Universitat Internacional de Catalunya
Genetic Engineering and Experimental Models
Other languages of instruction: English, Spanish
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.
These contents are aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), by contributing to biomedical advancement; SDG 4 (Quality Education), through specialized scientific training; and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), fostering innovative and responsible biotechnology.
Pre-course requirements
Basic knowledge of Cell/Molecular Biology, Biochemistry and Genetics.
Objectives
- To ensure that students understand the essential concepts, experimental models, and main techniques that underpin this discipline.
- To guide students in the evaluation and design of cloning and gene editing methods, promoting a reflective approach to their applications and limitations.
- To promote discussion about the advances and challenges of genetic engineering.
Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme
- CN15 - Identify analytical and experimental methodologies used in the field of Biomedical Sciences, whether they be established or cutting-edge.
- CP02 - Apply scientific methodology to interpret practical or theoretical data by evaluating situations and results from a critical and constructive point of view.
- 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.
- HB01 - Interpret basic data obtained in the biomedical research laboratory, identifying consistent and inconsistent elements, both individually and in a team.
- HB07 - Differentiate instrumental and experimental techniques of disciplines within the field of Biomedical Sciences, critically assessing their suitability for a proposed experimental objective.
- HB11 - Use analytical and experimental techniques to obtain and record results.
Learning outcomes of the subject
At the end of the course, students should be able to:
- Describe the fundamentals of genetic engineering and its relationship to experimental models.
- Identify and apply essential techniques such as PCR, CRISPR, and sequencing in projects related to genetic modification.
- Recognize the main non-human experimental model organisms used in the study of human diseases and understand the theory of animal experimentation.
- Explain the role of host cells and vectors in genetic processes, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of the different types that exist.
- Design strategies for cloning and gene editing, considering the ethical and technical implications.
- Explore recent advances, emerging applications, and ethical challenges associated with the future of genetic engineering.
- Identify some specific examples of the application of genetic technologies in medical, industrial, and forensic contexts.
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: Genetic editing of yeast cells using CRISPR/Cas9.
3rd and 4th practical classes: Identification of genetically modified foods by PCR.
Teaching and learning activities
In person
Fully in-person modality in the classroom
1. Lectures - 12 hours: presentation of a theoretical topic by the teaching staff.
2. Case Methods (CM) - 10 hours: presentation of a real or hypothetical situation in small groups. Students work together with the teaching staff to solve practical questions. The teaching staff intervenes actively and, if necessary, provides new knowledge.
3. Practical Classes - 8 hours: experimental demonstration in the laboratory on concepts studied in theoretical classes. Familiarization with the most frequent experimental techniques used in a biochemistry laboratory.
Evaluation systems and criteria
In person
- First attempt students:
- 20% Activities of the MCs.
- 10% Evaluation of laboratory practices.
- 70% 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, -0.33 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".
Evaluation period
- E1 14/05/2026 A16 18:00h
- E2 02/07/2026 A16 14:00h