Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| BIOS3018 | Biosciences | 3 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- BIOS3018
- School
- Biosciences
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
The module begins with a review of DNA structure, gene transcription and protein synthesis and will then review gene cloning, protein expression vectors and protein analysis. Advanced aspects of protein expression, stability and secretion are then introduced followed by a review of the application of gene engineering to facilitate protein production for the biotechnology industry. The practical classes provide experience of detailed planning and execution of practical protein expression and purification, including macromolecular separation/analysis. The coursework exercise provides training in analysis of data and publishing research papers.
Target Students
Optional for BSc Biotechnology, BSc Microbiology or other degrees covering related content.
Classes
- One 1-hour-30-minute tutorial
- One 3-hour practicum each week for 6 weeks
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 9 weeks
1 day per week throughout the autumn semester to include formal lectures (approx 33 h) together with 6 x 4h practical classes during the autumn semester (approx 24 h) and 1 x 1.5h tutorials during the whole year.
Assessment
- 30% Coursework 1: Manuscript
- 20% Coursework 2: Case Study
- 50% Exam (3-hour): Open Book examination
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
To enable students to comprehend the opportunities that protein engineering provides in applied microbiology and to appreciate some of the practical limitations associated with technology. Students will gain a detailed understanding of prokaryotic protein expression and examples of its application to biotechnology. Practical classes and seminars will provide an insight into the necessary constraints and practicalities of experimental design and execution. The major coursework assignment introduces students to the rigour required for writing scientific papers.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module, students will be able to:
- Explain advanced aspects of protein synthesis in bacteria and how bacteria are used to produce recombinant proteins.
- Understand the differences between using bacteria or eukaryotic cells for producing recombinant proteins.
- Evaluate the most appropriate techniques used for preparation and purification of a particular given protein.
- Design and implement practical experimental procedures for protein expression and purification.
- Process, analyse and present data as scientific manuscripts based on laboratory data appropriate for publication.
- Manage and organise time efficiently and work to deadlines by using flexible and effective approaches to study.