VPS2092 - Molecular cell biology

Leader: Dr Helen Irving

Offered

Parkville Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit covers molecular and cell biology and include topics such as the classification of cells (prokaryotes and eukaryotes), the structure and functions of nucleotides and their derivatives, the processes of transcription and translation, genetic engineering techniques, use of plasmid DNA to clone genes, and the construction of genomic and cDNA libraries. In addition, some common molecular biological techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), hybridizations methods, DNA sequencing, and the application of recombinant DNA in industry, will also be covered.

Objectives

Classify cells, whether prokaryotes or eukaryotes;
Understand the structure/function of nucleotides and their derivatives;
Outline the differences between DNA and RNA.
Describe the method of gene cloning using plasmid DNA
Define DNA manipulative enzymes (e.g. restriction enzymes, DNA ligases etc.)
Give examples of the application of recombinant DNA in medicine and industry, e.g. recombinant insulin manufacture in E.coli
Describe methods of construction of genomic and cDNA libraries.
Describe some molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA microarary technology and DNA sequencing procedures

Assessment

Various during semester and an end of semester examination.

Contact hours

2 weeks of 2 lectures per week (a total of 24 hours of lectures) and 8 x 3 hour practical sessions (a total of 24 hours). In addition 24 hours of problem based self directed learning will also be assigned as individual /group based projects.

Prerequisites

VPS2011 Pharmaceutical biochemistry