Applied Biology to Animal Cell
The course provides the basis for understanding the animal physiology, starting from the study of morphology and cell physiology to the essential functions of animal organisms. The course focuses to the study of the cell as a functional unit of living, providing a detailed view of subcellular structures and their role in metabolism and cell-cell interactions.
The main cellular functions, such as: the flow of genetic information; basic metabolic cycles; proliferation, differentiation and cell death; synthesis, sorting and degradation of proteins; intercellular cross-talk; motility and fertilization will be addressed. The pluricellular organization, tissues and the main physiological functions of animal organisms will be studied.
Moreover, main protocols and instruments of experimental biology, such as microscopy techniques, cellular function analysis, characterization and purification of protein will be outlined.
Finally, some subjects of environmental interest that will involve knowledge of animal physiology will be addressed.

Zoology
The course will contribute to providing and completing the information needed to gain proper knowledge of zoology, including issues related to evolution, species and species interaction, and species and habitats. The general objectives of the course are: I) to acquire the critical evaluation tools to obtain an adequate knowledge of the evolutionary and functional characteristics of the main zoological groups II) to acquire the critical evaluation tools to obtain an adequate knowledge of the evolutionary and functional problems of the main Phyla III) synergistically apply zoological knowledge with other disciplines IV) enhance their dissemination skills by exploiting the acquired knowledge. The emphasis will be on the evolution of organs and apparatus, on functional evolution, reproductive strategies and sexuality. The phylogeny and the main criteria for the classification of animal groups will be treated. The organization, reproduction and sexuality in the Protozoi will also be presented. The main features of Metazoi will be described: the early stages of embryonic development, the appearance of body cavities, and the origin of Protostomi and Deuterostomi. Description of Phyla animals will take place with particular regard to organization, adaptation and phylogenetic relationships. The zoological course therefore aims to provide an overview of animal diversity through animal phylogeny.