精东传媒app

An understanding of the theory and techniques of cell and molecular biology are becoming an essential component in the research and medical diagnostic spheres. The course will provide the student with theoretical knowledge in basic molecular biology and cell biology. During the course students will gain an insight into the nature of cellular substructure, vesicle trafficking, protein post-translational modifications and targeting and control of the cell cycle. The students will also explore the nature of cells at the molecular level as well as the current molecular technologies that enable such information to be derived. Finally, the students will gain knowledge of the nature of the molecular and other technologies that have advanced the analytical options in a research laboratory.

The course is presented in two modules: in the first, the course introduces the nature of gene organisation, replication and expression in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems. The course also provides an overview of molecular technologies including recombinant DNA techniques and standard molecular methods such as sequencing, RNAi, CRISPR-Cas9, in situ hybridisation, northern and western Blot assays, PCR, rtPCR and qPCR. These procedures underpin state of the art research and medical diagnostic assays. Applications of this technology are discussed. In the second module the course explores the nature of cellular ultrastructure; protein post-translational modification and targeting; vesicle transport in cells; regulation of the cell cycle and apoptosis.

This course contains a highly recommended residential school for both external and on-campus students (non-attendance will mean the student misses both an element for assessment preparation and an element of assessment).

On completion of this course students will be able to:

1. describe the current concepts of DNA structure maintenance and repair;
2. explain the basic processes involved in gene replication, transcription and translation in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems;
3. compare basic tools used in recombinant DNA technology including: enzymes, plasmids and techniques for cloning and characterisation;
4. explain the practical application of a range of basic molecular techniques including sequencing, RNAi, CRISPR-Cas9, in situ hybridisation, northern and western Blot, PCR, rtPCR and qPCR;
5. describe processes of post-translational protein modification;
6. compare and contrast the role of the cytoskeleton and the structure, function and maintenance of cell organelles;
7. explain cellular trafficking, cell cycle control mechanisms and apoptosis.