91178 Applications of Molecular Biology
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Subject handbook information prior to 2024 is available in the Archives.
Credit points: 6 cp
Result type: Grade and marks
Requisite(s): 91132 Molecular Biology 1
These requisites may not apply to students in certain courses. See access conditions.
Anti-requisite(s): 91335 Molecular Biology 2
Description
This subject aims to provide students with an appreciation of the structure and organisation of the eukaryotic genome, providing a fundamental introduction to the 'omics' technologies including genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics. The various mechanisms by which gene expression is regulated, including transcriptional, post-transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms, as well as the roles of RNA are also covered. Knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of gene therapy for the treatment of disease, as well as the use and application of microarray and next generation sequencing technologies in biology and medicine are covered. This subject gives students an introduction to the various types of human genetic mutation that lead to disease and the mechanisms of their detection and identification. The importance of computational biology and bioinformatics for the analysis of molecular data is emphasised. The application of molecular biology for advancing human health is discussed throughout.
Subject learning objectives (SLOs)
Upon successful completion of this subject students should be able to:
| 1. | Explain and appreciate the structure, function and expression of genes of eukaryotic organisms in the context of health and disease |
|---|---|
| 2. | Conduct molecular biology experiments and bioinformatics analyses in the laboratory and link the practical applications to the theoretical background |
| 3. | Critically analyse the scientific literature and apply basic knowledge and technical skills learned to solving new problems in molecular biology |
| 4. | Interpret and critically evaluate molecular biological experimental data and communicate the results in the form of formal scientific reports |
| 5. | Work collaboratively in a team environment to discuss and solve computer-based bioinformatics problems |
| 6. | Comprehend the importance of peer-reviewed literature and research in the advancement of knowledge within the global industry of science. |
| 7. | Employ and integrate a range of technical, practical and professional skills of current practicing molecular biologists |
Course intended learning outcomes (CILOs)
This subject also contributes specifically to the development of following course intended learning outcomes:
- Explain how diseases arise and disrupt normal physiological function and appraise the technologies used to diagnose, treat, and cure diseases. (1.1)
- Collect, accurately record, interpret, and draw conclusions from data to solve real-world medical problems, and infer how the results of medical research can be translated to improve patient outcomes. (2.1)
- Evaluate ethical, social, and cultural issues in medical science in local and global contexts and work responsibly, safely and with respect to diversity and regulatory frameworks. (3.1)
- Effectively communicate medical science knowledge and research information, and the importance thereof, to a range of audiences using a variety of modes, independently and collaboratively. (5.1)
Contribution to the development of graduate attributes
Applications of Molecular Biology expands on previous microbiology and biochemistry subjects to give graduates in the Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, Medical Science and Forensic Science degree programs an opportunity to derive an understanding of the discipline and learn discipline specific laboratory and bioinformatics skills.
1. Disciplinary knowledge
An understanding of the nature, practice and importance of molecular biology to the world of biotechnology and medicine is the main topic of this subject. The importance of computational biology is emphasised. Practical classes will equip you with the ability to learn some fundamental laboratory techniques and to integrate laboratory experimentation with bioinformatics computing exercises. Lectures will provide a solid grounding on the central dogma of gene expression (DNA makes RNA makes protein). The application of molecular biology for advancing human health is discussed throughout.
2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking
This refers to the ability to acquire, develop, employ and integrate a range of technical, practical and professional skills. You will develop skills in computational biology, and use them to explore the biology of genes associated with mammalian health and disease. You will explore the biology of various human genes and gain important skills in finding and integrating knowledge on gene expression. This attribute will be assessed in the bioinformatics practical quiz.
3. Professional, Ethical and Social Responsibility
You will develop personal organisation skills, teamwork skills, laboratory skills, computing skills and data handling skills through participation in the practical and tutorial programs. You will develop, acquire, employ and integrate a range of technical, practical and professional skills that are to be found in the modern day, practicing molecular biologist.
This also refers to an awareness of the role of science within a global culture and a willingness to contribute actively to the shaping of community views on complex issues where the methods and findings of science are relevant. The impact of molecular biology, socially and economically - both globally and for individuals - will be explored in depth throughout this subject. Online media will be used to enhance this experience. The impact of molecular biology on society will be assessed in the end-of-session quiz, where topics such as the aims of the Human Genome Project, and its societal impacts, will be explored.
