MEDICAL GENETICS
Learning outcomes of the course unit
After completing the course the student will be able to know and understand:
- The kinetic mechanisms of nucleic acids as a general basis of molecular diagnostics
- The methods of investigation of the human genome
- The choice of the method to use in relation to the diagnostic needs
By applying this knowledge critically acquired, the student will be able to:
- Use the most common molecular analysis methods
- Use basic bioinformatic programs with open access
- Critically evaluate the options when choosing a method of investigation
- Set up a working protocol
Course contents summary
The course aims to apply the knowledge gained in previous years to the analysis of the human genome, using a set of methods that the student should know in order to understand the potential, in relation to the applications that will be used in the profession.
Course contents
Molecular analysis of nucleic acids. Extraction of nucleic acids. Electrophoresis of nucleic acids. Nucleic acid hybridization. Blotting. PCR: the principle of the method and its applications. Real Time PCR and its applications. High Resolution Melting (HRM). Methods to search known mutations in the DNA (RFLP, ASO, ARMS, OLA, etc.). Methods for the detection of unknown mutations in the DNA. Traditional sequencing, pyrosequencing and next-generation sequencing (NGS).
Molecular cytogenetics: FISH, array-CGH, SNP-array.
Teaching methods
Lectures supplemented by attendance in the laboratory, to train the student to the application of the learned concepts.
Assessment methods and criteria
The examination includes the assessment of the achievement of the objectives of the course through a written test with open-ended questions aimed to verify the knowledge and understanding of the content of the course.
