RNA Biology and CRISPR Technology in cell function and disease

Code School Level Credits Semesters
LIFE3114 Life Sciences 3 10 Autumn UK
Code
LIFE3114
School
Life Sciences
Level
3
Credits
10
Semesters
Autumn UK

Summary

Since the chromosome of H. influenzae was sequenced in 1995 hundreds of thousands of genomes have been analysed, revealing surprises that include how abundant, non-coding RNAs can control cellular processes, and how failure of these processes can trigger disease. As a result, there is a now growing understanding of the fundamental importance of non-coding RNAs in all regulatory networks and cellular mechanisms.  
 
The first part of this module will describe the role of non-coding RNAs in the regulation of biological processes, focusing on new and exciting discoveries in micro-RNAs, piwi-RNAs and long non-coding RNAs. Information will be presented and linked to experimental models of neuron development and function, currently being investigated at the University of Nottingham. 
 
Throughout, this module will describe these RNA molecules and their associated proteins, and how their discovery revolutionised how we understand biological systems, causes of disease, and the development of novel approaches such as RNA silencing and CRISPR for use in medical research and biotechnology. Similar to the first part of the module, students will be taught about these RNA technologies by those using them directly in state-of-the-art research projects. 
 
There is a need for students to learn about this emerging and cutting-edge knowledge, because it is important to fully appreciate biochemistry and molecular biology across all organisms. Moreover, it will provide a detailed background on one of the fastest evolving areas of cellular and molecular biology, with incredible promise in the development of future therapeutic options across multiple disease backgrounds. 

Target Students

Available to all students registered for a Single Honours degree in Biochemistry, Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Biochemistry and Genetics, Genetics and Biology,with or without another subject. Also available to Biotechnology students who have taken LIFE2092 or LIFE2094.Available to JYA/Erasmus students.Students from other degree courses need the module convenors’permission in writing to select this module and may be removed from the enrolment without this.Students cannot take this module and LIFE3029.

Co-requisites

Modules you must take in the same academic year, or have taken in a previous year, to enrol in this module:

Classes

This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc

Assessment

Assessed by end of designated period

Educational Aims

The module will deliver knowledge at the cutting-edge of RNA molecular biology. Students will gain understanding of how the biological use of RNA is central to regulating life, emerging from 30 years of DNA genome sequencing projects.It will highlight recent new use of RNA in vaccination against SARS-CoV2/Covid-19.Emphasis will be placed on (a)Different types of non-coding RNAs, (b)hownon-codingRNA molecules function in fundamental biology, and (c) how recent developments in our understanding ofnatural RNAbased mechanismsare beingharnessedinbasic research (e.g.microRNAs),biotechnology (e.g. CRISPR) and medicine (e.g.immunisation andantisense therapy).

Learning Outcomes

Students will be enabled to discuss and understand the molecular biology of RNA and its growing importance in cell biology. This information will be applied in the novel areas of biotechnology relevant to CRISPR-Cas immunity and CRISPR-RNA based genetic editing, together with novel therapeutic approaches using RNA vaccines and antisense technology in tackling human diseases. The knowledge gained from this module is directly relevant to those interested in biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, medicine and how biotechnology emerges from knowledge of fundamental biology. 

Students will be able to excel in this module by demonstrating self-directed and independent learning after continuous guidance from the lecturers in lectures and workshops. Students will be encouraged to develop confidence to read and understand cutting-edge research papers, enhancing their learning experience in this area of study, but also giving them transferable skills that can be applied to other modules. 

Conveners

View in Curriculum Catalogue
Last updated 07/01/2025.