To acquire knowledge on the structure, function and regulation of biological macromolecules. To acquire knowledge of the general mechanisms of regulation of metabolism. To acquire knowledge of the main metabolic pathways and cycles with particular regard to carbohydrate, lipid and amino acid metabolism. Understanding the significance of metabolic alterations in non-physiological conditions (prolonged fasting, physical effort).
To acquire learn basic knowledge on fundamental processes of molecular biology and their regulation, necessary to understand:
• The pathogenic mechanisms of diseases
• Molecular mechanisms involved in the therapeutic intervention
• Biotechnology applications of medical relevance, including the principal methods for the study of nucleic acids and of their application for diagnostic and research purpose.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Knowledge and understanding
At the end of this teaching, the student will acquire:
• Knowledge of the structure and function of the main biological macromolecules
• Knowledge of the principles of enzymatic catalysis
• Knowledge of the different metabolic cycles that occur in eukaryotic cells
• Knowledge of the role of different "fuels" in energy production
• Knowledge of the role of the mitochondrion as the power plant of the cell and the basis of mitochondrial dysfunction
• Knowledge of the biosynthetic pathways of the main molecules of biochemical interest
• Knowledge of the molecular basis of biological processes of eucariotic cells and microorganisms.
• Knowledge of the molecular regulation mechanisms of genome replication and expression
• Knowledge of the structure and function of nucleic acids and proteins
• Knowledge of the fundamental molecular techniques and applications for diagnostic and study purpose

Applying knowledge and understanding
At the end of this teaching, the student will be able to:
• Adequately interpret the importance of biochemical processes alterations, as a cause of various pathological conditions.
• Use the acquired knowledge for an in-depth study of aspects related to his future professional activity
• Understand the molecular basis of human diseases
• Understand medical approaches to molecular medicine and translational research.
• Understand application of molecular techniques for diagnostic purpose

Communication skills
At the end of this teaching, the student will be expected to:
• Communicate scientific contents in a clear and unambiguous way, using appropriate technical language

Making judgments
At the end of this teaching, the student will be able to:
• Carry out assessments of the topics covered.
• Autonomously interpret the data pertaining the topics covered by the course

Learning skills
at the end of the integrated teaching, the student will acquire skills useful to deepen and expand their knowledge in the field of the course, also through the consultation of scientific literature, databases, specialized websites.