Molecular Biology Fundamentals

Recommended Prerequisites

 General Biology and Biochemistry of Proteins, Nucleic Acids and Lipids.

Teaching Methods

Theoretical, face-to-face.

The lectures are supported in presentations with charts, graphs, etc.., With the support of media. The expository teaching, used to introduce new concepts is balanced with active learning, which encourages the participation of students, asking them questions relating to the matter under discussion.

Learning Outcomes

This course aims to provide a clear understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the flow of the genetic information: genomic organization, replication, transcription, translation and regulation of gene expression. By introducing the latest advances in post-genomic era, we intend to develop in students a clear view of the current challenges in the field of Molecular Biology.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

Structure and properties of the nucleic acids.

Molecular mechanism of replication, repair and recombination of DNA; mobile genetic elements.

Flow of genetic information: molecular mechanism of transcription, post-transcriptional modification; the genetic code; protein synthesis and post-translational modifications of proteins

Regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

Recombinant DNA technology.

Applications in biomedicine and biotechnology. 

Head Lecturer(s)

Paula Maria de Melim Vasconcelos de Vitorino Morais

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Exam: 100.0%

Bibliography

G.M. Cooper and R.E. Hausman (2007) The Cell. A Molecular Approach 4th ed., ASM Press, Washington, DC.

B. Alberts, A. Johnson, J. Lewis, M. Raff, K. Roberts, P. Walter (2007) Molecular Biology of the Cell, 5th ed.,, Garland Science, Taylor & Francis Group

T.A. Brown (2006) Genomes 3, 3rd ed., Garland Science, Taylor & Francis Group.

J.M. Berg, J.L. Tymoczko and L Stryer (2006) Biochemistry, 6th ed., W. H. Freeman and Company, New York.