Study abroad in Edinburgh

Course finder

Semester 2

Molecules, Genes and Cells 1 (BILG08015)

Subject

Biology

College

SCE

Credits

20

Normal Year Taken

1

Delivery Session Year

2023/2024

Pre-requisites

Course Summary

Structure, organisation, and experimental investigation of eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells. Structure and replication of nucleic acids. Structure and function of proteins, methods of purification and investigation, plus some particular examples. Cytoskeleton and cell motility. Biological membranes. Cell growth and differentiation.

Course Description

Molecules, Genes and Cells 1 is a service course provided by the School of Biological Sciences, primarily for students taking degrees in Biomedical Sciences.This course focuses on the molecular biology of cells and the topics covered provide an essential foundation for all Biological Sciences degree programmes. The course examines the function of molecules, like proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids within the context of living cells. In-depth study of protein structure and function is covered, and the molecular techniques used in protein purification and analysis. The structure of nucleic acids is also covered, including mechanisms of DNA replication and the regulated expression of genetic information. Genetic engineering is described in detail and how it is used for biotechnological applications. Cell membrane structure and function, the cytoskeleton and the cell cycle are further subjects in the course.The major skills that you will develop in this course include: familiarisation with the major molecular constituents of the cell and their functional relationships; experience in a variety of molecular biological techniques through practical sessions; and problem solving through independent research and collaboration.

Assessment Information

Written Exam 40%, Coursework 60%, Practical Exam 0%

Additional Assessment Information

Assessed Problem - consisting of a set of short-answer questions and a mini-essay. Practical Quizzes x 4. Lecture and Tutorial Quizzes x 4. Degree Examination.

view the timetable and further details for this course

Disclaimer

All course information obtained from this visiting student course finder should be regarded as provisional. We cannot guarantee that places will be available for any particular course. For more information, please see the visiting student disclaimer:

Visiting student disclaimer