BMS08101 Biochemistry

Revision of structure and function of DNA and RNA, and of the genetic code. Induction and genotypic classification of mutations, and their consequences (phenotypic effects). DNA repair (direct, excision, mismatch, recombination and error-prone). Genetic recombination, bacterial conjugation, and role of the F plasmid in gene transfer. Mapping of chromosomal markers by interrupted mating. Transformation. Transduction. Restriction enzymes and restriction mapping. Cloning DNA sequences using plasmid and bacteriophage vectors. cDNA cloning. Identification of specific clones of interest. Analysis/manipulation of DNA sequences by: polymerase chain reaction (PCR), DNA sequencing, site-directed mutagenesis, and Southern blotting. Regulation of gene expression in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms.

LO1: Compare and contrast the various mechanisms of genetic mutation, DNA repair, and DNA transfer.
LO2: Determine the genetic and molecular basis of restriction/modification systems and derive restriction maps by interpreting both theoretical and laboratory data.
LO3: Explain the laboratory principles involved in gene cloning, including identification, selection and amplification of specific DNA sequences and the generation of DNA libraries.
LO4: Evaluate the techniques of gene expression analysis and gene function.
LO5: Carry out laboratory experiments involving the transfer, manipulation and analysis of DNA.