Molecular Nutrition
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| BIOS3030 | Biosciences | 3 | 20 | Spring UK |
- Code
- BIOS3030
- School
- Biosciences
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
This module will examine the regulatory effects of nutrients, either directly or indirectly, on cellular signalling processes and gene expression and how this influences metabolism and growth in eukaryotic systems. The mechanisms of controlling gene expression will be described. The module will explore the regulation of signalling processes as well as gene expression and the potential for manipulating metabolic processes through nutrient supply. The module will seek to enable an understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which nutrients regulate cell function, the basis of their effects on whole organisms and how variation in genomic sequence is likely to impact on nutrients' influence on gene expression.
Target Students
BSc/MSci Nutrition, BSc/MSci Animal Science and BSc/MSci Biotechnology students.
Classes
- One 4-hour practicum each week for 4 weeks
- One 2-hour-30-minute lecture each week for 18 weeks
Assessment
- 20% Coursework 1: Data interpretation and bioinformatics computer-based exercise including interpretation of experimental data; Computer-based (ExamSys) assessment and written assessment (2000 words)
- 30% Coursework 2: Lab Report
- 25% Exam 1 (2-hour): Examsys Inclass exam - Short answer question set
- 25% Exam 2 (2-hour): Examsys Inclass exam - Short answer question set
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
Through the provision of relevant biochemical and molecular biology information, this module aims to enable students to gain an understanding of the regulatory effects of nutrients, either directly or indirectly, on gene expression and how this influences metabolism and growth in eukaryotic systems. To demonstrate through coursework and/or examination an understanding of the factors involved in regulation of signalling processes and gene expression and the potential for manipulating metabolic processes through nutrient supply.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
1) Explain the structure of the genome and mechanisms by which genes are expressed and translated into proteins.
2) Explain the molecular mechanisms by which nutrients regulate gene expression.
3) Illustrate how experimental methodologies can be used to assess how nutrients influence gene expression.
4) Analyse molecular biology and biochemical experimental data generated from experiments examining the effects of a nutrient on gene expression.