BIOLOGY
- Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
- Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure, shape and function).
- Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the eukaryotic cell: cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular parasites.
- Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes. Notes on peroxisomes.
- Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
- Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
- Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview on DNA repair.
- RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
- RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
- Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological implications.
- Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis. Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways.
- Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences). Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments. Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive and regulated exocytosis.
- Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
- Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
- Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
- Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins. Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular switches.
- Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases. Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
- Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations underlying tumors.

READING MATERIALS
The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs. Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.


• “Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
• “Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.

Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure,
shape and function).
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the
eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular
parasites.
Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of
membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small
molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active
transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular
membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.
Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as
generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic
theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate
filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine
the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The
molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin
condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as
genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview
on DNA repair.
RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and
eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological
implications.
Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis.
Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences).
Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments.
Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.
Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional
organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin
condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of
post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences
between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a
source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy
and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular
organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein
coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular
switches.
Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along
the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular
signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases.
Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations
underlying tumors.

The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However
students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs.
Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.
• “Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
• “Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
• “Medical Genetics”, Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevie

- Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.

- Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure, shape and function).

- Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as endocellular parasites.

- Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport). The basis of membrane excitability.

- Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.

- Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.

- Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.

- Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin condensation, chromosomes.

- Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase.
Mechanisms of DNA repair, correlations with human pathologies.

- RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell. RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.

- Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological implications.

- Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis. Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathway.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences). Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.

- Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments. Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.

- Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code. Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of post-transcriptional and post-translational control.

- Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.

- Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular switches.

- Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases. Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.

- Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations underlying tumors.

- Mobile genetic elements and genome evolution. The nature of transposable elements. Mechanisms of transposition and genomic evolution.

• Molecular Biology of the Cell”, VI edition, Bruce Alberts et al., WW Norton & Co.
• “Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
• “Medical Genetics” by Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

BIOLOGY
Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure,
shape and function).
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the
eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular
parasites.
Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of
membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small
molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active
transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular
membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.
Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as
generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic
theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate
filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine
the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The
molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin
condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as
genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview
on DNA repair.
RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
8Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and
eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological
implications.
Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis.
Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences).
Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments.
Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.
Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional
organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin
condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of
post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences
between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a
source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy
and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular
organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein
coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular
switches.
Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along
the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular
signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases.
Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations
underlying tumors.

The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However
students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs.
Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.

“Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Medical Genetics”, Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

BIOLOGY
- Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
- Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure, shape and function).
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular parasites.
- Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes. Notes on peroxisomes.
- Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
- Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
- Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview on DNA repair.
- RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell. RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
- Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological implications.
- Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis. Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways. Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences). Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
- Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments. Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive and regulated exocytosis.
- Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code. Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
- Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
- Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins. Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular switches.
- Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases. Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
- Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations underlying tumors.

READING MATERIALS
The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs. Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.

• “Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
• “Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.

Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure, shape and function).
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as endocellular parasites.
Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes. Notes on peroxisomes.
Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Mechanisms of DNA repair, correlations with human pathologies.
RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological implications.
Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis. Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathway.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences). Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments. Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive and regulated exocytosis.
Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular switches.
Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases.
Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations underlying tumors.

“Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Medical Genetics” by Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

- Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.

- Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure, shape and function).

- Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as endocellular parasites.

- Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport). The basis of membrane excitability.

- Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.

- Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.

- Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.

- Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin condensation, chromosomes.

- Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase.
Mechanisms of DNA repair, correlations with human pathologies.

- RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell. RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.

- Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological implications.

- Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis. Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathway.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences). Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.

- Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments. Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.

- Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code. Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of post-transcriptional and post-translational control.

- Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.

- Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular switches.

- Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases. Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.

- Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations underlying tumors.

- Mobile genetic elements and genome evolution. The nature of transposable elements. Mechanisms of transposition and genomic evolution.

• Molecular Biology of the Cell”, VI edition, Bruce Alberts et al., WW Norton & Co.
• “Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
• “Medical Genetics” by Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

BIOLOGY
Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure,
shape and function).
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the
eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular
parasites.
Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of
membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small
molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active
transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular
membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.
Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as
generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic
theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate
filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine
the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The
molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin
condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as
genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview
on DNA repair.
RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
8Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and
eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological
implications.
Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis.
Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences).
Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments.
Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.
Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional
organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin
condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of
post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences
between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a
source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy
and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular
organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein
coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular
switches.
Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along
the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular
signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases.
Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations
underlying tumors.
MEDICAL GENETICS
Basic Genetics: Definitions of Key Terms: gene, locus, allele, genotype, phenotype, homozygous,
heterozygous, haploid, diploid, dominance, recessivity, codominance, mutation, polymorphism.
Principles of Genetic Transmission: Mendel's Genetic Hypothesis, The Monohybrid and Dihybrid
Crosses, Segregation in Human Pedigrees, Blood groups Genetics
Monogenic Inheritance Models: Autosomal inheritance, Autosomal recessive inheritance, X-linked
inheritance
Genetic Risk calculation and pedigrees analyses.
Population Genetics: Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and theoretical implications for understanding
the mechanisms of biological evolution.
Chromosomes: Structure and Analysis, Chromosomes Pathologies.
X-chromosome inactivation
9Mitochondrial inheritance: mitochondrial DNA, pattern of inheritance
Multifactorial Inheritance and Common Diseases: polimorphisms, susceptibility genes, gene
environment interaction, association studies.

