DCU Home | Our Courses | Loop | Registry | Library | Search DCU

Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2013 - 2014

Module Title Bioinformatics and Gene Cloning
Module Code BE380
School School of Biotechnology

Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
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 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. Record laboratory research results through the maintenance of a laboratory notebook, accurately reporting experimental results and conclusions.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Laboratory54Molecular Biology Laboratory
Independent Study71report writing, literature review
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.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

    Other Resources

    None
    Programme or List of Programmes
    GCBBSc in Genetics & Cell Biology
    Archives: