Registry

Module Specifications

Archived Version 2023 - 2024

Module Title	Proteins, Proteomics & Biopharma
Module Code	BE402
School	School of Biotechnology
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Dr Ciaran Fagan	Office Number	X207
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

To describe some important techniques used for the purification and analysis of proteins. To illustrate the relevance of DNA recombinant technology to the production and purification of proteins and peptides. To review the use of enzymes in key industrial processes, noting their strengths and limitations. To show how protein engineering has led to improved biotherapeutic products and processes. To provide an overview of biosensor development. To review recent developments in biopharmacology and next generation biotherapeutic modalities.

Learning Outcomes

1. Discuss the applications of bulk enzymes in key industrial processes (e.g. detergents, starch processing).
2. Describe examples of the improvement of key proteins by protein engineering strategies.
3. Outline the scope and potential of biosensor technologies.
4. Outline the applications of DNA recombinant technology to the production and purification of proteins and monoclonal antibodies.
5. Provide an overview of proteomics and protein mass spectrometry analysis.
6. To describe developments in biopharmacology and next generation biotherapeutic modalities.

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full-time hours per semester
Lecture	24	No Description
Assignment Completion	5	Short Essay on assigned topic
Assignment Completion	5	Critical essay on assigned topic
Independent Study	91	No Description
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

INDUSTRIAL ENZYMES AND THEIR USES
Sources and production of industrial enzymes; enzymes in detergents; starch processing and high-fructose syrup; use of enzymes for antibiotic semisynthesis and related purposes; enzyme uses in cellulose treatment and other situations.

PROTEIN ENGINEERING
Case histories –. E.g. Erythropoietin (EPO); Insulin production and improvement via protein engineering.

BIOSENSORS
Definition & applications; design problems; developments in biosensors incl. examples.

PROTEIN PRODUCTION & PURIFICATION
The use of recombinant DNA technology for optimal protein production. Affinity purification of recombinant fusion proteins (His-tag & Thioredoxin fusions) and monoclonal antibodies therapeutics (e.g. Protein A/G, cation or anion exchange chromatography, etc.)

PROTEOMICS
An overview of proteomic analysis, practical methodologies and applications, e.g. 2D-PAGE and LC-MS for protein identification and characterisation (e.g. post translational modifications)

BIOPHARMA & RECOMBINANT PROTEINS
Introduction to Biopharmacology and the importance of protein glycosylation. Overview of some important biotherapeutics for disease treatment. Overview of next generation biotherapeutic modalities (e.g. bi-specific antibodies, antibody drug conjugates, nanobodies, etc.).

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	40%	Examination Weight	60%

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Course Work Breakdown

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

Golemis, E.A. & Adams, P.: 2014, Protein-Protein Interactions: A Molecular Cloning Manual (2nd Edition), Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, c/o Oxford University Press,
Bonner , P.: 2006, Protein Purification, Taylor & Francis,
GK Walsh: 2002, Protein Biochemistry & Biotechnology, Wiley, 978471899075
C Hardin et al.: 2001, Cloning, Gene Expression and Protein Purification, Oxford Univ Press,
Walsh, G (Ed): 2009, Post-translational modification of protein biopharmaceuticals, Wiley-Blackwell,
Walsh, G: 2007, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology: Concepts and Applications, J Wiley & Sons UK,

Other Resources

None

Programme or List of Programmes

AFU	Age Friendly University Programme
BT	BSc in Biotechnology
GCB	BSc in Genetics & Cell Biology
SHSA	Study Abroad (Science & Health)
SHSAO	Study Abroad (Science & Health)

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