Aims and Fit of Module

This module aims to provide you with an understanding of the fundamentally important processes involved in the mechanism and regulation of gene expression mainly in eukaryotes. It also introduces you to the range of biological mechanisms that control structure and stability of the genetic material, DNA, mainly in the context of micro-organisms, using mainly Escherichia coli and Sacchromyces cerevisiae as the prokaryotic and eukaryotic model systems. It builds on the Semester 1Principles of Molecular Biology, and assumes knowledge gained in BIOL146 with the intention of preparing you for Honours schools including Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology.

Learning outcomes

A.	Describe promoter structure, transcription initiation and its regulation in eukaryotes.

B.	Summarize how initial transcripts become modified via RNA processing and how the mature mRNA molecules are translated into protein.


C.	Understand how transcription, processing and translation are regulated in higher organisms to enable cells to control the overall expression of their genes.


D.	Determine how these processes can go wrong in certain diseases.


E.	Outline DNA replication, DNA damage and mutation. 



F.	Acquire knowledge DNA repair, genetic transfer systems, transposition and genetic recombination



G.	Acquire knowledge of how these principles have been developed and applied to other areas of biology, and know the methods and appropriate approaches required to solve problems in this area.



H.	Acquire knowledge on two additional  subjects (1) “Epigenetics in gene regulation” and (2) “Epigenetics and drug discovery in pharmaceutical industry” 

Method of teaching and learning

Course content will be delivered primarily via standard lectures, that will be accompanied by suitable lecturehandouts. Students will also be guided to sections of specific textbooks and if reading of specific reviews or literature sources is required then copies of these will be made available in the library for use by the students.At intervals during the module, revision lectures/exercises (up to 3 per module) will allow the students to self assess their understanding of the course.