Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Genetic Engineering and Experimental Models
Other languages of instruction: Catalan, Spanish
Teaching staff
Introduction
This course explores the methods and applications of genetic engineering. We will gain a broad understanding of the molecular tools which allow us to modify genetic material by cutting and joining DNA sequences from different organisms. We will learn about the range of 'model' organisms which can be genetically manipulated using these precise molecular tools, and the types of knowledge this allows us to gain about the function of the genetic system. We will also learn about the medical, industrial and forensic applications of genetic engineering technology. Finally, we will consider the most recent developments in technology to manipulate genes and the future of genetic engineering.
Pre-course requirements
Basic knowledge of Cell/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry and Genetics.
Objectives
- Gain a knowledge of the molecular toolkit of molecular cloning and genetic engineering more broadly.
- Understand the steps of a typical experiment in the field of molecular cloning.
- Understand the strengths and weaknesses of different types of host cells and model organisms.
- Understand some specific examples of the application of genetic technologies in medical, industrial and forensic contexts.
- Understand the current state of the art approaches to genetic engineering.
Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme
- Identify and know how to apply genetic engineering concepts to the Biomedical Sciences field.
- Transmit in a clear and unambiguous way to a specialised or non-specialised audience, the results of scientific and technological research projects and innovation from the field of the most advanced innovation, as well as the most important concepts which they are based on.
- Understand, critically evaluate and know how to use sources of clinical and biomedical information to obtain, organize, interpret and communicate scientific and health care information.
- Be able to formulate hypotheses, collect and critically evaluate information for problem solving using the scientific method.
- Ability for critical thinking, creativity and constructive skepticism with a focus on research within professional practice.
Learning outcomes of the subject
- Identify the fundamentals and apply the methodology described for genetic modification of organisms.
- Identify the main non-human experimental model organisms used in the study of human diseases and know the theory of animal experimentation organisms.
- Understand and properly use scientific terminology and concepts used in the field of cell biology.
- Research, organise and effectively communicate scientific information.
- Develop a critical approach.
- Learn how to discuss complex concepts and present hypotheses.
Syllabus
Lectures (compulsory):
Unit 1: Tools to work with DNA
Unit 2: Host cells and vectors
Unit 3: Cloning strategies
Unit 4: Medical and forensic applications
Unit 5: Experimental models
Unit 6: State of the art and the future
Practical classes (compulsory):
1st Practical class: Cut and Paste: Role of restriction enzymes. (Computer room)
2nd Practical class: Vectors: The vehicle of DNA. (Computer room)
3rd Practical class: Cloning procedure. (Lab)
4th Practical class: Discussion and interpretation of results. (Lab)
5th Practical class: Visit transgenic/viral facility TBC
Teaching and learning activities
In blended
Lecture: Explanation of a theoretical topic by the instructor for 50 minutes.
Practical lessons: Experimental demonstration in the laboratory of concepts studied in the theoretical classes. Familiarisation with the most frequent experimental techniques used in a biochemistry laboratory.
Evaluation systems and criteria
In blended
20% assessment of practice, 10% attitude and participation, 10% presentation on model organisms and 60% final test.
- 20% - Practical class test. Multiple choice tests based on practical classes.
- 10% - Attitude and Participation in class. Participation, initiative and attitude during the class and assigned practical tasks will be evaluated.
- 10% - Quality of presentations on model organisms.
- 60% - Final test: multiple choice test. Includes all the material covered in class. It is essential to pass this test in order to pass the overall subject.
To pass the subject you must obtain a minimum of 5 in the final exam.
Bibliography and resources
An Introduction to Genetic Engineering: Third Edition. Nicholl, Desmond. Cambridge University Press, 2008.
Molecular Biology of the Cell: Sixth Edition. Alberts, Bruce, Johnson, Alexander D., Lewis, Julian, Morgan, David, Raff, Martin, Roberts, Keith, Walter, Peter. New York : Garland Science, 2015. *see chapter 8, section "Analysing and manipulating DNA".
Evaluation period
- E1 21/05/2021 I3 11:00h
- E2 28/06/2021 09:00h