Ateneo - UPO

The course aims to teach the molecular mechanisms of gene expression. To study coding RNA and long non-coding RNA molecules and their mechanisms in different biological cellular processes. Approaches to gene therapy based on RNA interference and the use of small molecules (siRNA and miRNA) to inhibit protein synthesis. Genome editing and application of CRISP-Cas9 technology to modify the genome and as a possible therapeutic approach for various diseases.

No textbook. Students will study on the scientific papers discussed during the classes and made available from the professor.

The aim of this course is to learn most recent data on non-coding elements in the genome and in mammalian transcriptome. Specifically, the course will focus on long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) their structure and functions. Moreover, the students will know about antisense transcription, its main features and its function in the cell. Examples will be provided on possible therapeutic applications of lncRNAs. An additional aim of the course is the discussion of a recent published paper focusing on lncRNA and its function. Experimental details will be discussed.

The students must have a solid background in Molecular Biology, Genetics and Cell Biology

Students will receive a copy of the PDF files of the scientific papers discussed during the course and will be subject to examination discussion.
Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities.
Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

The specific bibliographic search of certain lncRNAs aims to identify not only the possible functions performed by them, but also to identify new possible therapeutic applications in the field of medicine to block the activity of pathogenic lncRNAs.

The exam will be written with multiple choice questions (24, worth one point each, divided in 11 "Genomic analysis", 11 "Regulation of gene expression" and 2 "Genetics") and open questions (3, worth 3 points each).

Complexity of the human genome and role of non-coding elements in contributing to genome complexity.
Definition of mammalian transcriptome and history of the discovery of lncRNAs
Features of lncRNAs in comparison with those of protein-coding mRNAs
Description of the experimental procedures used to discover lncRNA features
Antisense transcription
Description of lncRNA functions
Therapeutic applications of lncRNAs: present and future prospects
Seminar-type discussion on a newly discovered lncRNA: features and function (experimental details will also be discussed).

At the end of the course, the student will have an adequate knowledge of the transcriptional mechanisms based on RNAs coding and not for proteins. The pathogenic role of small non-coding RNA molecules, such as siRNA, miRNA and lncRNA, their mechanisms of action and the possibility of intervening by blocking their function.