SCV0823 - TRANSGENIC ANIMALS FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY

insegnamento

ID:

SCV0823

Durata (ore):

52

CFU:

SSD:

ZOOCOLTURE

Anno:

2025

Periodo di attività

Secondo Semestre (24/02/2026 - 20/06/2026)

Obiettivi Formativi

This course offers students an in-depth understanding of the wide-ranging applications of biotechnology in livestock production, including the creation of genetically modified animals for diagnostic, therapeutic, and environmental purposes. Students will examine both traditional and cutting-edge biotechnological techniques aimed at improving product quality and obtaining bioactive compounds. Particular emphasis will be placed on genetic engineering approaches that integrate genes encoding pharmacologically active proteins into the DNA of farm animals. The course will also cover aspects related to the production and quality of animal-derived foods and their processed products. To reinforce theoretical concepts, the course includes field trips to production facilities and research centers, allowing students to observe real-world applications, gain practical insights, and interact with professionals working in the sector.

Prerequisiti

Basic knowledge of Animal Biology

Metodi didattici

The course consists of face-to-face lectures (5 ECTS), laboratory sessions (1 ECTS), and a field trip. Lectures are supported by PowerPoint presentations enriched with visual content, facilitating a more effective understanding of concepts, processes, and techniques through visual learning. Educational science videos complement the lectures, reinforcing key concepts and simplifying complex topics. Laboratory sessions are designed to provide active, hands-on learning experiences. During these sessions, students receive continuous supervision and guidance from the instructor and one or more teaching assistants to ensure both safety and effective learning. Wearing a lab coat is mandatory during all laboratory activities, and attendance is compulsory. Students with allergies or sensitivities to reagents or other substances used in the laboratory must inform the instructor prior to the start of the lab sessions.

Verifica Apprendimento

Learning outcomes are assessed through an oral examination designed to evaluate the student’s understanding and achievement of the expected competencies. The exam consists of three questions: • Two covering the theoretical content (worth 75% of the final grade); • One focused on laboratory activities, assessing comprehension of key practical techniques demonstrated during the sessions. Grading is based on a 30-point scale, taking into account: • Accuracy and depth of responses; • Clarity and coherence of communication; • Ability to justify statements and provide well-reasoned arguments. A minimum score of 18/30 is required to pass the exam.

Contenuti

Course Overview This course provides an in-depth exploration of key biotechnological innovations and their applications in animal production, with a strong focus on genetics, reproduction, and animal welfare. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of genetic engineering, transgenic animal models, and the critical role of biotechnology in medicine, agriculture, and sustainable practices. Course Structure: Lectures (5 ECTS, 40 hours) The lecture component is organized into the following thematic units: A) Introduction to Animal Biotechnology • Overview of biotechnology applications in animal production; • Fundamental morpho-physiological characteristics of farm animals; • Physiology and endocrinology of reproduction. B) Genetic Engineering in Farm Animals 1. Transgenic Animals: Production and Applications: o Pigs as models for human disease research, organ transplantation, and environmental protection; o Cattle for increased meat production, resistance to staphylococcal infections, and reduced allergenicity of milk proteins; o Teleost fish as models for cancer research. 2. Biopharming: The Mammary Gland as a Bioreactor: o Cattle producing therapeutic proteins in milk for human consumption; o Sheep and goats producing antimicrobial proteins for medical applications. 3. Recombinant Spider Silk Production: o Transgenic goats synthesizing spider silk proteins in milk for medical and industrial purposes. C) Animal Welfare: Current Practices and Future Perspectives • Methods for evaluating and ensuring animal welfare; • Ethical considerations and sustainability challenges; D) Gut Microbiota and Animal Health: • The role of gut microbiota in animal health, productivity, and immunity; • Microbiome management strategies to enhance welfare and disease resistance. Laboratory Practicals (1 ECTS, 12 hours) Students will aquire hands-on experience in key laboratory techniques, including: 1. Gut Microbiota Analysis (0.25 ECTS, 3 hours): o Extraction of bacterial DNA for intestinal microbiota studies. 2. Gene Expression Analysis (0.25 ECTS, 3 hours): o Extraction of total RNA from animal tissue; o Assessment of RNA integrity and concentration; o Real-time PCR for quantification of gene transcripts. 3. DNA Fingerprinting (0.5 ECTS, 6 hours) o Part 1: Genomic DNA extraction, quantification, and purity evaluation; o Part 2: Microsatellite DNA amplification via PCR, followed by data analysis. Field Trip The course includes an educational visit to an international center of excellence in biotechnology, focusing on applications in the food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries.

Lingua Insegnamento

Inglese

Altre informazioni

To avoid delays, students should schedule appointments for consultations via email using their @uninsubria.it address. The professor is also available for brief meetings immediately after each lecture.