5. Communication
Communication skills are fostered through the practical program where the communication of laboratory results in written format, as formal professional laboratory reports, is required. The writing of scientific reports develops the capacity to organise and present information and data to effectively communicate and document scientific work. You will be assessed on your ability to communicate scientific data.
Teaching and learning strategies
In this subject, you will participate in online and face-to-face teaching and learning strategies to help you learn, clarify, discuss and develop concepts learned in the subject. These teaching and learning strategies are outlined below.
Lectures (online and pre-recorded, 2 hours per week) with lecture notes and any relevant supplementary learning resources.
Lectures will present the subject content, which will be reinforced by additional online learning content made available through CANVAS, either before (for preparation purposes), during or after the lecture (for content review). You are encouraged to engage with all the relevant online preparation and review materials to further develop your understanding of the subject content.
Practical sessions (online and face-to-face, 3 hours per week). Online computer-based and face-to-face laboratory practical classes will alternate on a weekly basis (according to the program outlined below) commencing in week 2. You will learn and undertake (a) computer based online bioinformatics analyses, as well as (b) laboratory-based practical experiences where you will obtain, analyse and communicate experimental data.
- In the online computer-based bioinformatics component, you will use various online resources to solve ‘real life’ molecular biology problems. You will conduct each week’s learning and problems online and will be able to ask questions and discuss answers with classmates through Zoom.
- In the laboratory-based component, you will work in pairs or groups to conduct laboratory investigations using modern instrumentation. You will obtain research data and report your results in data sheets or as written experimental reports. Pre-lab quizzes are provided to prepare you for the laboratory procedures you will be undertaking each week.
Online learning resources and self-paced activities (as indicated in the program and/or subject manual).
Online learning resources and activities will be provided for either preparation, self-review, or revision of subject content for your learning. These will include pre-lab preparation quizzes, pre- and post-lecture exercises and subject self-assessment quizzes.
Feedback on assessments
Feedback provided on assessments will allow you to gauge how well you are meeting the objectives of the subject. Specific opportunities for feedback are described within each of the specific assessment tasks.
Content (topics)
Lectures:
Lectures and tutorials will present the basic theoretical or practical concepts. You will be encouraged to extend this knowledge and increase your understanding of the concepts by reference to additional questions and journal articles. The lectures are intended to cover the following core knowledge:
Structure of the eukaryotic genome.
Genetic and epigenetic regulation of eukaryotic gene expression.
The cellular role(s) of RNA (i.e. mRNA, rRNA, tRNA, miRNA and others).
Protein structure and function.
Gene therapy and the application of expression systems.
Proteomics and it applications in biology and medicine.
PCR, mutations and mutation screening methodologies.
Overview and applications of microarray and next generation sequencing technologies.
Practicals:
The practical sessions (computer-based (bioinformatics) and laboratory-based experiments) will illustrate a range of important technologies used commonly in molecular biology work in both industry and research. These exercises provide training in essential skills in fundamental molecular biology techniques, including computer analysis of molecular data. The importance of experimental design and the use of appropriate controls and attention to detail is stressed. The documentation, analysis, and discussion of data required for practical reports provides practice in the analysis and interpretation of results and in effective communication of well-reasoned scientific judgments. The written practical reports also address questions relating to aspects of the technology not covered in the experiments or lectures, thereby extending the knowledge base.
Preparatory (outside of class time) materials and activities:
Each week, there may be preparatory material required to be completed before class time, and this material will be used for discussion and/or other learning purposes in the relevant classes for which it was designed. Information on preparatory material availability, its content and timing of completion are clearly provided in the subject manual and within the program.
