Ateneo - UPO

The course will focus on the molecular pathology of the primary solid tumors in oncology, with a special emphasis on topics relevant to the field of Medical Biotechnology. Throughout the course, self-assessment activities will be provided, along with supplementary materials for further study and group presentations on topics of particular interest.

The didactic material, including slides, provided by the Professor; scientific papers covered in class; and online public databases are all resources will be used in this course.

The aim of the course is to render the student able to know, interpret and analyse the main solid tumours topics of the course, that are relevant for a Medical Biotechnologist, with a critical attitude.

Advance knowledge of cell and molecular biology

A) Taught (frontal) classes with slide presentations available on the UPO DIR website (https://www.dir.uniupo.it/); B) Self-assessment tests after each class; C) Group presentations by the students on topics agreed upon with the professor

Participation in the self-assessment activitities after each class is strongly recommended

The Pathologic basis of diseases exam will be included as part of the integrated course exam. The Pathologic basis of diseases exam will consist of four statements, and candidates will be required to: i) indicate whether the statement is true or false; ii) provide a 5-10 line explanation justifying their choice, and a final oral test. Self-assessment tests will be available throughout the course to serve as examples for these exam questions.

A. General concepts of solid tumours in onclology: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
B. Colorectal cancer: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
C. Breast cancer: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
D. Prostate cancer: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
E. Lung cancer: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
F. Soft tissue sarcoma: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
G. Bone tissue sarcoma: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
H. Central nervous system (CNS) tumor: general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
I. Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL): general concepts, molecular pathology, molecular diagnostics and target treatment.
J. Liquid biopsy approaches to capture tumor evolution during cancer treatment.
K. Precision Medicine in oncology; Novel immunotherapy approaches in neoplastic disorders.
L. The role of clinical trials and Benefit Sharing in oncology

At the end of the course, students will be able to:
i) critically analyze the molecular pathology of various models of solid tumors;
ii) recognize the significance of molecular pathology in enhancing precision medicine, molecular diagnosis, and targeted treatment in solid neoplasms.