Registry

Module Specifications

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

Module Title	Recombinant DNA Technology
Module Code	BE517
School	School of Biotechnology
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Dermot Walls Semester 2: Dermot Walls Autumn: Dermot Walls
Module Teacher	Dermot Walls
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

To provide the student with the relevant background information necessary to understand recombinant DNA technology and in particular how recombinant proteins can be manipulated and produced safely, stably and authentically using an appropriate cell-based system.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe the key features of DNA, RNA and proteins and explain the inter-relationships between these molecules
2. Review genome sequencing technologies and projects, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)-based methods, and be able to contrast the structures of eukaryotic and prokaryotic genes
3. Discuss the complex nature of protein molecules and hence the inherent issues that need to be considered when attempting to produce them in recombinant form
4. Describe the events involved in generating recombinant DNA molecules, to include cDNA synthesis, vectors and the choice of host cell
5. Discuss protein engineering, including protein tagging and mutagenesis-based strategies for generating recombinant proteins with modified properties (with case study examples including antibody engineering)
6. Describe the basis of RNA interference or gene knockdown technology and understand its applications

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lecture	16	Four sessions (4 h each)
Lecture	16	No Description
Independent learning time	59	Reference to reading material
Independent learning time	59	No Description
Assignment	50	Assignment
Assignment	50	No Description
Total Workload: 250

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 of the structure and roles of DNA, RNA and protein molecules.
Genomes and genome sequencing.

Cloning and manipulating DNA sequences in vitro.
Vectors and hosts for expressing recombinant proteins.

Transfection and selection of recombinant cells.
Protein engineering strategies -case studies.

Antibody engineering strategies -case studies.
RNA interference/gene knockdown.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	100%	Examination Weight	0%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
In Class Test	n/a	50%	n/a
Assignment	n/a	50%	n/a

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