Content (Syllabus outline)

Introduction to modern plant biotechnology. Molecular markers: recombinant DNA technology (gene cloning, principles of hybridization and PCR methods); development of molecular markers (RAPD, AFLP, SSR, ITS). Application of molecular markers in agriculture: evaluation of genetic diversity, cultivar identification and diagnostics of plant pathogens. Genomic approach in plant biotechnology.

Plant tissue cultures: micro propagation and production of virus free plants.

Genetically modified organisms: basic principles of gene transformation by Agrobacterium tumefaciens and biolistics. Genetically modified plants with resistance to herbicides, pests and viruses. Review of potential traits for genetic transformation: fruit ripening, composition of vegetable oils, improvements of nutrients content, resistance to biotic and abiotic stress, bio-farming etc.

Biosafety and genetically modified plants. Relevant international and national regulations for genetically modified plants. Public opinion and acceptance of biotechnology.

Prerequisites

Conditions for inclusion in the work:

Enrolment in the appropriate academic year. Knowledge of genetics, plant breeding and plant physiology. Sound knowledge of molecular genetics is a specific requirement.
 

Conditions for performing study obligations:

There are no conditions.