What will I learn on this module?
This module is divided into four blocks. In the first block you will be introduced to the concept of the central dogma of Molecular Biology with the aid of lectures on DNA structure and function, DNA replication, Transcription, RNA Processing and Translation. This is followed by a second block in which you will learn about Gene Regulation. The knowledge gained from the first block are vital for your understanding of this second block which will entail discussions on Prokaryotic gene Expression as well as Eukaryotic Gene Expression, and Translational Regulation. You will also learn about the mechanisms of Antisense, siRNA and micro RNA in the second block. In the third block of this module, you will learn about Recombinant DNA and Biotechnology with the aid of lectures on Restriction Endonucleases and Plasmid DNA manipulation, Cloning, Screening and making Genomic Libraries. You will also learn about the importance and techniques of PCR, Reverse Transcriptase and Real Time PCR and how these can be applied in evaluating DNA and RNA molecules in the second block. In the third block of this module, you will learn about the Omics as emerging/ developing field of Molecular Biology. In this third block, understanding of Recombinant DNA and Biotechnology is assumed. The third block will be tackled with lectures on Genomics, Transcriptomics, Proteomics and Bioinformatics. The Molecular principles and mechanisms of manipulating plants and animals to make transgenic plants and transgenic animals respectively, will also be discussed in the third block as an extension of DNA Biotechnology which was discussed in block two. In the fourth and final block of this module, you will apply the knowledge you have gained in the first three modules towards understanding the molecular basis and molecular mechanisms of disease and how diseases may be treated or cured at the molecular level. In this fourth block you will have lectures on topics like Gene therapy, Molecular Medicine and Forensics, Cell Cycle Regulation and Cancer, Mechanism of Stem cell Self-Renewal and Cancer, and Apoptosis.
How will I learn on this module?
You will learn through content delivery modalities that include; lectures, learning in a small group setting, directed learning activities and self-directed study. St. George’s University actively promotes technology-enhanced learning through the use of course management software (SAKAI), interactive audience response (TurningPoint) and an online testing platform (ExamSoft). All information relevant to the module including; syllabus, objectives, timetable, staff contact details and assessment will be posted on the SAKAI module site. You will be provided with dedicated online learning resources for all components of the module encompassing: lecture notes, key texts, practice questions, directed learning activities, along with both formative and summative assessment. Exam feedback delivered through ExamSoft will provide an overview of your strengths and weaknesses across categories and subject areas for further improvement. Feedback will also be afforded to you through clicker questions within each lecture and weekly formative assessments. Formative feedback is further supplemented across all modules of the DipHE Medical Sciences programme after lectures or during office hours aligned to the assessment and feedback pillars in the programme framework for Northumbria awards.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
Academic members of staff provide support during office hours and via email to clarify concepts and/or direct you to relevant resources You will also have the opportunity to participate in supplemental small group sessions led by a tutor or demonstrator to help you to comprehend and apply key concepts covered in lecture. Online practice questions are provided to help you evaluate your comprehension of module content and to help you grasp key concepts. All teaching and assessment material, including web-based practice problems and quizzes, case reports and other supportive material, is posted on the electronic course management site (SAKAI) and announcements regarding any changes in scheduled delivery will be posted on the module site and emailed to all students. Detailed objectives, practice problems, web based practice quizzes, and other supportive material are posted to the course management site to help guide you through the module. The discussion forum folder on SAKAI is a powerful tool of the course where you may post your questions regarding administrative as well as academic issues and will be encouraged to take part in the discussion. Forums are monitored by Academic members of staff. Academic, learning and personal support is provided through the SGU offices of the Dean of Basic Science, Department of Educational Services and Dean of Students.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Describe the transmission of hereditary information through applying knowledge of the processes of DNA replication, transcription and translation.
2. Understand how proteins and enzymes regulate the biological processes of DNA replication, transcription and translation.
3. Describe how DNA can be manipulated to facilitate understanding of gene function, analyse gene sequence and genetically modify organisms.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
4. Develop effective approaches to study & learning, including self-management and self-evaluation & contribute effectively in partnership with others as a member of a team.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Recognise & consider moral, ethical and/or legal issues inherent in the advancement of biomedical science.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment is provided through practice questions hosted on the electronic educational platform, Discussions in small groups during supplemental Instructions, and via in-class clicker questions during each lecture.
Professionalism and skills proficiency will be formatively assessed through in class Clicker questions, quizzes and examinations.
Summative assessment
1. MCQ Exam (MLO 1,2,3,4,5)
2. MCQ Exam (MLO 1,2,3,4,5)
3. MCQ Exam (MLO 1,2,3,4,5)
4. MCQ Exam(MLO 1,2,3,4,5)
5. On-line Quiz (MLO 1,2,3,4,5)
Pre-requisite(s)
AP0421 Biochemistry
AP0423 Genetics
Co-requisite(s)
AP0429 Molecular Biology Lab
Module abstract
Molecular Biology has a wide applicability to the field of medicine. As we explore the latest knowledge in the field of Molecular Biology and its relevance to the field of medicine you will develop an understanding of the molecular mechanisms that biological organisms use to store and preserve genetic information, the means by which they use that information to create functional biological structures, and the techniques that are commonly used to manipulate and study these processes in the laboratory.
Course info
Credits 10
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 5 Year Programme
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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