Module Details

Module Code: ZBIO C2104
Module Title: Molecular Biology 2
Title: Molecular Biology 2
Module Level:: 6
Credits:: 5
Module Coordinator: Paula Rankin
Module Author:: Rosemary O'Hara
Domains:  
Module Description: To introduce students to the fundamentals of the theory and practical aspects of Molecular Biology.
 
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to:
# Learning Outcome Description
LO1 An introduction to extrachromosomal DNA elements such as plasmids, phage, transposons and insertion sequences. DNA cloning, restriction enzymes, expression systems, sequencing methods. PCR, DNA fingerprinting. Introduction to bioinformatics, molecular taxonomy and phylogenetic trees.
LO2 Discuss differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic genetic organisation and expression. Describe and give an overview of genetically modified microorganisms: hazards, risk and perceptions, containment systems. Examples of molecular biology in biotechnology, biopharma, forensics.
LO3 At the end of Semester 2 practical component the student is expected to: Demonstrate a range of molecular biology techniques, safely and efficiently. Be able to monitor, record and analyse experimental data. Demonstrate effective group work and good communication skills.
Dependencies
Module Recommendations

This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is recommended before enrolment in this module.
No recommendations listed
Co-requisite Modules
No Co-requisite modules listed
Additional Requisite Information
None.
 
Indicative Content
Informational Macromolecules
An introduction to organisation and cell structure in prokaryotic and eucaryotic organisms. Structural components of informational macromolecules: purines and pyrimidines; nucleosides and nucleotides; basic nucleic acid structure. Occurrence and functions of nucleic acids; primary structure of nucleic acids. Secondary structure: the Double Helix. Double-stranded RNA. Tertiary structure of DNA –the Superhelix. DNA organisation in prokaryotic and eucaryotic organisms. Physical properties of DNA with particular emphasis on thermal denaturation. Renaturation and hybridisations of DNA. Restriction and modification. A brief introduction to nucleic acid sequencing
Transfer of Genetic Information
An introduction to the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology, biological information flow: replication. transcription and translation. DNA replication in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. RNA transcription in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Structure and function of RNA: mRNA, tRNA and their role in protein synthesis. The Genetic Code, codons, anticodons. Translation: the fundamental principles of protein synthesis. Posttranslational modification.
Practical
At the end of the practical component the student is expected to be: Competent in the manipulation and handling and disposal of recombinant organisms and molecules with due respect to cGLP and health and safety, monitor, record and analyse experimental data in molecular biology, operate the range of instrumentation specified safely and effectively in the laboratory and work effectively in a group and demonstrate good written and oral communication skills
Module Content & Assessment
Assessment Breakdown%
Continuous Assessment20.00%
Practical30.00%
End of Module Formal Examination50.00%

Assessments

Full Time

Continuous Assessment
Assessment Type Other % of Total Mark 20
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 1,2
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Continuous assessment will take the form, of in class tests, specific assignments and presentations
No Project
Practical
Assessment Type Practical/Skills Evaluation % of Total Mark 30
Timing n/a Learning Outcomes 3
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
Practical skills and competencies will be assessed via a correctly kept laboratory notebook (which will be submitted on time), observation of skills and a practical exam.
End of Module Formal Examination
Assessment Type Formal Exam % of Total Mark 50
Timing End-of-Semester Learning Outcomes 1,2
Non-marked No
Assessment Description
No Description
Reassessment Requirement
Exam Board
It is at the discretion of the Examination Board as to what the qualifying criteria are.

SETU Carlow Campus reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment

 

Module Workload

Workload: Full Time
Workload Type Workload Category Contact Type Workload Description Frequency Average Weekly Learner Workload Hours
Lecture Contact Lecture 12 Weeks per Stage 2.00 24
Laboratory Contact Practical class 12 Weeks per Stage 2.00 24
Estimated Learner Hours Non Contact Independent learning 15 Weeks per Stage 5.13 77
Total Weekly Contact Hours 4.00
 
Module Resources
Recommended Book Resources
  • Despo Papachristodoulou, Alison Snape, William H. Elliott, Daphne C. Elliott. (2018), Bioichemistry and Molecular Biology, 4th. OUP Oxford, p.640, [ISBN: 0198768117].
  • Burton E Tropp. (2012), Principles of Molecular Biology, 4th. Jones and Bartlett Publishers, p.752, [ISBN: 1449689175].
  • William S. Klug, Michael R. Cummings, Charlotte A Spencer, Michael A. Palladino ; with contributions by Darrell Killian. (2014), Concepts of genetics, 11th. Boston; Pearson, [ISBN: 9780321948915].
This module does not have any article/paper resources
Other Resources
Discussion Note: