Requirements:
No formal prerequisites are required. However, a basic background in plant biology, genetics, and agronomy is strongly recommended.
Learning outcome:
The course provides knowledge and skills in basic genetics and crop breeding, using both traditional and innovative technologies. By the end, students will be able to discuss strategies for developing improved crop varieties and assess breeding approaches to enhance the environmental sustainability of agricultural production.
Content:
Exploitation and Enhancement of Plant Genetic Variability
Principles of meiosis and its genetic consequences; mechanisms affecting reproduction and variation (male sterility, self-incompatibility, apomixis); use of plant genetic resources; strategies to broaden variability through interspecific hybridization, in vitro culture, somatic hybridization, polyploidization, and haploidization.
Classical Crop Breeding Strategies
Genetic and statistical principles for the selection of Mendelian and quantitative traits; estimation of selection gain; breeding methods for self-pollinated, cross-pollinated, and vegetatively propagated crops; application of marker-assisted selection in breeding programs.
Innovative Plant Breeding Strategies
Modern genomic and biotechnological approaches for crop improvement, including gene cloning, vectors, genetic transformation, cisgenesis, gene silencing, and genome editing; breeding strategies for biotic and abiotic stress tolerance; improvement of crop and food quality traits.
Assessment:
Written exam consisting of multiple-choice questions and open-ended questions.
Teaching Methods:
Lectures, seminars, project-based learning
Course Materials:
– Plants, Genes, and Agriculture: Sustainability through Biotechnology. Edited by Maarten J. Chrispeels and Paul Gepts. Oxford Press (ISBN: 9781605356846)
– Lecture notes and teaching material distributed in class
