Module: Gene Cloning, Protein Expression & Purification

Module Specifications.

Current Academic Year 2024 - 2025

All Module information is indicative, and this portal is an interim interface pending the full upgrade of Coursebuilder and subsequent integration to the new DCU Student Information System (DCU Key).

As such, this is a point in time view of data which will be refreshed periodically. Some fields/data may not yet be available pending the completion of the full Coursebuilder upgrade and integration project. We will post status updates as they become available. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Date posted: September 2024

Module Title	Gene Cloning, Protein Expression & Purification
Module Code	BE380 (ITS) / GCB1012 (Banner)
Faculty	Science & Health	School	Biotechnology
Module Co-ordinator	Jiafu Wang
Module Teachers	Denise Harold, Emma Finlay, Paul Cahill, Paula Meleady
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	Not Available
Co-requisite	Not Available
Compatibles	Not Available
Incompatibles	Not Available

Repeat the module
Array

Description

To introduce students to applications of Web based bioinformatic analyses To train students in the basic practical techniques of recombinant DNA technology and to develop their understanding of strategies used in the construction, mapping and expression and purification of recombinant molecules.

Learning Outcomes

1. Apply computational skills to analyse DNA sequences using bioinformatics tools
2. Construct recombinant DNA molecules using the techniques of gene cloning
3. Analyse DNA structure and gene expression using restriction digestion and phenotypic detection
4. Purify a recombinant protein using affinity chromatography
5. Record laboratory research results through the maintenance of a laboratory notebook, accurately reporting experimental results and conclusions.
6. Effectively engage in safe laboratory practices, encompassing proper conduct, attire, risk mitigation, and disposal procedures.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Laboratory	36	Molecular Biology Laboratory
Independent Study	71	Preparation before lab, data analysis, literature review, and studying.
Directed learning	18	Laboratory report preparation
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Overview
Overview of bioinformatics and nucleotide and protein databases. Derivation and format of nucleotide and protein sequences e.g. FASTA. Using web resources e.g. NCBI to access and retrieve sequences. Comparing DNA and protein sequences with appropriate databases using BLAST. Displaying similarities using alignments and multiple alignmentsIdentification of coding regions and consensus sequences. Translating nucleotide sequences and searching for open reading frames. Analysis of nucleotide sequences for restriction enzyme sites. Primer design for the PCR. Application of PCR for the amplification of target genes. Analysis of DNA by agarose gel electrophoresis. DNA restriction and restriction mappingCloning in plasmid vectorsLigation. Transformation and electroporation. Extraction of plasmid DNA from transformants and its analysis by restriction and gel electrophoresis. Site directed mutagenesis. Purification of a recombinant protein using a one step affinity chromatography.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown
Assignment	Bioinformatics tasks.	20%	n/a
In Class Test	Include questions on bioinformatics and the recombinant DNA practical.	30%	n/a
Report(s)	Laboratory reports	50%	n/a

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories: Resit category 1: A resit is available for both* components of the module. Resit category 2: No resit is available for a 100% continuous assessment module. Resit category 3: No resit is available for the continuous assessment component where there is a continuous assessment and examination element.
* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a Continuous Assessment/Examination split; where the module is 100% continuous assessment, there will also be a resit of the assessment
This module is category 2

Indicative Reading List

Other Resources

None