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AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST GENETICS
ELENA BITOCCHI

Seat Agraria
A.A. A.A. 2016-2017
Credits 6
Hours 54
Period 1^ semestre
Language ENG
U-gov code SFA 3A480

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of plant biology and general and organic chemistry.

Development of the course

The teaching method used to enhance and optimise student learning implies classroom lectures (Power Point presentations that will be provided to students), laboratory practical classes, seminars and visits to national research institutes (6CFU). In parallel, an e-learning version of the course using the Moodle platform will be available, including  teaching materials organised in learning units, self-evaluation tests and results, information and booking for seminars and visits.

 

Learning outcomes

Knowledge. The course provides the acquisition of the basics of molecular and Mendelian genetics and the organization of genetic material, the gene structure, the genetic control of characters, the processes that regulate gene interactions and their heritability to be used for the management of agricultural and forest genetic resources.

 

Applying knowledge and understanding. The aim of the course is to provide a basic information on general genetics and molecular biology, for the understanding of the main features of heredity in order to ensure a proper management, conservation and valorization of agricultural and forest genetic resources, also considering the most recent innovative molecular technologies.

 

Cross-expertise. (i) Acquisition of skills related to the analysis of genetic data and useful knowledge for the management of agricultural and forest genetic resources even on the basis of modern molecular technologies; (ii) capability of clearly and exhaustively communicate notions, ideas, problems and technical solutions to interlocutors, either professional or not, involved in the management, conservation and valorization of agricultural and forest genetic resources.

 

Program

Organization of living organisms, heritability and variability. Relationship between genetic material and phenotypic traits. The genetic code - Organization and transmission of genetic material (2 ECTS, 18 hours).

Mendelian genetics- Segregation and recombination. Genetic interactions: epistasis, complementary gene action, pleiotropy, penetrance and expressivity - Multiple alleles (2 ECTS, 18 hours).

Genetic Linkage and Genetic Maps. Heredity and Sex. Mobile genetic elements and mutations

Molecular genetics . Extrachromosomal inheritance. (2 ECTS, 18 hours).

 

Practical lessons (laboratory activities)

-  DNA extraction from plant tissues.

-  Exercise of formal genetics.

-  Segregation analysis of F2 progenies derived from plant species of agricultural interest.

-  Genetics maps.

Development of the examination

Learning evaluation methods

Final assessment will consist of a written test and an oral discussion on of the subjects listed in the teaching program. During the course, there are also going to be available self-evaluation tests (e-learning mode), in order to provide the students useful information about their skill level.

 

Learning evaluation criteria

In the written test the student will have to show: a) knowledge of biochemistry and organization of the genetic material and the hereditabilty of the traits; b) understanding of the principles of Mendelian genetics; c) construction of genetic maps. To pass the oral exam, the student must demonstrate an overall understanding of the contents, set out sufficiently corrected by using appropriate scientific terminology, and to be able to deal with deductive reasoning in order to implement appropriate connections within the subject.

 

Learning measurement criteria

The final mark is attributed in thirtieths. Successful completion of the examination will lead to grades ranging from 18 to 30 “cum laude”.

 

Final mark allocation criteria

The written test consists of ten exercises concerning the subjects listed in the teaching program, each of ones will be quantified in the range 0 - 3. The final grade will be awarded after the interview. The degree of 30 “cum laude” is attributed when the student demonstrates complete mastery of the subject.

Recommended reading

GENETICA AGRARIA. Genetica e biotecnologie per l'agricoltura. di Franco Lorenzetti, Salvatore Ceccarelli, Daniele Rosellini.  PATRON 2011

Barcaccia G., Falcinelli M. Genetica e Genomica Volume I Genetica generale. LIGURI EDITORE

 

 

Tutorial session

 

Thursday from 14 pm to 16 pm.

 

Courses

• C.L.T. - Scienze Forestali ed Ambientali (SFA)