MOB673 - Molecular Genetics

Outline information
Semester
Schools offering this subject
Last revision date 2023-10-02 00:55:24.452
Last review date 2023-12-04 00:15:12.525

Subject Title
Molecular Genetics

Subject Description
This course endeavors to further augment implementable knowledge, and experience with techniques currently used in molecular biology and modern biotechnology. The expectation will be to integrate and understand molecular techniques in their broadest sense, and be independently proficient with the general handling and maintenance of recombinant DNA and associated bacterial strains. Plasmid DNA and genomic DNA will be isolated and used for practical experimentation such as recombinant engineering, functional cloning, and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Specific techniques will be repeated throughout the course to allow expertise with recombinant DNA technology and biotechnology. The lecture section of the course will be directed towards understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying molecular biotechnology and the techniques used in the molecular genetics field in their broadest sense.

Credit Status

1 credit towards the BTA diploma

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

  1. Perform the isolation of DNA and plasmids.
  2. Appraise ribonucleic acid isolation and use in molecular biological procedures.
  3. Characterize molecular biology associated enzymes and their uses.
  4. Recognize recombinant molecules and cloning vectors for specific applications.
  5. Distinguish methods for quantifying genes and gene expression.
  6. Use and optimize polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and associated techniques.
  7. Contrast Isothermal Nucleic Acid Amplification techniques and their application.
  8. Understand methods for sequencing nucleic acids, both traditional and next generation techniques.
  9. Apply the theoretical aspects of molecular enzyme evolution to biotechnology.
  10. Appreciate the molecular techniques associated with modern forensics and archaeology.
  11. Select molecular techniques for metagenomic analysis.
  12. Explain genome modification approaches, both early and modern (CRISPR/Cas).
  13. Infer approaches to molecular diagnostics for use in medicine. 
Lab Outline:
 
Labs are scheduled for a specific three-hour block however the student will be required to come in and perform lab duties outside these scheduled hours. This is necessary to perform proper Molecular Biology experiments and provide an opportunity to be independent with regards to experimental design and implementation. Generally, one lab project will need to be completed before the next is started, thus procedure repetition is often required.
 
The course director (Professor) must be aware of your attendance in the lab during these off hours and there must be supervision in the lab.
 
The labs to be attempted will include the following:
  1. Isolation of bacterial genomic and plasmid DNA.
  2. Restriction endonuclease enzyme mapping of DNA.
  3. Ligation of restriction endonuclease digested DNA and associated vector insert(s).
  4. Transformation of E.coli and the subsequent screening of transformants.
  5. PCR and amplicon isolation/manipulation.
  6. Ligation of a PCR fragment (amplicon) into an expression vector.
  7. Bacterial genomic library construction and transformation.
  8. In vitro expression and functional cloning in E.coli.

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.

    •  Execute mathematical operations accurately.

    •  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.