Molecular Biology

Code: BIO12412L

6 ECTS

Duration: 15 weeks/156 hours

Scientific Area: Biological Sciences

Teaching languages: Portuguese

Languages of tutoring support: Portuguese, English

Regime de Frequência: Presencial

Presentation

The unit intends to provide the theoretical bases and simultaneously address the implications of the discoveries of Molecular Biology, namely those related to the control of genetic expression and DNA replication, in the understanding of the diverse cellular phenomena, in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

Sustainable Development Goals

2. Erradicar a fome - Acabar com a fome, alcançar a segurança alimentar e melhoria da nutrição e promover a agricultura sustentável.

3. Saúde de qualidade - Assegurar uma vida saudável e promover o bem-estar para todos, em todas as idades.

4. Educação de qualidade - Assegurar a educação inclusiva, e equitativa e de qualidade, e promover oportunidades de aprendizagem ao longo da vida para todos.

7. Energias renováveis e acessíveis - Garantir acesso à energia barata, confiável, sustentável e renovável para todos.

11. Cidades e comunidades sustentáveis - Tornar as cidades e os assentamentos humanos inclusivos, seguros, resilientes e sustentáveis.

Learning Goals

To provide the students concepts regarding molecular biology and genetics, with special emphasis on
control of gene expression and DNA replication both in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Moreover, we intend
to approach the main techniques of molecular biology, essential for studying fundamental biological
questions as well as for practical applications of genetic engineering in particular in health, agriculture etc.
Students are encouraged to develop skills concerning molecular biology techniques in the laboratory,
such as DNA and RNA analysis, PCR, gene cloning, etc. Students should acquire basic knowledge of the
studied molecular phenomena and the ability to interpret new situations and to be competent in planning
experiments and interpreting results involving several practical methodologies previously studied. It is
expected that students will develop their skills also on data base analysis and bioinformatic tools during
computer sessions.

Part I. DNA REPLICATION
1. Genes and chromosomes
2. Replication of DNA
3. Recombination and transposition
4. Mutation and repair mechanisms
Part II. GENE EXPRESSION
5. Transcription
6. Translation
7. Regulation of gene expression
Part III. TECHNIQUES AND APPLICATIONS
8. Analytical and preparative methods in Molecular Biology
9. Techniques in molecular biology. Recombinant DNA techniques. Bioinformatics.
10. Applications in genetic engineering.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical classes consist in oral presentations, supported by audiovisual methods (PPT, video, etc.), maintaining interaction with students through discussion of current topics and quick response questions posted via the web.

The first practical and laboratory classes will cover specific techniques, with analysis of scientific articles and discussion periods. The articles are selected to present the most common molecular biology techniques. Subsequently, students carry out a small research project, from DNA extraction to sequence analysis (bioinformatics classes). Students perform some of the most commonly used laboratory techniques in molecular biology in the laboratory, namely DNA extraction, PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis. In the practical Bioinformatics classes, students use web tools and specific software to analyse the sequences previously obtained.

Assessment

Continuous assessment: two written tests (each worth 50%). Short questionnaires/assignments may be given throughout the academic year, worth a maximum of 10% of the final mark for the theoretical and/or practical component.
Final assessment: written examination.

All tests and examinations will consist of two elements: one for the theoretical component and one for the practical component.

The final mark is calculated by weighting the two components: theoretical component (70%) and practical component (30%). To pass the curricular unit, a minimum mark of 9.5 must be obtained in each of the components (theoretical and practical).

Note: If there are indications of non-compliance with the assessment rules, fraud, or doubts regarding the authorship of the answers during the assessment, teachers may ask the student to provide individual explanations about their performance. If the student fails to attend the meeting, refuses to provide explanations, or is unable to adequately justify their performance, the grade may be considered invalid.