LSC-20003 - Module Specification
School of Life Sciences
Faculty of Natural Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2024/25

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2024/25

This module will detail how the manipulation of genetic material, DNA, is carried out using landmark techniques developed over the past few decades which have transformed the whole range of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, and Biotechnology. These techniques will be introduced to students via traditional and selective interactive lectures, ranging from basic PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to complex CRISPR gene editing, which now allow us to study the structure and function of single genes, to design and produce modified and novel DNA molecules, and subsequently to produce novel gene products, i.e. proteins. In laboratory sessions, students will learn practical skills in genetic manipulation in order to isolate and clone a fragment of the gene encoding the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase from E. coli. In workshops, students will be given revision opportunities, and introduced to bioinformatics tools as well as ethical issues associated with gene and protein engineering. Students will be assessed on their practical work in the form of a lab pro forma, and for the module overall in a final examination. An understanding of these important techniques is key across the Biochemistry and Biomedical Science programmes; this module therefore provides students with essential background knowledge of the techniques which play key roles in modern molecular biology or biomedical laboratories.

The manipulation of genetic material (primarily DNA) has transformed virtually the whole range of Biological and Biomedical Sciences. Genetic editing techniques now allow us to study the structure and function of single genes, to design and produce modified and novel DNA molecules, and subsequently to produce novel gene products such as new proteins. These can find use in therapeutics, diagnostics, agriculture, food and energy production, and many other applications. This module aims to provide the essential background knowledge of the core concepts and molecular tools used for this purpose and to build on this to describe some of the ways in which these tools are used in Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, and in Biotechnology. The module includes practical manipulation of DNA and the use of techniques such as DNA cloning and polymerase chain reaction which play key roles in modern molecular biology.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Explain the principles and significance of nucleic acid replication and hybridisation, and apply them to the analysis and manipulation of DNA and RNA in vitro: 1
Explain the principles of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), molecular cloning and DNA sequencing, and apply them to the analysis and manipulation of DNA: 1
Describe the strategies and techniques used in cloning genomic DNA and cDNA, and apply them to the expression of recombinant proteins for the analysis of gene function and other applications of modern biotechnology: 1,2
Recognise and discuss key ethical issues related to the use of DNA manipulation and their implications for the development of Genetically Modified Organisms: 2
Describe the principles and current technologies for genome sequencing and genome editing and apply this knowledge to the main areas of biotechnology: 2

Study hours

Active Learning Hours (58 hours)
1 hr x 1 Introduction to module
1 hr x 4 Guidance on assessments and workshops
2 hr x 1 Drop-in Session (Week 7)
1 hr x 1 Drop-in Session (Week 12)
2 hr x 4 Workshops
2 hr x 1 Interactive lecture
10 x 4 hour engagement/note taking from short (10-30 minutes) pre-recorded lectures or other pre-recorded activities/materials
Independent Study Hours (92 hours)
12 hr for reflection from laboratory work delivered as part of the LSC-20107 Practical Skills in Bioscience module
40 hr for revision for coursework assessment
40 hr for revision for final open book assessment

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment