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2022/23 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

BLGY3109 Applied Genetics

20 creditsClass Size: 100

Module manager: Laura Dixon
Email: fbsldi@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2022/23

Pre-requisite qualifications

BLGY1237 Introduction to Genetics

Module replaces

BLGY3110 Applied Genetics

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Objectives

The key aim of the module is to provide students with an understanding of how the application of genetics can be used in therapeutic and crop development
The key objectives are:
1. To explain the techniques of genetic transformation and develop practical skills within the 2 practicals in transient gene expression in cells;
2. To explain how genetic selection can be used to advance crop development;
3. To explain some of the additional consequences of genetic transformation which need to be considered.

Learning outcomes
On completion of this module students will:
1. Develop practical skills in genetic transformation supported by an in depth understanding of the process and its applications;
2. Be able to evaluate expression systems for therapeutics and develop processes for production of novel products;
3. Analyse and appraise the major approaches for directed evolution at the molecular and cellular level;
4. Integrate data from multiple sources with a focus in primary research literature;
5. Formulate, argue and support a position regarding genetic modification.

Skills outcomes
The presentation will enable the development of logical argument in support of a proposition related to current issues of public concern surrounding genetic manipulation and genetic technologies in general.


Syllabus

Topics covered:
- The use of cells as “factories” for the expression of therapeutic compounds;
- The different methods of genetic transformation which are available depending on the species and the application;
- How genetic regions of interest can be identified;
- CRISPR as a gene editing technique;
- syllabus input from MCB.

Teaching methods

Delivery typeNumberLength hoursStudent hours
Lectures141.0014.00
Practical23.006.00
Private study hours80.00
Total Contact hours20.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)100.00

Private study

Background reading for lectures and seminars.

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Feedback on the presentation and exam essay questions.

Methods of assessment


Coursework
Assessment typeNotes% of formal assessment
Presentation10 minute group presentation20.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)20.00

The presentations will be set on a genetic topic which is controversial with one student presenting the pro and another the con for each topic. These topics will not be covered in the class and will require critical thinking to identify the import aspects of the arguments required for each presentation. The presentations will be given in groups of six (1 hr per lecturer) and will therefore cover 3 topics per session.


Exams
Exam typeExam duration% of formal assessment
Online Time-Limited assessment24 hr 80.00
Total percentage (Assessment Exams)80.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 22/07/2022 13:33:29

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