Module Catalogue 2024/25

BGM2056 : DNA Replication, recombination and Repair

BGM2056 : DNA Replication, recombination and Repair

  • Offered for Year: 2024/25
  • Module Leader(s): Dr Laura Maringele
  • Lecturer: Professor Heath Murray
  • Owning School: Biomedical, Nutritional and Sports Scien
  • Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters

Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.

Semester 2 Credit Value: 10
ECTS Credits: 5.0
European Credit Transfer System
Pre-requisite

Modules you must have done previously to study this module

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co-Requisite

Modules you need to take at the same time

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

1. To provide a sound understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the replication, repair and recombination of DNA and to demonstrate the unique importance of the accuracy of these processes.

2. To provide a framework for understanding the different types of DNA damage, the mechanisms by which they are repaired and the diseases that result from defects in these repair processes.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module provides an understanding of the following key DNA-dependent processes:

- accurate replication of the genome

- recombination, mechanisms of genetic variation

- repair of DNA damage

- results of failure to correct DNA damage (e.g. mutation, genetic instability, cancer).
development of genetic diseases (e.g. developmental disorders, cancer predisposition and premature ageing)

Learning Outcomes

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

At the end of the module students will be able to:

1. Explain the importance of the accuracy during DNA replication and the need to correct errors.
2. Describe the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication initiation and elongation.
3. Describe the various types of damage that occur to DNA.
4. Compare and contrast the molecular mechanisms by which damaged DNA may be repaired.
5. Describe the associations between defects in human DNA repair processes and human diseases.
6. Explain how DNA damage sensitivity assays can be used to characterize DNA repair pathways.

Intended Skill Outcomes

At the end of the module students will be able to:

Subject specific, Congitive/Intellectual

S1 Plot and interpret data relating to UV survival curves

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities
Category Activity Number Length Student Hours Comment
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture11:001:00In person - Feedback and opportunity for queries
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture121:0012:00In person - Theory/themes/methodologies/techniques re DNA replication recombination & repair
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesPractical15:005:00In person - Laboratory practical sessions. UV survival curves
Guided Independent StudyIndependent study182:0082:00Writing up lecture notes, revision and general reading
Total100:00
Teaching Rationale And Relationship

The lectures will be used to deliver theory, themes, methodologies and techniques relating to DNA replication, recombination and repair, and to reinforce the lecture material and allow feedback on the practical/data handling exercise.

These sessions will be reinforced by the material covered in the practical/data analysis sessions.

Reading Lists

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Exams
Description Length Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Written Examination532A56In person invigilated handwritten essay (53mins) (56%). One question from a choice of two & Inspera digital exam (22 mins) (24%) MCQ format max 30 questions. Part 1 Inspera, Part 2 written, exams to be scheduled together. Inspera to be open for the duration of the examination (75 mins)
Digital Examination222A24Digital In person invigilated Inspera digital exam (22mins) (24%) MCQ format max 30 questions & invigilated written essay (53mins) (56%). One question from a choice of two. Part 1 Inspera, Part 2 written, exams to be scheduled together. Inspera to be open for the duration of the exam- (75 mins)
Other Assessment
Description Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Practical/lab report2M20Experience gained in accurate recording & with determination of UV survival curves. All pre-set questions must be answered.
Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The written exam will test the student’s knowledge and understanding of taught material and additional reading.

The practical report will test understanding of the material delivered, as well as providing training in key laboratory and numeracy skills.

Timetable

Past Exam Papers

General Notes

Original Handbook text:

Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue

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You may have some queries about the modules available to you. Your school office will be able to signpost you to someone who will support you with any queries.

Disclaimer

The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2024 academic year.

In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.

Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2025/26 entry will be published here in early-April 2025. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.