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)
4/5th Practical class: Discussion and interpretation of results. (Lab)
Evaluation systems and criteria
In person
1) Students in first call:
- Lab practices: 20%
- Lecture participation: 10%
- Oral presentations about model organisms: 10%
- Final exam: 70%
Teachers reserve 5% of the mark to be granted on subjective items such as: involvement, participation, respect for basic standards, etc.
2) Students in second call:
- Same criteria as in the first call.
3) Students in third and fifth call:
- Attendance and marks obtained in laboratory practices will be saved, but whenever they wish, the student can repeat the class methodologies and obtain a new mark.
4) Students in fourth and sixth call:
The weighting and rules of these calls are the same as for the second call.
General considerations about the assessment system:
EVALUATION SYSTEM:
To obtain the final grade, the average between all the qualifications will be done only if a grade equal to or greater than 5 is obtained in the final exam.
The course is passed if, in adition to the previous statement, the average grade e is qual to or greater than 5.
To decide to give an Honours mark, candidates will be given special consideration for their participation and involvement in the different methodologies of the subject, as well as respect for the subject’s basic standards. Honors mark will not be given in the second sitting.
EXAMS:
The exam will be face-to-face in the classroom.
The exams will be test-type and marked as follows: 1 point for each correct answer, - 0.25 points for every wrong answer. Non - marked options will not have an impact in the grade.
ATTENDANCE:
Attendance to practice sessions is compulsory. Not atending these sessions will produce the fail of the subject.
Attendance to the theoretical classes will not be controlled, but in order to correctly follow the study of the subject it is recommended to attend the maximum possible number of sessions.
GENERAL:
The improper use of electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets or laptops may result in expulsion from the class. The recording and dissemination of either students or teachers during the different lessons is regarded as improper use, as well as the use of these devices for recreational and non-educational purposes.
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 24/05/2023 16:00h
- E2 29/06/2023 I3 16:00h