Ateneo - UPO

Cellular biology and morphological characteristics of fungi, fungal taxonomy and systematics, fungal ecology, impact of fungi on human, animal, and plant health, fungal genomics.

Deacon, J. W. (2013). Fungal biology. John Wiley & Sons.

Webster, J., & Weber, R. (2007). Introduction to fungi. Cambridge university press.

Deacon, J. W., & Locci, R. (2000). Micologia moderna. Calderini edagricole.

Understand the biology, ecology, and evolution of fungi, including their life cycles, cellular structures, and reproductive systems.
Learn the tools to identify fungal species based on morphological characteristics, habitats, and molecular analysis methods.
Study the role of fungi in ecosystems, including their impacts on decomposition, nutrient cycling, and as symbionts in relationships with plants and animals, including humans.
Understand how fungi affect human health, agriculture, and industry, including both positive and negative impacts.
Acquire technical skills in the cultivation and analysis of fungi, also through molecular biology approaches.

Cell biology, organic chemistry

12 lectures, each lasting 4 hours

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.

Oral exam

verview of Mycology and Fungal Cell Structure. Fugal cell wall. Differentiation, Reproduction, and Modes of Nutrition. Metabolic Pathways and Fungal Taxonomy. Fungal Systematics.
Fungal Pathogens in Plants and Humans.
Wood-Degrading Fungi and Fungi-Plant Interactions.
Lichens and Endophytes.
Fungi in Food Production and Medicinal Uses.
Fungal Enzymes and Industrial Applications.
Fungal Genomics and Fungal Hybrids.
Metagenomics and Fungal Biodiversity.
Extremophilic Fungi, Secondary Metabolites, and Climate Impacts.

Have a solid understanding of the classification, biology, and ecology of fungi. Know the different types of fungi, their life cycles, and their ecological functions.
Understand the critical role of fungi in ecosystems as decomposers, pathogens, or symbionts. Analyze the ecological impacts of fungi and their role in maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Be familiar with fungal cultivation techniques in the laboratory and controlled environments. Know molecular biology techniques to study fungi at the genetic level.
Be familiar with the importance of fungi for human health, agriculture, and the pharmaceutical and food industries. Develop critical thinking skills to analyze scientific literature and experimental data.