BMS1062

Molecular biology

6 points · 3 lectures per week, 3 hours practicals or equivalent per week · Second semester · Clayton

Objectives On successful completion of this subject students will have a theoretical and practical understanding of the biological molecules which make up the blueprint of life. They should be able to describe the interactions of biological molecules which constitute essential processes in living cells. The laboratory sessions will allow the students to acquire practical laboratory methods used in the identification and analysis of DNA, and to acquire the basic technical skills essential for experimental molecular biology. Students will understand the implications of the Human Genome Project for the genetic basis of disease and understand the principles and possible applications of human gene therapy. On completion of the subject, students will have a sound basis for advanced studies in molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology in later years of the course and will have the skills required to use the Internet molecular biology resources to complement conventional written information.

Synopsis Students will be introduced to the principles and technical aspects of gene structure and function, which will include the genetic code and its interpretation, the assembly of genes and chromosomal organisation, and the basics of the genetic flow of information from DNA to RNA to protein. The students will examine the mechanisms of gene expression and regulation, gene replication and repair, and the causes and implications of genetic mutations. The more recent abilities of humans to use molecular genetics and recombinant DNA technology for the manipulation of genes will be introduced, leading to an examination of the Human Genome Project and its consequences in bioinformatics and the genetic basis of disease. This will lead on to an introduction to the new science of Genomics and its applications in medicine and principles of gene therapy. Throughout the subject, the students will be introduced to the modern practical laboratory methods used in the identification and analysis of DNA

Assessment Theory Examination 60% · Practical examination 20% · Laboratory reports and demonstrators' assessment: 20%

Prescribed texts

Lewin B Genes VI Oxford University Press, 1997

Back to the 1999 Medicine Handbook