance from the professor and supporting materials.
All lecture materials will be accessible on the ARIEL website in PDF format.
Teaching Resources
All lecture materials will be accessible on the ARIEL website in PDF format.
Selected peer-reviewed articles from international scientific journals will be used to complement and deepen the class topics.
Selected peer-reviewed articles from international scientific journals will be used to complement and deepen the class topics.
Assessment methods and Criteria
· Report on Laboratory Activities (60%)
Each student must submit an individual scientific report on one or more topics covered in the course. The report should include the sections: introduction, objectives, materials and methods, results, critical data analysis, conclusions, and bibliography. Evaluation will focus on clarity and coherence, scientific rigor, accuracy in data interpretation, and correct use of technical terminology.
· Final Oral Examination (40%)
The oral exam, conducted individually or in small groups, will assess the student's critical understanding of the experimental techniques used, their ability to interpret and contextualize results, and their command of scientific and technical language.
The final grade will be awarded on a 30-point scale.
Each student must submit an individual scientific report on one or more topics covered in the course. The report should include the sections: introduction, objectives, materials and methods, results, critical data analysis, conclusions, and bibliography. Evaluation will focus on clarity and coherence, scientific rigor, accuracy in data interpretation, and correct use of technical terminology.
· Final Oral Examination (40%)
The oral exam, conducted individually or in small groups, will assess the student's critical understanding of the experimental techniques used, their ability to interpret and contextualize results, and their command of scientific and technical language.
The final grade will be awarded on a 30-point scale.
AGR/16 - AGRICULTURAL MICROBIOLOGY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours
Professor:
Villa Federica
Professor(s)