Core Module Information
Module title: Molecular Biology of the cell

SCQF level: 09:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: BMS09112
Module leader: Matthew Boyles
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Life Sciences
Prerequisites

Requisites: AND Pre-requisite: Appropriate background knowledge at level 8 of biochemistry, genetics, physiology of disease, cell biology and comparative physiology AND AND Pre-requisite: [Module BMS08103] Genes and Inheritance AND Pre-requisite: [Module BMS08101] Biochemistry

Description of module content:

This module will build upon concepts and knowledge gained in your 1st and 2nd year modules to discuss the internal organisation of the cell and how it responds to intracellular and extracellular cues. There will be 4 main overarching topics covered in this module: membrane function and receptors, cell signalling cascades, protein biochemistry, cellular structures and compartments.In particular you will study membrane function; receptor based communication and their signalling networks; the importance of protein interactions and post-translational modifications in cell signalling pathways; their impact on protein function, targeting and turnover. These will be discussed in the context of the relevant cellular compartments and structures. The course will discuss these concepts and mechanisms through major cellular processes such as cell division and cell death.You will be taught through lectures, tutorials and workshops. You will also undertake practical activities in the laboratory and will be assessed on your ability to plan and execute these experiments and interpret and present the data you obtain. Within the workshops and tutorials, group work and face-to-face activities will be undertaken, to help you understand these cellular processes. A substantial amount of time has been set aside for self-directed study to reflect the fast moving pace of this field and the need to consult the literature, to prepare for tutorials, workshops and practical classes. Group work and team study is encouraged.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of cellular signalling mechanisms using specific examples.

LO2: Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of cellular compartments and post-translational regulation and their importance in regulating protein structure, function, turnover and trafficking.

LO3: Apply knowledge of cell signalling and protein biochemistry to multi-layered cellular processes such as cell division and death.

LO4: Draw on a range of sources to formulate a plan to solve a practical research question.

LO5: Develop analytical and experimental laboratory skills in molecular cellular biology.

LO6: Analyse, interpret and evaluate experimentally derived data and demonstrate scientific writing skills through laboratory reports.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Matthew Boyles
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Tutorial 8 A class tutorial will follow lectures to help you with the learning materials from the subject, as well as for the assessments. This is intended to support you to learn from each other.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 12.5 2 lab days in a single week, carrying out an MTT assay. This includes cell culture.
Online Guided independent study 171.5 Throughout the trimester, you are expected to structure in time to reflect upon the learning you have undertaken in your scheduled sessions and to complete your essential reading. You are encouraged to read more widely around the topics you are studying and engage in Moodle activities and resources. You will need to ensure that you have sufficient time to prepare and plan for your assessment tasks.
Face To Face Lecture 8 Subject area lecture, 1 hour on campus. Recordings will be available.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Laboratory report 40 4~5~6 Week 9 , WORDS= 1500 ±10% words Laboratory report: based on your own data from a 2-day lab experiment.
Project - Written 60 1~2~3 Exam Period , WORDS= 1500 ±10% words For this assessment you are asked to select a research article from the list provided below, towrite a summary of the article, and then design an Infographic to capture the main points ofthe research in the article. Due in week 15.
Component 1 subtotal: 40
Component 2 subtotal: 60
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
BMS09112 Molecular Biology of the Cell