Academic year: 2024-25
Course: Foundation Course Science
Credits: 6
Period: first and second semester
Number of hours: 48
Teacher(s): Stefano Landi (stefano.landi@unipi.it); Cosmeri Anna Rizzato (cosmeri.rizzato@unipi.it)
Language of instruction: English
Syllabus
1. Chemical composition of living organisms
Basic chemistry: Atom and molecules. Types of bonds. The importance of carbon. The water and its properties. Biological molecules: proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates.
2. The cell
Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Cell membranes and organelles: structure and function.
3. Genetic code, cell division, reproduction and inheritance
DNA and genes. Genetic code. Transcription. Protein synthesis. Mitosis and meiosis. Mendelian genetics. Reproduction in animals. Viruses.
4. Basis of anatomy and physiology of animals
Tissues, organs and systems in animals. Embryology. Circulatory system. Respiratory system. Digestive system. Excretory system. Nervous system. Immune system
5. Elements of biochemistry
Energy flow and biological significance of photosynthesis, glycolysis, fermentation and aerobic respiration. The importance of ATP. Autotrophic and heterotrophic metabolism.
Bibliography
An open access Book is made available by OpenStax at the URL:
https://openstax.org/details/books/biology-2e