Mycology encompasses the study of fungi, organisms that, in addition to playing a crucial role in natural systems, have always been utilized by humans in various fields, particularly in the food sector. Edible macrofungi, with excellent organoleptic properties, are widely used in the Mediterranean diet, but some are toxic and dangerous to human health. Microfungi can cause food contamination, but they also play key roles in food biotechnology. Understanding the characteristics, primary uses, and traditional applications of these complex organisms is essential for their proper utilization in various food sectors.
The course aims to provide a synthesis of fundamental knowledge in mycology (biology, ecology, systematics); to illustrate the importance, use, and nutritional value of various types of fungi (unicellular, filamentous microfungi, macrofungi including hypogeous species) in the Mediterranean diet; to address issues related to mycetism and mycotoxicosis; and to touch upon food fraud related to fungi.
Active participation in lectures, combined with individual study, will enable the student to:
General Biology Knowledge
The course comprises lectures, laboratory activities, and thematic seminars delivered through multimedia presentations in-person, as well as synchronous and asynchronous video recordings. Attendance at lectures is highly recommended. Practical activities are conducted in equipped classrooms with microscopes and specific instruments.
Students who have valid certification of physical or learning disabilities on file with the University and who wish to discuss possible accommodations or other circumstances regarding lectures, coursework and exams, should speak both with the instructor and with Professor Federico Scarpa (federico.scarpa@unige.it ), the Polytechnic School's disability liaison.
The course program includes the presentation and discussion of the following topics:
Available for download on Aulaweb for students enrolled in the course are PDF slides of the lectures, as well as additional materials in PDF format (scientific articles and online texts) in Italian, English, French, and Spanish.
Some texts for further reading:
Ricevimento: Agreed directly with the instructor via phone at +39 010 3538240 or through email at mirca.zotti@unige.it.
MIRCA ZOTTI (President)
GRAZIA CECCHI
SIMONE DI PIAZZA
Please refer to the detailed schedule at the following link: https://easyacademy.unige.it/portalestudenti/.
The exam consists of an oral test during which the student will be required to answer questions about the topics covered in the lectures and practical laboratory activities.
The oral exam will focus on the topics covered during the lectures and practical laboratory activities. The aim is to assess the student's level of learning, autonomy, proficiency in language, and ability to synthesize information.
Regular and consistent attendance at lectures is strongly recommended.