Microbiological Techniques

' Lectures Isolation, selection and survey of microorganisms from heterogeneous matrices. Taxonomic identification of bacteria: phenotypic and genotypic characteristics. Planning and choise of experimental analyses for phenotypic and genotypic identification. Genetic organization in bacteria. The measurable characteristics of plasmidic and chromosomal DNA. The concepts of molecular genetics and their application in both basic and applied biotechnology (with particular regard to techniques that allow precise detection and amplification of DNA through the polymerase chain reaction or PCR) ' Laboratory exercises Culture media preparation. Use of autoclaves and filters for the sterilization of media and materials. Isolation techniques. Measurement of bacterial growth. Obtainment of pure cultures. Planning and carrying out of phenotypic analyses for bacterial identification and characterization. Extraction of chromosomal and plasmidic DNA and their study: separation and visualization through gel electrophoresis techniques; % GC evaluation, determination of % of genetic homology