The course is given in Italian, but slides and reference text are in English
Course Content
The course covers the major antioxidant systems of plants with emphasis on gene regulation of defense network in response to environmental stresses and biotic factors. It introduces the multiple levels of gene regulation implemented by plants to maintain or modulate the redox homeostasis so providing a better knowledge of the antioxidant properties of fruits and vegetables common in our diet.
Antioxidant Defenses in Plants with Attention to Prunus and Citrus spp.
Milvia Luisa Racchi Antioxidants 2013, 2, 340-369; doi:10.3390 /antiox2040340
Learning Objectives
The aim of the course is to provide an in-depth knowledge on genetics and molecular bases of antioxidant systems in plants for a better understanding of plant defenses against biotic and abiotic stress and at the same time, for gaining a better knowledge of the antioxidant values of most common fruits
Prerequisites
Basic genetics molecular biology and biochemistry
Teaching Methods
Class consists in lessons and seminars for the discussion of scientific papers and reports given by the teacher or proposed by students
Type of Assessment
Oral discussion on the subjects of the course
Course program
The lectures briefly introduce the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as by-products of oxidation/reduction (redox) reactions, and the ways in which the antioxidant defense machinery is involved directly or indirectly in ROS scavenging. Major antioxidants, both enzymatic and non-enzymatic, that protect higher plant cells from oxidative stress damage are described. Among the non-enzymatic defenses, particular attention is paid to ascorbic acid, glutathione, flavonoids, carotenoids, and tocopherols. Particular attention is paid to Prunus and Citrus species because of the nutritional and antioxidant properties contained in these commonly consumed fruit