Module Database

Information for module bioc2001




Module code:BIOC2001(Add to my personalised list)
Title:Molecular Biology
Credit value:1
Division:Division of Biosciences
Module organiser:Prof E A Shephard
Organiser's location:Darwin Building
Available for students in Year(s):2,
Module prerequisites:Biochemistry 1001 or 1009 
Module outline:An integrated course in molecular biology that includes lectures, tutorials, online DNA analysis exercises and an experimental research project, which introduces students to DNA cloning and DNA analyses. Research results are written-up in the format of a scientific paper. In addition to the lecture content, emphasis is placed on numerical skills and data analyses. The module begins with lectures on nucleic acids, their structure and properties and how these are used in research techniques. Plasmids and bacteriophage lambda, whose DNA will be manipulated in the laboratory research project, are covered. Lectures also include bacterial transformation and conjugation. A series of lectures on ‘understanding the human genome’ describe technology e.g. dideoxy and new generation sequencing technologies and features of the genome e.g. genes and gene families, pseudogenes, LINES and SINES and an introduction to bioinformatic tools and databases. Other topics discussed are DNA replication, including the telomerase machinery used to prevent chromosome shortening in eukaryotic organisms. DNA proof-reading and repair mechanisms used during and post-replication are discussed. Protein synthesis and how proteins are targeted to their correct cellular location are covered in five lectures. Building on the biological knowledge and experimental expertise students gain as they progress through the module, lectures are included on how DNA cloning enables us to produce RNA and DNA probes e.g. in situ hybridization and microarray analyses, investigate protein targeting and how cloned DNA is used to express proteins and create mutant proteins. Gene regulation in prokaryotic organisms includes regulation of the lac, trp, lux and ribosomal RNA operons and two-component systems. Eukaryotic molecular biology lectures discuss the contribution of lower eukaryotes; chromosomes; gene control in development, levels of control and gene regulation in higher organisms including hormone regulation of gene expression. 
Module aims:To provide all students with a broad understanding of the topics that constitute the recognized core of molecular biological knowledge. To train students in those practical skills that are deemed necessary to pursue a future career in molecular biology or related area. To provide the intellectual framework whereby the student develops the ability to execute his/her own experiments, to analyze experimental data, to draw qualitative and quantitative conclusions from available data and to discern whether such conclusions are justified. To provide students with an appropriate range of transferrable skills.  
Module objectives:By the end of the course from lecture, laboratory and tutorial teaching students should have: - developed, at the level presented in standard undergraduate textbooks, knowledge and understanding of the major areas of molecular biology, namely: structure of nucleic acids; recombinant DNA technology; plasmids and microbial genetics; prokaryotic transcription and its control; DNA replication and DNA repair; protein synthesis and protein targeting; eukaryotic gene control. Through an understanding of biological principles students should have knowledge of how research techniques develop and how their use aids our understanding of biological processes.  
Key skills provided by module:Assessment of personal knowledge through participation in pre-practical quizzes, in-course tests and other course activities Ability to use feedback and assessment given by tutors to improve performance and knowledge Gained a good grasp of basic laboratory skills in molecular biology and to work safely in a laboratory Improved numerical, analytical and data handling skills Ability to write scientific findings and methods in the form of a scientific paper Strengthened skills in problem solving and critical thought Developed the ability to take part in discussions Assessment of the quality of teaching by filling in a course questionnaire - Embarked on a continuing programme of acquisition of transferrable skills namely: presentation skills in the form of an oral presentation; teamwork in the laboratory; individual study skills to achieve in course assessments and gain knowledge; develop time management and organizational skills to work effectively in the laboratory and in academic study and to meet deadlines.  
Module timetable: 
Module assessment:Practical write-up 20.00%.
Two in course tests (1 hour each) 20.00%.
Two hour unseen written examination 60.00%.
Taking this module as an option?:POSS 2 
Link to virtual learning environment(registered students only) 
Last updated:2013-09-24 10:03:36 by