Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Mobility Credits:Biology I
Other languages of instruction: English, Spanish
Teaching staff
Questions will be addressed either in person or via videoconference with the course tutor.
Introduction
Biology I is based on advanced cell and molecular biology and aims to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles of cellular organization, the molecular mechanisms regulating biological functions, and the relationship between cellular alterations and human diseases. The course focuses on the analysis of membrane structure and dynamics, cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, and intracellular signaling pathways.
This course directly contributes to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by promoting the understanding of cellular processes involved in human health and disease, and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure) through the application of molecular biology to biomedical innovation and the development of novel therapies.
Pre-course requirements
Students are recommended to have successfully completed the core courses in Cell Biology I and II, Biochemistry I and II, Molecular Biology, and Genetics. Introductory knowledge of physiology is also recommended, including prior completion of the Structure and Function courses covering the different body systems, as well as courses in Biomedical Techniques and Technologies.
Objectives
- To deepen students' understanding of cellular organization and dynamics in tissues and organs.
- To analyze the molecular mechanisms involved in cell signaling, DNA repair, and cell death.
- To relate advanced cellular processes to human diseases.
Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme
- CN14 - Identify the principles of biomedical sciences related to health, as well as the basic concepts and tools that have an impact on Biomedical Sciences and allow them to work in any of its fields (biomedical companies, bioinformatics labs, research laboratories, clinical analysis companies, etc.).
- CP05 - Apply biological foundations in the search for practical solutions to health problems, following ethical standards and scientific rigour and respecting fundamental equal rights between men and women, and the promotion of human rights and the values inherent in a peaceful society of democratic values that includes inclusive, non-discriminatory language without stereotypes.
Learning outcomes of the subject
At the end of the course, students should be able to:
- Interpret the molecular mechanisms that regulate cellular function.
- Relate cellular disorders to human diseases.
- Apply advanced molecular biology techniques to biomedical problems.
- Critically evaluate scientific articles on cellular processes and their relationship to human health.
- Design experimental strategies to study cell signaling and DNA repair processes in pathological contexts.
Syllabus
Topic 1. Structure and dynamics of cellular membranes and organelles.
Topic 2. Advanced cell cycle regulation and checkpoint control.
Topic 3. DNA repair mechanisms and mutagenesis.
Topic 4. Intracellular signaling and cell-to-cell communication.
Topic 5. Biomedical applications: cancer, apoptosis, and cell-based therapies.
Practice 1. Structure and Dynamics of Cell Membranes.
Practice 2. Experimental Analysis of the Cell Cycle.
Practice 3. DNA Repair and the Response to Genomic Damage.
Practice 4. Intracellular Signalling and Apoptosis.
Practice 5. Biomedical Applications of Cell and Molecular Biology.
Teaching and learning activities
In person
The course content will be delivered through three different teaching and learning activities:
1. Lectures – 20 hours: the instructor delivers theoretical content to the entire class through lecture-based sessions.
2. Case-Based Learning (CBL) – 20 hours: students work in groups to solve clinical cases provided by the instructor. During the sessions, each group presents and discusses its conclusions, with active guidance from the instructor, who introduces additional concepts whenever necessary.
3. Laboratory Practical Sessions – 10 hours: students perform experimental laboratory activities to apply the concepts covered in the lectures under the supervision of the instructor.
Evaluation systems and criteria
In person
1) Students taking the course for the first time:
Midterm examination: 20%
Case-Based Learning (CBL): 20%
Laboratory report: 10%
Final examination: 50%
The instructor reserves up to 10% of the final grade to be awarded based on qualitative criteria such as engagement, participation, respect for basic rules, and professional attitude.
2) Students in the second or subsequent examination periods:
The grades obtained for the Case-Based Learning activities and laboratory practical sessions will be retained, and the final examination will account for 70% of the final grade. Students repeating the course who wish to retake the midterm examination during the third or fifth examination period may do so by informing the course coordinator in advance. It is also possible to repeat the Case-Based Learning activities and/or the laboratory practical sessions during the third or fifth examination period.
General points to be considered regarding the assessment system:
To be eligible for grade averaging, students must obtain a minimum grade of 5.0/10 in the final examination.
In addition to the above, students must obtain an overall average grade of 5.0/10 or higher to pass the course.
Due to the continuous assessment system, students who have not attended at least 75% of the scheduled teaching hours cannot be assessed.
Improper use of electronic devices (including recording or distributing images or audio of students or instructors during teaching sessions, as well as using such devices for recreational or non-educational purposes) may result in removal from the classroom.
Examinations will include multiple-choice questions (4 answer options; +1 for each correct answer and −0.33 for each incorrect answer) and essay or short-answer questions.
4) Class attendance:
Regular attendance at lectures and Case-Based Learning sessions is recommended.
Attendance at lectures is not compulsory, although it is strongly recommended.
Removal from a lecture or a Case-Based Learning session may negatively affect the student's continuous assessment.
Attendance at Case-Based Learning sessions is not compulsory; however, students must attend at least 75% of the sessions to obtain the grade corresponding to this assessment activity.
Attendance at laboratory practical sessions is compulsory. An unexcused absence will result in failure of the course.
5) Award of Honours (Matrícula d'Honor):
When awarding Honours, particular consideration will be given to students' participation and engagement in the different teaching and learning activities, as well as their respect for the course regulations.
6) Improper use of electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, or laptop computers may result in removal from the classroom. Improper use includes recording or distributing images or audio of students or instructors during teaching sessions, as well as using these devices for recreational or non-educational purposes.