The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However
students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs.
Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.

“Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Medical Genetics”, Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

BIOLOGY
- Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
- Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure,
shape and function).
- Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the
eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular
parasites.
- Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of
membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small
molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active
transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
- Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular
membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.
- Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as
generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic
theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
- Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate
filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine
the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The
molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
- Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin
condensation, chromosomes.
- Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as
genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview
on DNA repair.
- RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
- Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and
eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological
implications.
- Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis.
Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences).
Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
- Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments.
Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.
- Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional
organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin
condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of
post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
- Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences
between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a
source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy
and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
- Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular
organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein
coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular
switches.
- Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along
the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular
signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases.
Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
- Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations
underlying tumors.

READING MATERIALS
The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs. Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.

• “Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
• “Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.

BIOLOGY
Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure,
shape and function).
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the
eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular
parasites.
Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of
membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small
molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active
transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular
membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.
Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as
generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic
theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate
filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine
the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The
molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin
condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as
genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview
on DNA repair.
RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
8Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and
eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological
implications.
Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis.
Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences).
Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments.
Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.
Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional
organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin
condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of
post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences
between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a
source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy
and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular
organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein
coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular
switches.
Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along
the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular
signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases.
Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations
underlying tumors.

The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However
students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs.
Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.

"Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Medical Genetics”, Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

BIOLOGY
Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure,
shape and function).
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the
eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular
parasites.
Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of
membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small
molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active
transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular
membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.
Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as
generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic
theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate
filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine
the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The
molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin
condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as
genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview
on DNA repair.
RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
8Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and
eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological
implications.
Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis.
Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences).
Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments.
Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.
Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional
organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin
condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of
post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences
between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a
source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy
and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular
organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein
coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular
switches.
Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along
the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular
signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases.
Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations
underlying tumors.

The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However
students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs.
Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.

“Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Medical Genetics”, Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

BIOLOGY
Characteristics of living organisms. Cell theory, the cell as a structural and functional unit of life.
Chemistry of life: Macromolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids (structure,
shape and function).
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: classification and main structural differences. Organization of the
eukaryotic cell. Cellular organelles (structure and function). Notes on viruses as intracellular
parasites.
Plasma membrane. The fluid-mosaic model of the cell plasma membrane. Main functions of
membrane proteins and their topological organization in the lipid bilayer. Modes of ions and small
molecules transport across the plasma membrane (simple diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active
transport). The basis of membrane excitability.
Compartmentalization in the eukaryotic cell. The cytoplasm and the system of endocellular
membranes: structure and function of endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes.
Notes on peroxisomes.
Mitochondria and chloroplasts. Structure and function of mitochondria and chloroplasts as
generators of energy. Notes on glycolysis, fermentation and cellular respiration. The endosymbiotic
theory of the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Cytoskeleton, adhesion and cell motility. The cytoskeleton. Structure and function of intermediate
filaments, microtubules, and actin filaments. Molecular motors. Cellular structures that determine
the shape, polarity, and motility of the cell. Interactions between cells and their environment. The
molecules adhesion molecules and the extracellular matrix.
Nuclear compartment. Nuclear envelope, nucleolus, organization and different levels of chromatin
condensation, chromosomes.
Molecular bases of hereditary information. DNA structure and function. Identification of DNA as
genetic material. Molecular mechanism of DNA duplication. Telomeres and Telomerase. Overview
on DNA repair.
RNA structure and function. Main types of RNA present in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell.
RNA Transcription and RNA processing in eukaryotic cells, with particular attention to the
maturation of the messenger RNAs. Role of non-coding RNAs.
8Protein synthesis. Ribosomes: structure and biological role, differences between prokaryotic and
eukaryotic ribosomes. Properties of the genetic code, general features of translation and biological
implications.
Post-synthetic fate of proteins. Post-translational modifications and fate of proteins after synthesis.
Signals and mechanisms of protein sorting to organelles and secretory pathways.
Functions of the endoplasmic reticulum in the protein sorting (signal and stop sequences).
Endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus role in protein glycosylation.
Vesicle trafficking. Modes of protein transport between different cellular compartments.
Endocytosis (pinocytosis, phagocytosis, receptor-mediated endocytosis); autophagy; Constitutive
and regulated exocytosis.
Control of gene expression. Molecular mechanisms that create specialized cell types. Functional
organization of the eukaryotic genome. Histone code.
Control at the transcriptional level in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Role of chromatin
condensation state and degree of DNA methylation (epigenetic modifications). Main strategies of
post-transcriptional and post-translational control.
Mitosis and Meiosis. Principles of chromosome dynamics during mitosis and meiosis, differences
between the two processes. Genetic consequences of meiosis, the importance of meiosis as a
source of genetic variability. Molecular mechanisms of genetic recombination. Concept of haploidy
and diploidy. Homologous chromosomes. Characteristics of sexual and asexual reproduction.
Cellular communication and signal transduction. Communication between cells in multicellular
organisms. General principles of cell signaling, chemical signals and receptor proteins.
Mechanisms of signal transduction and main signaling pathways. Nuclear receptors, G-protein
coupled receptors, Enzyme-coupled receptors. Second messengers. Protein kinases and molecular
switches.
Cell Cycle, mechanisms of cell death. Cell cycle, phases of the cycle and control of progression along
the cell cycle as a result of the interaction between intracellular mechanisms and extracellular
signals. The role of cyclin-dependent kinases.
Basic knowledge of the processes of apoptosis, necrosis and autophagy.
Molecular basis of cancer. Molecular mechanisms of tumor transformation. Characteristics
of the neoplastic cell. Tumor suppressors and proto-oncogenes. Genetic and epigenetic alterations
underlying tumors.

