Undergraduate - UnitBCH3031 - Advanced molecular biology: Modern concepts and applications

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Synopsis

This unit provides an understanding of DNA as the genetic component of organisms and cells, encompassing the information content, the organisation of DNA sequences, and expression of this information into RNA and proteins. Topics include global aspects of genome organisation and expression outcomes (genomics and proteomics, respectively). Other themes include the molecular diagnosis and treatment of human genetic disease using smart technologies such as gene therapy, DNA vaccines and novel therapeutics, and new information contributing to treatment deriving from genome mining.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students will understand the molecular biology of genome structure; understand advanced concepts of the regulation of gene expression; understand the application of recombinant DNA technology to the diagnosis and treatment of human disease; understand the application of new information, derived particularly from the Human Genome Project, to biotechnology and biomedicine; have developed a broad view of the importance of the discipline to current advances in biology, biotechnology and medicine; have developed skills, both technical and time/task-management, in the use of routine and advanced biochemistry laboratory equipment and performing a series of experimental procedures; be able to manipulate and interpret experimental data; be able to source information in the scientific literature and on the web concerning particular topics related to the discipline; have developed skills in the communication of scientific information associated with the discipline by verbal and written means and by poster displays involving teamwork co-operation in preparation and presentation.

Assessment

Examination (3 hours): 55%
Essay (2000 words): 15%
Evaluation of practicals and syndicate sessions/ data assessment/ oral presentations (30%) will take place weekly during the semester in the practical/ tutorial/ self-directed learning sessions

Chief examiner(s)

Professor Rod Devenish

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures, one 1-hour tutorial and one 3-hour practical/ peer-group or self-directed learning exercise per week

Prerequisites

One of the following BCH2011, BCH2022, BMS2062, MOL2011, MOL2022

Prohibitions

BTH3757