Module Title |
Introduction to Microbiology and Genetics
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Module Code |
BE102
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School |
School of Biotechnology
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Online Module Resources
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Level |
1
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Credit Rating |
0
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Pre-requisite |
None
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Co-requisite |
None
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Module Aims
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Following on from module BE101, which, having introduced the concept of the cell, focuses on the basic biochemistry, physiology and molecular detail of animals and plants; this module covers three themes: (i) The diversity of the microbial world, and (ii) An introduction to cell culturing (growth under specified conditions for a specific purpose) - animal, plant and microbial.(iii) An introduction to genetics as it applies to all forms of life (with a particular emphasis on humans).
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Learning Outcomes
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The student will:
7Learn about the diversity of the microbial world.
7Gain knowledge about what requirements (both nutritional and physical) are necessary for the culturing of cells.
.Gain knowledge of the basic principles underlying the field of genetics in general, and human genetics in particular.
.Understand the molecular structure and behaviour of genes and genomes.
7Learn about the Human Genome Project and some of the potential applications of the newer gene-based technologies.
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Indicative Time Allowances
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Hours
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Lectures |
36
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Tutorials |
12
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Laboratories |
0
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Seminars |
0
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Independent Learning Time |
27
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Total |
75
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Placements |
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Assignments |
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NOTE
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Assume that a 0 credit module load represents approximately 75 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.
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Indicative Syllabus
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Cell Culture (to encompass all cell types)(6 weeks)
(to include an Introduction to `Diversity of Microorganisms')
·Introduction to Microorganisms (12H)
Bacteria ( Eubacteria/Archaebacteria)
Protists/Algae/Fungi/Viruses
Biotech Applications: Disease/Medical & Sources of Commercial Products
·Cell Culture (6H) - to include ALL cell types (plant/animal/microbe)
.Nutrient & other physical/chemical requirements
.Sterility & Containment (Application: Food preservation)
Fermentation (Batch/Fed-batch/Continuous)
.Applications: Recombinant protein (Humulin); Antibiotics; Subtilsin; Probiotics; Growth factors; Shikowin/Berberine
Genetics (6 weeks)
·Introduction to Genetics: Different Investigative Approaches; Darwin & Evolution; genetic variation - central; Chromosome number - Karyotyping; Chromosome mutations, examples. Totipotency/Differentiated cells/Cloning - Dolly the sheep.
·Mendelian Genetics( basic principles); Pedigree analysis; Morgan's Fruit Flies- tracing a gene to a specific c/some.
.Introduction to human genetic diseases (eg; PKU, CF, Hemophila and hemochromatosis).
·Structure and physical properties of DNA molecules.
·Introduction to genes; The genetic code; Relationship between genes and proteins; Gene mutations (and consequences), examples; allele frequencies in different populations. Genetic testing/screening.
·Applications of recombinant DNA technologies; Food, Health & Environment; GMOs. Production of genetically engineered pharmaceuticals, transgenic organisms, pharming.
·Human Genome Project: Medical consequences and Ethical Issues; Model Organisms: Concept of comparative genomics (video); Concept of pharmacogenomics; Genetic databases: From Iceland to GATTACA (video)
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Assessment | Continuous Assessment | 20% | Examination Weight | 80% |
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Indicative Reading List
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Biology by S.S.Mader (WCB Publishers)
Biology by N.A.Campbell and J.B.Reece (Benjamin Cummings)
Biology of Microorganisms by Brock (Prentice hall)
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Programme or List of Programmes
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AC | BSc in Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sc. |
AS | BSc in Analytical Science |
BSSA | Study Abroad (DCU Business School) |
BSSAO | Study Abroad (DCU Business School) |
BT | BSc in Biotechnology |
CES | BSc Common Entry into Science |
ECSA | Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing) |
ECSAO | Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing) |
ESH | BSc Environmental Science & Health |
GCB | BSc in Genetics & Cell Biology |
HMSA | Study Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science) |
HMSAO | Study Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science) |
SCI | BSc Science International |
SE | BSc Science Education |
SHSA | Study Abroad (Science & Health) |
SHSAO | Study Abroad (Science & Health) |
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