67132 - Microbial Biotechnologies

Learning outcomes

Aim of the course is the knowledge of microbial ecosystems, of the main traditional and molecular techniques for microbial analysis, including -omics technologies, and of the main tests for control. The experimental methods will be acquired through lab exercises.

Course contents

Analysis of microbial communities by culture-dependent methods.

Analysis of microbial communities by culture-independent molecular methods.

Biotechnology, fermentation and microbial metabolism.

Selection, screening and genetic improvement of industrial microorganisms.

Industrial fermentation processes: batch, fed-batch and repeated fed-batch processes.

Industrial fermentation processes: continuous and continuous processes with recycling. 

Microbial bioconversions using enzymes and immobilized cells.

Industrial applications.

Microbes and microbiomes for bioremediation.

Sterilization: principles and methods.

Laboratory: microscopy, isolation and identification of microorganisms from environmental samples, extraction of genomic DNA from a bacterial culture, amplification, sequence analysis by comparison with databases, analysis of microbial communities.

Readings/Bibliography

Slides and notes taken during the lessons are essential for exam preparation. As a reference, the student can deepen the topics on the following texts:

Biotecnologie Microbiche. Stefano Donadio, Gennaro Marino. Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.

Microbiologia Sistematica, Ambientale ed Industriale. Prescott (2). McGraw-Hill.

Microbiologia Industriale. Matilde Manzoni. Casa Editrice Ambrosiana.

LABORATORY NOTES with the operational description of the experiences.

Teaching methods

The course consists of 6 CFU of which 4 CFU of lectures with the support of explanatory slides, and 2 CFU of laboratory exercises.

As concerns the teaching methods of this course unit, all students (including all the international incoming exchange students, i.e. ERASMUS) must attend Module 1, 2 online [https://www.unibo.it/it/servizi-e-opportunita/salute-e-assistenza/salute-e-sicurezza/sicurezza-e-salute-nei-luoghi-di-studio-e-tirocinio], while Module 3 on health and safety is to be attended in class. Information about Module 3 attendance schedule is available on the website of your degree programme ("studiare"--"formazione obbligatoria su sicurezza e salute").

Assessment methods

The assessment will be based on an oral examination consisting of a number of questions relating to both the theoretical part and the practical laboratory part. At the end of the laboratory sessions, there will be a multiple choice test, the result of which will form part of the final grade.

Teaching tools

PC, projector, laboratory experiences.

Office hours

See the website of Silvia Turroni