Cell biology and technology

General outcome The main objective of this course is to provide the student knowledge on the molecular, cellular and evolutionary aspects of plant immunity, and on similarities and differences with the immune mechanisms of animals. The student will also acquire knowledge on the molecular basis of communication (recognition, elicitation, responses) between plants and microorganisms, both pathogenic and beneficial, and the mechanisms of control of the immune response that are the basis of pathogenicity and symbiosis. Finally, during the course the student will understand how the knowledge acquired in the study of plant-microorganism interactions is the foundation for the development of biotechnological approaches. The course also aims to provide students with the ability to use bibliographic resources and to clearly present complex scientific contents related to the aspects covered by the program. Specific outcomes A. Knowledge and understanding - Specific language and terminology. - The mechanisms that form the innate immune system of plants - Similarities and differences between the plant and animal immune systems. - The elements, processes and mechanisms of molecular and cellular regulation relevant in the interactions between plants and microbes (pathogenic and beneficial). - The dynamics of coevolution between plants and microbes. - The main methods of study adopted in these subjects. - The socio-economic problems related to issues in this specific field and object of classical and innovative biotechnological strategies. B. Applying knowledge and understanding - Ability to use specific terminology - Ability to outline the appropriate conceptual and methodological paths to address problems and questions in the field of plant-microbe interactions. - Ability to use bibliographic resources, software and biological resources available through the Web to address and interpret specific problems related to the aspects object of this course. C. Making judgements - Critical judgment skills, through the study of reviews and scientific articles on key aspects and through in-depth collective discussions; - Ability to evaluate correctness and scientific rigor through analysis and collective discussion of the experimental and methodological part of recent high quality scientific articles. D. Communication skills - Acquisition of adequate skills and tools useful for communication, through the use of graphic and formal languages, with particular regard to scientific language, through discussions and seminars that are an integral part of the oral exam. E. Learning skills The student will possess: - the ability to set up an independent and flexible study method, which allows to conduct personal research and analysis and to continue effectively the advancement of knowledge. - the ability to identify problematic, unresolved and innovative aspects in biological issues - the ability to find and use cognitive tools for the continuous updating of knowledge - the ability to compare oneself for the progress, consolidation and improvement of one's own knowledge. Results Possession of the fundamental contents of the specific discipline, and the ability to master the procedures and methods of their own investigation, also to orientate and operate in the field of applied sciences.