Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description To provide the student with the relevant background information necessary to understand recombinant DNA technology and in particular how recombinant proteins can be manipulated and produced safely, stably and authentically using an appropriate cell-based system. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. describe the key features of DNA, RNA and proteins and explain the inter-relationships between these molecules 2. outline the basis of current molecular biologic and genomic technologies and be able to contrast the structures of eukaryotic and prokaryotic genes and genomes 3. discuss the complex nature of protein molecules including antibodies and the inherent issues that need to be considered when attempting to produce them in recombinant form 4. describe the events involved in generating recombinant DNA molecules, to include cDNA generation, expression vectors and the choice of host cell 5. discuss protein engineering, including protein tagging and mutagenesis-based strategies for generating recombinant proteins with modified properties (with case study examples including antibody engineering) 6. describe nucleic acid therapeutics and applications, to include an understanding of the basis of RNA interference/gene knockdown technology and mRNA vaccine technology 7. review bioanalytical methods used to test biologics for nucleic acid content | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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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 |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Overview of the structure and roles of DNA, RNA and protein molecules Genomes, genome sequencing and molecular biology methods including PCR Cloning and manipulating DNA sequences Vectors and hosts for expressing recombinant proteins Transfection and selection of recombinant cells Protein engineering strategies -case studies Antibody engineering strategies -case studies RNA interference/gene knockdown and mRNA vaccine design Bioanalysis of biologics for nucleic acid content | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles: None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||