Assessment
Assessment task 1: Bioinformatics Practical Test
| Intent: | This assessment task contributes to the development of graduate attribute(s): 1. Disciplinary knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking 3. Professional, Ethical and Social Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 1, 3, 5 and 7 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): 1.1, 2.1 and 3.1 |
| Type: | Quiz/test |
| Groupwork: | Group, individually assessed |
| Weight: | 30% |
| Length: | The test is of 2 hours duration. |
| Criteria: | Derivation of the correct answers to set questions. Ability to follow instructions and perform the appropriate analyses. Make rational judgments about the choice of software/programs to use for different problems. Competence in the use of bioinformatics programs to solve molecular biology problems. Accuracy of calculations |
Assessment task 2: Practical Assessment
| Intent: | This assessment task contributes to the development of graduate attribute(s): 1. Disciplinary knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking 5. Communication |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 1, 2, 4 and 7 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): 1.1, 2.1 and 5.1 |
| Type: | Laboratory/practical |
| Groupwork: | Group, individually assessed |
| Weight: | 30% |
| Criteria: | Correct interpretation of experimental data Ability to communicate data in written form Appropriate presentation and discussion of results Correct answers to questions Appropriate use of bioinformatics programs to answer set problems Accuracy of calculations |
Assessment task 3: End of Session Quiz
| Intent: | This assessment task contributes to the development of graduate attribute(s): 1. Disciplinary knowledge 2. Research, Inquiry and Critical Thinking 3. Professional, Ethical and Social Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Objective(s): | This assessment task addresses subject learning objective(s): 1, 3, 6 and 7 This assessment task contributes to the development of course intended learning outcome(s): 1.1, 2.1 and 3.1 |
| Type: | Quiz/test |
| Groupwork: | Individual |
| Weight: | 40% |
| Length: | The end-of-session quiz will be 2 hours in duration. |
| Criteria: | Correctness of answers to the quiz questions which test the level of knowledge and understanding of the subject material as well as the applications of molecular biology. Problem solving skills. Rational arguments and judgements relating to quiz answers. Understanding of societal implications of molecular biology knowledge and its applications. |
Minimum requirements
An overal mark of 50% or greater is required for a pass in this subject.
References
Alberts, B., Johnson, A., Lewis, J. et al. ‘Molecular Biology of the Gene’ (6th Edition). Garland Science (2014).
Alberts, B., Bray, D., Hopkin, K., et al. ‘Essential Cell Biology’ (4th Edition). Garland Science (2013).
Baxevanis, A.D. and Ouellette, B.F.F. ‘Bioinformatics: A Practical Guide to the Analysis of Genes and Proteins (3rd Edition). Wiley (2004).
Krebs, J.E., Goldstein, E.S. and Kilpatrick, S.T. ‘Lewin’s GENES XI’. Jones and Bartlett Publishers (2012).
Lodish, H., Berk, A., Kaiser, C.A., et al. ‘Molecular Cell Biology’ (7th Edition). Freeman Publishers (2012).
Watson, J.D., Baker, T.A., Bell, S.P., et al. ‘Molecular Biology of the Gene (7th Edition). Pearson Education (2013).
Brown, T.A. ‘Genomes 3’ (3rd Edition). Garland Science (2006).
Clark, D.P. and Pazdernik, N.J. ‘Molecular Biology’ (2nd Edition). Elsevier (2012).
Griffiths, A.J.F., Wessler, S.R., Carroll, S.B. and Doebley, J. ‘Introduction to Genetic Abalysis’ (10th Edition). Macmillan (Freeman) Publishers (2012).
Griffiths, A.J.F. ‘Modern Genetics Analysis: Integrating Genes and Genomes’ (2nd Edition). Freeman (2003).
Karp, G. ‘Cell and Molecular Biology: Concepts and Experiments (6th Edition). Wiley Publishers (2010).
Krebs, J.E., Goldstein, E.S. and Kilpatrick, S.T. ‘Lewin’s Essential Genes’ (3rd Edition). Jones and Bartlett (2013).
Strachan, T. and Read, A.P. ‘Human Molecular Genetics’ (4th Edition). Garland Science (2010).
Weaver, R.F. ‘Molecular Biology’ (4th Edition). McGraw Hill (2007).
Other resources
No specific text has been set for this subject, however there is a wide range of both molecular biology and molecular technology books in the library. Some of the books listed below (or an earlier version) are held in the library.
Molecular Biology of RNA. Elliott D. (2010) Oxford University Press.
Biotechnology (2009) Applying the genetic revolution. Clark D.P. Elsevier.
Molecular Biology: from Genes to Proteins. (2008) Tropp, B. Jones and Bartlett Publishers.
Genomes, Browsers and databases. (2008) Schattner, P. Cambridge University Press.
A number of molecular biology related websites and online resources are available. Links and resources relevant to specific topics covered in the lectures will be provided at the lecture and will be made available in CANVAS.