Learning objectives

Aim of the course is to introduce the students to the knowledge of the different plant responses to modifications in soil conditions with particular emphasis on plant nutrition. After a first introduction on the structural/functional characteristics of soil environment, the effects of nutrient fluctuations, the presence of natural and anthropic (e.g. biostimulants) organic molecules and microorganisms will be described. All these themes will be approached at molecular, biochemical and physiological levels. We intend to give an integrated view of the dynamics taking place at the rhizosphere involving roots cellular activities and associated metabolic modifications.