Teaching code

4S011615

Teacher

Andrea Mafficini

Coordinator

Andrea Mafficini

Credits

6

Language

English

Scientific Disciplinary Sector (SSD)

MED/46 - BIOTECHNOLOGY AND METHODS IN LABORATORY MEDICINE

Period

Secondo semestre LM-6 dal Mar 1, 2025 al Jun 30, 2025.

Courses Single

Not Authorized

Lessons timetable Moodle Seminars 0

Learning objectives

The course aims to provide a deep overview of the current state of precision oncology development. Starting from early experiences in this field, the progressive integration of profiling technologies and protocols for targeted diagnostics and treatment will be described, with a focus on recent developments in companion diagnostics and the emergence of molecular tumor boards. Concepts related to the analysis and clinical impact classification of genomic, transcriptomic, and general molecular profiling data will be revisited and expanded. Starting from the state of the art, current critical issues with respect to the ideal goals of precision oncology will also be evaluated. Possible future developments will also be presented in the light of recent scientific research findings and continuing evolution in the field. The student will be stimulated to critically analyze the information obtained from molecular profiling and clinical-translational studies through discussion of basic concepts and recent publications in the field of precision oncology analyzed from the multiple points of view that characterize this young discipline: biological, diagnostic, medical, ethical, and management. The concepts provided and the information discussed during the course will enable the student to develop a knowledge oriented toward a dynamic understanding of the goals of precision oncology and the evolving tools with which it is equipped. Teaching will involve the integration of theory lectures and work groups. Analysis of scientific articles related to the topics covered in the course will also be offered.
By the end of the course, the student will have acquired:
a) thorough knowledge of the basic concepts of precision oncology and its interdisciplinary nature;
b) understanding of the application of different profiling methodologies to the field of oncology;
c) ability to apply the knowledge acquired to set up an analysis of prognostic/predictive markers in the field of oncology;
d) ability to work in groups, interpret the results of experimental analyses and communicate them according to the standards of the scientific community.

Prerequisites and basic notions

Basic knowledge of genetics, biochemistry and molecular biology, bioinformatics analysis and tumor biology is required.

Program

Precision medicine vs. Personalized medicine. What does this change of term mean for oncology.
More data, more drugs, smaller fractions of eligible patients: the “mission impossible” of clinical trials in precision oncology.
Disease models, -omics studies and the real response of the patient to the targeted therapy.
High throughput techniques in the frame of routine diagnostics: from single marker to panels, to...
The sample, the analysis and the handling of the molecular data.
Classification of molecular alterations: from “big data” to “real world data” to clinical evidence.
The Molecular Tumour Board: sharing information and languages to integrate clinical, genetic, pathological and molecular evidence.
Liquid biopsy: diagnostics and longitudinal monitoring of the oncological patient’s response.
Current weak spots and possible future development of precision oncology.

Didactic methods

The course is taught through lectures. The teaching material is available via Moodle and, upon request, directly delivered to students. Selected recordings of the lectures will be available via Moodle by the end of the course. Part of the course will be taught through filpped learning.

Learning assessment procedures

The exam consists of two tests: a group test that will focus on the presentation of a topic related to the course, which will be proposed by the teacher, and an oral exam consisting of an interview on the topics covered during the course. The exam format is the same for non-attending students and Erasmus students.

Evaluation criteria

To pass the exam, the students must demonstrate that they have fully achieved the learning objectives set. The following will be specifically evaluated:
1) The depth of knowledge of the topics proposed in class;
2) the ability to critically analyze, reason on and connect the various disciplines and topics;
3) the proper use of scientific language and clarity of exposition;
4) the ability to work in a team as for the first test.

Criteria for the composition of the final grade

The overall grade will be the weighted sum of the evaluation obtained in the two tests (group test and oral exam).

Exam language

English

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