Module Title
Molecular Biology And Modern Technologies
Keywords
Molecuar genetics, DNA replication, transcription and translation, gene regulation, DNA and peptide sequencing, DNA finger printing, PCR, proteomics, genomics |
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Prerequisites for Module
Basic cell biology.
Corequisite Modules
Refer to Definitive Course Document.
Precluded Modules
Refer to Definitive Course Document.
Aims of Module
To enable students to understand the basic principles in molecular biology and to appreciate the use of a number of modern analytical methods/techniques in the analysis of biomolecues (proteins and nucleic acids).
Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
| 1. |
Define the principles of heredity.
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| 2. |
Explain the processes of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
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| 3. |
Discuss the regulatory process of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
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| 4. |
Explain the basic principles and applications of DNA and peptide analysis.
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| 5. |
Discuss the basic principles and applications of genomics and proteomics.
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Indicative Module Content
Genetics
Structure and properties of nucleic acids and proteins. DNA structure and gene function. Gene segregation and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. DNA recombination in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
Molecular Biology
Replication of DNA; the role of DNA polymerases, transcription, translation, splicing, transactivation and post-translational modification. Control of gene transcription, gene expression and mechanisms of mutation.
Modern technologies
| Proteomics including protein purification, identification, 2-D gel analysis. Handling of protein and peptide samples for proteomics, MALDI-TOF, sequencing and data searching.
Genomics including applications of the polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing, DNA profiling, cloning technology, Southern and Northern blots, micro-array technology, small inhibitory RNAs.
Indicative Student Workload
Contact Hours
| Distance Learning | Assessment
| 2 | Tutorials/Seminars
| 11 |
Directed Study
| | Directed Study
| 80 |
Private Study
| | Private Study
| 57 |
Mode of Delivery
This course is delivered via open/distance learning.
Assessment Plan
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Learning Outcomes Assessed
| | Component 1 | 4,5
| | Component 2 | 1,2,3,4,5
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2.5 hour exam (short answer and extended response questions) on principles of heredity; gene exchange mechanisms, regulation of molecular processes and basic principles of DNA and protein analysis.
Essay on the principles and applications of genomics and proteomics.
Indicative Bibliography
| 1. | LODISH, H., BERK, A., ZIPURSKY, S.L., MATUSUIDAIRI, P. AND DARNELL, J., 2000. Molecular Cell Biology. 5th ed.: W.H. Freeman.
| | 2. | LESK, A.M., 2002. Introduction to Bioformatics. Oxford University Press.
| | 3. | BERG, J.M., TYMOCZ, J.L. and STRYER, L., 2001. Biochemistry. 4th ed. W.H. Freeman.
| | 4. | GRIFFITHS, S.F., MILLER, J.H., SUZUKI, D.T., LEWONTIN, R.C., GELBART, W.M., 2000. An Introduction to Genetic Analysis. 7th ed. W.H. Freeman.
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