Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Genetic Engineering and Experimental Models
Other languages of instruction: Catalan, English
Teaching staff
For any questions, you can contact Jorge Pérez Valle via email at jperezv@uic.es.
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
Conferences:
Unit 1: Introduction to Genetic Engineering and Experimental Models
Unit 2: Common Tools in Genetic Engineering
Unit 3: Host Cells and Vectors
Unit 4: Cloning and Genetic Editing Strategies
Unit 5: The Future of Genetic Engineering
These sessions will be accompanied by workshops (MCs) where some of the concepts explained in class will be addressed in a more applied manner.
Practical Classes (in the laboratory):
1st and 2nd practical classes: Transformation of E.coli cells with a plasmid expressing a fluorescent protein.
3rd and 4th practical classes: Identification of genetically modified foods by PCR.
Teaching and learning activities
In person
Conference: Explanation of a theoretical topic by the instructors.
Practical Lessons: Experimental demonstration in the laboratory on concepts studied in theoretical classes. Familiarization with the most common experimental techniques used in a biochemistry laboratory.
MCs (Activities): Practical activities related to the content explained in class.
Evaluation systems and criteria
In person
- First attempt students:
- 20% Activities of the MCs.
- 10% Evaluation of laboratory practices.
- 20% Partial exam.
- 50% Final exam: multiple-choice test.
- The teaching staff reserves 10% of the grade for subjective arguments such as involvement, participation, adherence to basic rules, etc.
- Second attempt students:
- Same criteria as the first attempt.
- Students in other attempts:
- The grade obtained in continuous assessment will be kept, although, if desired, students may repeat different methodologies and obtain a new grade.
General points to consider about the evaluation system:
GRADE SYSTEM:
- The average will be calculated among all grades as long as a grade equal to or greater than 5 is obtained in the final exam.
- To pass the subject, in addition to the above point, a minimum grade of 5 must be obtained as the average of all assessments.
- In awarding honors, candidates' participation in different methodologies of the subject, as well as adherence to basic rules, will be specially considered. No honors will be granted in the second attempt.
EXAMS:
- The final exam will be conducted in person in the classroom.
- Exams will be multiple-choice, and incorrect answers will deduct points (+1 point for each correct answer, -0.25 points for each incorrect answer). Unanswered questions will not deduct points.
ATTENDANCE:
- Practical classes require mandatory attendance. Non-attendance will result in failing the subject.
- Attendance to the MCs is mandatory. Non-attendance to 80% of the sessions will result in failing the subject.
- Attendance to theoretical classes will not be monitored, but to properly follow the subject's study, attending as many sessions as possible is recommended.
GENERAL:
- Improper use of electronic devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, or laptops, may lead to expulsion from class. Improper use includes recording and broadcasting both students and teachers during different lessons, as well as using these devices for non-educational purposes.
Bibliography and resources
An Introduction to Genetic Engineering: Fourth Edition. Nicholl, Desmond. Cambridge University Press, 2023.
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".