FP2S51 - Biochemistry and Biotechnology 01 Sep 2020 - 31 Aug 2023 | Version 5
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | FP2S51 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Biochemistry and Biotechnology | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Biological and Forensic Sciences | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Biological Science | ||
| Module Leader: | Paul Jones | ||
| Module Team: | Jeremy Lewis, Samantha O'Connell, Deborah Crockard, Hannah Minton, Helen Burn | ||
| First Intended Intake: | AUG 2016 | Final Year of Intake: | |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 20 | Credit Level: | 5 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 0 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 100388 - forensic science | ||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 100 | ||
Document Version Information
| Version | 5 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Sep 2020 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2023 |
Module Aims
1. To introduce students to DNA profiling techniques and the National DNA database, and selected other topics in the fields of biochemistry and biotechnology.
2. To give the student practical laboratory experience in biochemical and microbiological techniques.
3. To give students the opportunity for group work during a research exercise into a biotechnology company.
Content Summary
DNA Profiling and the National DNA database: Historical development of DNA profiling and its use in human identification and forensic investigation. DNA profiling using multilocus and single locus probes. PCR, STR profiling, mitochondrial DNA analysis, low copy number DNA analysis. The role of the NDNAD, legislation and use as an investigative tool. Limitations of the NDNAD.
Immune system: Innate and adaptive immunity Cells of the immune system Lymphoid tissues and organs Soluble factors: antibodies, cytokines etc Key systems: complement, the MHC complex Measurement of effectors of the immune response Immune interactions Antigen recognition and lymphocyte activation Complement activation and consequences Inflammation. Antibody-mediated effector mechanisms. Cell-mediated effector mechanisms. Central role of B and T cells. Immunity and infectious diseases eg AIDS. Autoimmune responses. Overview of immunoassays for qualitative and quantitiative analysis of proteins eg identifying suspect meat in processed meat products.
Metabolism: Basic concepts and design. Overview of coupled, interconnecting reactions. The oxidation of carbon fuels as a source of cellular energy. Metabolic pathways and the recurring motifs. Metabolism of poisons and toxins and identification of metabolites as markers.
Enzymes: basic concepts and Kinetics. Specificity of catalysts. The Michaelis-Menton model account for the kinetic properties of enzymes. Inhibition of enzymes by specific molecules and substances. Vitamins as precursors to coenzymes.
Biotechnology and gene manipulation: Overview of ethical and social issues surrounding gene technology. Plasmids and their structure. Plasmid DNA as vectors. Restriction enzymes Producing recombinant DNA. Sticky and blunt ends.
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 24 |
| Tutorial | 12 |
| Practical classes and workshops | 10 |
| Independent Study | 108 |
| Directed Study | 46 |
| Total Hours Selected | 200 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Understand the cellular and molecular foundation of living things and have an appreciation of the fundamentals of genetics. |
| LO2 | Appreciate some of the ways in which biochemistry and biotechnology can be applied in practice to forensic or analytical science. |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written Examination | Written Examination - Open Book (Unseen) 1 | Open book with an extra 30 minutes provided to students for technical issues with uploading via Turnitin. | 50 | N/A | 40 | No | 40 |
| Practical Assessment (EX) | Practical Examination 1 | Practical Work | 480 | N/A | 60 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Written Examination - Open Book (Unseen) 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Practical Examination 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |