Structure, Function and Analysis of Genes

Code

LIFE2076

School

Life Sciences

Level

2

Credits

20

Semesters

Autumn UK

Summary

This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the structures of DNA and RNA and how the information within these nucleic acids is maintained and expressed in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell types. Additionally, this module describes how nucleic acids can be manipulated in vitro using molecular biological approaches. Practical classes will focus on the cloning/manipulation of DNA to express recombinant proteins in E. coli systems.

Target Students

This module is only available to the following programmes;BSc/MSci Biochemistry U6UBCHMY/U6UBIOCH (C700/C703),BSc/MSCi Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine U6UBCHMM/U7UBIOMM (C741/C742) and BSc/MSci Biochemistry and Genetics U6UBCHMG/U7UBCHMG.This module has a cap of 130 places due to the mode of delivery involving integrated laboratory sessions.

Additional Requirements

Only available for students studying LIFE1029 Genes, Molecules and Cells and LIFE1039 Core Skills in Biochemistry. LIFE2076 cannot be taken if student is/or has taken LIFE2072 The Genome and Human Disease.

Co-requisites

Modules you must take in the same academic year, or have taken in a previous year, to enrol in this module:

• Genes, Molecules and Cells
• Core Skills in Biochemistry

Classes

This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc

Assessment

• 33% Coursework 1: Laboratory Report (1,000 to 2,500 words).
• 67% Exam 1 (2-hour): ExamSys examination

Assessed by end of autumn semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

The overarching learning outcome of this course is to ensure that students understand the flow of information from the genetic blueprint of the cell, through to how proteins are translated, and how proteins feed back into the transcriptional control of genes. They should also understand and have practical experience of how to manipulate genes using vectors in vitro, and the basic principles of genetic engineering and its application(s) in biochemistry for protein expression.

Knowledge and Understanding – students will:

1. know the structural parameters of DNA and how they relate to protein binding.
2. know the structural differences between a nucleotide and a nucleoside. Understand how replication is initiated, describe forks and bubbles, leading and lagging strands, and identify and describe the role of protein components of the replisome.
3. understand how transcription is regulated, both in terms of the promoter and termination.
4. be able to explain how transcription can be repressed and induced in prokaryotes using the lac operon as an example.
5. have a detailed understanding of the life cycle of phage lambda and its relevance to gene expression.
6. be able to describe how genes are organised in eukaryotes and that one gene can yield more than one mRNA through alternative splicing, explain isoforms.
7. be able to describe the translational machinery in eukaryotes and how it functions/ is regulated; understand the basic ideas of DNA ‘cloning’ including library construction and screening.
8. understand the concepts and basic enzyme ‘toolbox’ used to clone DNA.
9. understand the principles of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Sanger DNA sequencing.

Specific learning objectives from the practical laboratory sessions would be to.

Professional skills and practical skills
Students will develop:

1. the ability to articulate knowledge and understanding of scientific concepts.
2. acquire first-hand experience of manipulating RNA and DNA in vitro with the aim of producing recombinant proteins in E. coli bacterial systems.

Transferable/Key skills
Students will develop:

1. the ability to communicate effectively in writing.
2. organise and manage working time, schedule tasks and meet deadlines.
3. use and access information and communication technology.
4. the ability to reflect upon and assess your own progress, strengths and weaknesses.

Conveners

• Dr Simon Dawson
• Prof Ronald Chalmers