6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL
Undergraduate - Unit
Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.
Faculty
Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
Organisational Unit
Chief examiner(s)
Assoc. Professor Elizabeth Davis
Coordinator(s)
Associate Professor Fasseli Coulibaly
Unit guides
Co-requisites
Must be enrolled in one of the following:
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science (including double degree programs)
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Scholar Program)
- Bachelor of Biomedical Science Advanced with Honours
Prohibitions
MCB2011, MOL2011.
Synopsis
Gene structure and function, including 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. Mechanisms of gene expression and regulation, gene replication and repair, and the causes and implications of genetic mutations. Molecular genetics and recombinant DNA technology for the manipulation of genes. Genomics and its applications in medicine and principles of gene therapy.
Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- Explain the mechanisms of DNA replication and expression of genetic information.
- Evaluate the different levels of control of gene expression from DNA to protein.
- Apply the principles of relevant DNA technologies and bioinformatics to investigate problems in medicine, diagnostic or research
- Demonstrate an understanding of DNA recombination, mutation and repair to interpret their role in normal biological processes and disease
- Use molecular biology techniques and analytical skills to perform, interpret and critically analyse experiments addressing simple questions in research or medicine
Assessment
NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 3 hours and 10 minutes.
- Theory examination (3 hours) (60%)
- Practical course (30%)
- Mid semester MCQ test (1 hour) (10%)
A pass in the final examination must be obtained to pass the unit.
Workload requirements
The workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours spread across the semester (roughly 12 hours per week).
The workload is composed of approximately an even mixture of attendance at scheduled activities and self-scheduled study time. Learning activities comprise a mixture of instructor-directed, peer-directed and self-directed learning, which includes face-to-face and online engagement.
See also Unit timetable information