BIT373 - Biotechniques

Subject Title
Biotechniques

Subject Description
This laboratory course is an introduction to the fundamental practices of biological macromolecular biochemistry as would be used in a modern biotechnology laboratory. Topics include the requirement of buffers for biotechnique use. Online exercises and activities focus on the theory regarding the isolation and analysis of proteins and biologically relevant small molecules. Application of various forms of chromatography, dialysis and membrane filtration to the separation and analysis of these molecules are discussed. The use of assays to detect and quantify biologically relevant molecules will be explored with topics such as immunoblot analysis, enzyme use and assays for biotechnology and the detection and quantification of biological molecules such as proteins and nucleic acids.

The combination of multi-step analyses for inference of conclusions in the biotechniques lab will be presented using the results from multiple practical techniques of biotechnological assays. Practical techniques include stock buffer and working solution preparation, accurate and precise techniques, colorimetric protein assays, column chromatography, and electrophoretic separation of macromolecules. Students calculate mathematical parameters of interest through the processes studied and use computer software to present graphical and tabular results and introductory statistical analyses in experimental error. A hands-on approach and the development of practical laboratory skills, time management for efficient laboratory work, and generation of accurate and precise data are emphasized.

Biochemistry (BIC 373) is a mandatory co-requisite course for this subject; the theory behind the techniques used in lab will be discussed both in the lab (BIT 373) and in the lecture (BIC373) co-requisites.

 

Credit Status
One credit towards the BTA program.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. Choose safe, efficient, independent and cooperative behaviors expected within a biotechnology laboratory environment.
2. Implement preparatory approaches for efficient, accurate, and GLP compliant record-keeping for various data generated in the biotechnology lab.
3. Demonstrate theoretical and practical selection and preparation of biotechnology relevant buffers for future use.
4. Relate solution pH and molecular charge, pI, or pKa to titration data and isolation techniques utilized in the biotechnology lab.
5. Connect principles of solubility and polarity to the separation and isolation of biologically relevant molecules in the biotechnology lab.
6. Apply column chromatography techniques including gas, ion exchange and molecular weight exclusion to the separation, identification and quantitative analysis of biologically relevant molecules.
7. Recognize the strengths and weaknesses to various spectrophotometric techniques utilized in the biotechnology lab for the accurate and precise detection and quantification of proteins.
8. Graphically present generated data and calculated error in measurement, when relevant, for a variety of biotechnological activities and chromatographic experiments.
9. Combine results from a variety of methods utilized in biotechnological experiments to present conclusive qualitative and quantitative analyses of biological molecules.

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.

    •  Locate, select, organize, and document information using appropriate technology and information systems.

    •  Analyze, evaluate, and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.