PHYS40090 Analysis of Gene Expression - PCR

Academic Year 2023/2024

This module is designed to provide an introduction to PCR-based methods for analysing gene expression with an emphasis on assay design and development. The primary aim of this module is to give students hands-on laboratory experience in PCR and QPCR, and an understanding of the various controls that are necessary to ensure reliable data.

Show/hide contentOpenClose All

Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:

1. Describe the basic principles of gene transcription and PCR-based analysis of gene expression. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

a. Regulation of gene expression
i. Gene promoters and enhancers
ii. Transcription start sites
iii. Transcription factors and polymerase recruitment
iv. RNA splicing

b. Methods for assessing gene expression
i. End point PCR
ii. Sybr green based QPCR
iii. Taqman based QPCR

c. RNA isolation
i. Cultured cells vs Tissues
ii. RNA stability
iii. RNA quantification

d. cDNA synthesis
i. Selection of reverse transcriptase and primers

e. Design of gene-specific primers

f. Normalisation of QPCR data
i. Selecting suitable “House keeping” genes

2. Demonstrate laboratory competence in performing tasks relating to Learning Outcome 1.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Tutorial

12
Laboratories

60
Autonomous Student Learning

40
Total

112
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
This module involves approximately ten weeks of laboratory-based practical activity.
Students will work closely with a research active supervisor.
Teaching will involve laboratory work; active/task-based learning; critical writing; reflective learning; enquiry & problem-based learning. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Continuous Assessment: Laboratory Report Varies over the Trimester n/a Graded Yes

100

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Remediation Type Remediation Timing
Repeat Within Two Trimesters
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback will be provided on graded laboratory reports.

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
 

There are no rows to display