Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Current Topics in Molecular Biology
Module Code	BE413
School	School of Biotechnology
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Dermot Walls Semester 2: Dermot Walls Autumn: Dermot Walls
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

Building on a knowledge of concepts in molecular biology, the module aims to promote an appreciation of the applications of molecular genetic methods in recombinant DNA work, biomedical research, molecular microbiology, and in industry- and forensic-related biological sciences. Much of the module will be topic-oriented, with emphasis on contemporary methodologies in molecular biology.

Learning Outcomes

1. Evaluate the applications of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) in research, diagnostics and forensic science
2. Outline the principle and applications of gene profiling/DNA fingerprinting methods
3. Explain the design, synthesis and applications of DNA microarrays for the purposes of SNP profiling and mRNA population analysis (transcriptomics)
4. Critically appraise real-time PCR and gene knockdown methodologies and their associated applications
5. Explain the design and applications of recombinant viral vectors
6. Evaluate and critique research data from experiments in molecular biology

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lecture	30	Three lectures per week
Independent learning	45	Reference to reading material
Directed learning	50	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

Review the applications of PCR in research diagnostics and forensic science.
Genetic Typing/DNA fingerprinting methodologies and applications.

Mitochondrial DNA and Y Chromosome DNA typing.
SNP typing methods and applications.

DNA microarray design, synthesis and applications (SNP).
SNPs and applications in Pharmacogenomics.

DNA microarray design, synthesis and applications (transcriptomics).
Real-time PCR methodologies and applications.

Short-interfering RNA and its applications.
DNA methylation and its analysis.

Recombinant viral vector design and applications.
Investigation of differential gene expression and genetic regulation during bacterial biofilm formation.

Evaluation and critique of research data in molecular biology.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	0%	Examination Weight	100%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment 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
This module is category 1

Indicative Reading List