Concepts of Biotechnology

The unit of study aims to:
* Discuss the key features of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cell structures

* Study the structures and functions of major biological molecules

* Examine the key concepts of biochemistry and genetics

* Introduce molecular biology and recombinant DNA technology

* Develop essential skills in basic microscopy, biochemical and molecular analyses.

 

After successfully completing this unit, students should be able to demonstrate:

* An understanding of the basic principles of metabolic processes within the cell and how these processes can be harnessed for biotechnology.

* An understanding of the central role of the genetic material, DNA, in the flow of genetic information in the cell and in influencing the structural and functional characteristics of organisms.

* An understanding of some of the basic principles of manipulation of DNA for useful applications in a number of areas such as the environment, medicine and agriculture.

* Basic knowledge regarding the structure and properties of microorganisms, including those of clinical, environmental and industrial importance.

* A variety of laboratory exercises where students can apply their theoretical knowledge to practical situations and demonstrations, in the above areas.

Students will be provided with feedback during the assessment for this unit of study on their progress in attaining the following generic skills:
* analysis skills,

* problem solving skills,

* communications skills,

* ability to tackle unfamiliar problems,

*ability to work independently

* Overview of main types of metabolism. Energy transformations within the cell, role of enzymes and their action, fates of metabolites.
* Microorganisms: overview of broad types of bacteria, viruses, protists and other microorganisms. Growth and handling. Structure, function, modes of replication or transmission of selected bacteria, viruses.

* Roles of microorganisms in disease and in environmental cycles, industrial applications of microorganisms, use of microorganisms in biotechnology.

* Brief overview of genetics.

* Brief overview of DNA structure, the flow of genetic information, DNA replication, gene transcription, protein translation
* Introduction to biotechnology: basic principles of various techniques of genetic analysis, genetic engineering and biotechnology.
* Applications of above techniques in human health and welfare, medicine, agriculture and the environment. Introduction to the human genome project, gene therapy, molecular diagnostics, forensics, creation and uses of transgenic plants and animals, animal cloning, use of microorganisms in industrial biotechnology.
* Introduction to some of the ethical, legal, and social issues and scientific issues associated with the above technologies.
* Relevant practical exercises in the above areas.