The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However
students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs.
Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.

“Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Medical Genetics”, Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

- Basic Genetics: Definitions of Key Terms: gene, locus, allele, genotype, phenotype, haplotype, homozygous, heterozygous, haploid, diploid, dominance, recessivity, codominance, mutation, polymorphism.

-Principles of Genetic Transmission: Mendel's Genetic Hypothesis, The Monohybrid and Dihybrid Crosses, Segregation in Human Pedigrees, Blood groups Genetics

-Monogenic Inheritance Models: Autosomal inheritance, Autosomal recessive inheritance, X-linked inheritance

-Genetic Risk calculation and pedigrees analyses.

-Population Genetics: Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and theoretical implications for understanding the mechanisms of biological evolution.

-Chromosomes: Structure and Analysis, Chromosomes Pathologies. Genomic Imprinting.

- X-chromosome inactivation

-Mitochondrial inheritance: mitochondrial DNA, pattern of inheritance

-Multifactorial Inheritance and Common Diseases: polimorphisms, susceptibility genes, gene environment interaction, association studies.

• “Medical Genetics” by Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

- Basic Genetics: Definitions of Key Terms: gene, locus, allele, genotype, phenotype, haplotype, homozygous, heterozygous, haploid, diploid, dominance, recessivity, codominance, mutation, polymorphism.

-Principles of Genetic Transmission: Mendel's Genetic Hypothesis, The Monohybrid and Dihybrid Crosses, Segregation in Human Pedigrees, Blood groups Genetics

-Monogenic Inheritance Models: Autosomal inheritance, Autosomal recessive inheritance, X-linked inheritance

-Genetic Risk calculation and pedigrees analyses.

-Population Genetics: Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and theoretical implications for understanding the mechanisms of biological evolution.

-Chromosomes: Structure and Analysis, Chromosomes Pathologies. Genomic Imprinting.

- X-chromosome inactivation

-Mitochondrial inheritance: mitochondrial DNA, pattern of inheritance

-Multifactorial Inheritance and Common Diseases: polimorphisms, susceptibility genes, gene environment interaction, association studies.

-Pharmacogenomics and Personalised Medicine Genetic tests and Counselling. Outlines

• Molecular Biology of the Cell”, VI edition, Bruce Alberts et al., WW Norton & Co.
• “Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
• “Medical Genetics” by Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier

Basic Genetics: Definitions of Key Terms: gene, locus, allele, genotype, phenotype, homozygous,
heterozygous, haploid, diploid, dominance, recessivity, codominance, mutation, polymorphism.
Principles of Genetic Transmission: Mendel's Genetic Hypothesis, The Monohybrid and Dihybrid
Crosses, Segregation in Human Pedigrees, Blood groups Genetics
Monogenic Inheritance Models: Autosomal inheritance, Autosomal recessive inheritance, X-linked
inheritance
Genetic Risk calculation and pedigrees analyses.
Population Genetics: Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and theoretical implications for understanding
the mechanisms of biological evolution.
Chromosomes: Structure and Analysis, Chromosomes Pathologies.
X-chromosome inactivation
9Mitochondrial inheritance: mitochondrial DNA, pattern of inheritance
Multifactorial Inheritance and Common Diseases: polimorphisms, susceptibility genes, gene
environment interaction, association studies.

The recommended textbooks should be considered as reference teaching material. However
students may choose the text(s) they prefer or deem most suitable for their learning needs.
Additional material will be provided by the lecturer.

“Molecular Biology of the Cell”, Bruce Alberts et al., VII ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Essential Cell Biology”, Bruce Alberts et al. V ed., WW Norton & Co.
“Medical Genetics”, Lynn Jorde, John Carey, Michael Bamshad. Edited by Elsevier