Module: Gene Cloning, Protein Expression & Purification

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Gene Cloning, Protein Expression & Purification
Module Code	GCB1012 (ITS: BE380)
Faculty	Biotechnology	School	Science & Health
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

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

Section Breakdown
CRN	10740	Part of Term	Semester 1
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC2	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Jiafu Wang	Module Teacher	Denise Harold, Emma Finlay, Paul Cahill, Paula Meleady

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment 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; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

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.

Indicative Reading List

Books:
None

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None