Biochemical Genetics and Molecular Biology

At the end of this course, students should be able to: 1. define gene cloning and the application of recombinant DNA technology in medicine; 2. describe genetic translocation and gene rearrangement in diseases state; 3. explain application of immunotherapy, molecular and cell biology, DNA replication and transcription, RNA and relationship to DNA; 4. define genetic code; 5. outline biosynthesis of protein and regulation of gene expression; 6. discuss tools of genetic engineering (molecular biology), hybridisation, molecular cloning, southern blotting and related techniques, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and its application to medicine; 7. describe molecular and biochemical basis of inheritance of common diseases, haemoglobinopathies; 8. outline gene therapy, biochemical aspects of cancer and cancer therapy; 9. explain personalised medicine; and 10. apply biochemical knowledge in the clinics.

Gene cloning and the application of recombinant DNA technology in medicine. Application of immunotherapy. Molecular and cell biology. DNA, replication and transcription. RNA and relationship to DNA. Genetic code. Biosynthesis of protein and regulation of gene expression. Tools of genetic engineering (molecular biology). Hybridisation, molecular cloning, southern blotting and related techniques, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and its application to medicine. Molecular and biochemical basis of inheritance of common diseases, haemoglobinopathies. Gene therapy. Biochemical aspects of cancer and cancer therapy. Personalised medicine.