Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

The aims of this module are to:
•       introduce the fundamental principles of human genetics and biochemistry in relation to nutrition
•       demonstrate the relationship between structure and function of DNA, RNA and proteins
•       introduce Mendelian genetics, population genetics and current concepts of molecular genetics applied to eukaryotes
•       provide an opportunity for students to interpret genetic information and work through problems in seminars, and relate their knowledge of genetics
•       introduce the molecular basis of cellular processes and the principles that underlie many biological events consider the implications in relation to health and disease
•       introduce some of the molecular and genetic techniques being used in the postgenomic era of genetics
•       demonstrate the relationship between structure and function of carbohydrates and lipids

Outline Of Syllabus

Lectures and seminars cover the following topics:

•       Nucleic acids and proteins structure and function
•       Relationship between DNA, RNA and proteins
•       Replication, transcription and translation
•       DNA Sequencing and the human genome
•       Epigenetic mechanisms
•       Control of gene expression
•       Amino acid structure and function
•       Carbohydrates structure and function
•       Lipid structure and function
•       Cell division: mitosis and meiosis
•       Molecular techniques: PCR, gel electrophoresis, genotyping

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

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

•       Identify structural features of DNA, RNA and protein and relate these to function
•       Correlate the processes and control of gene expression
•       Compare and contrast meiosis and mitosis and identify mechanisms used in the control of the cell cycle.
•       Discuss the ethical and social considerations associated with genetics
•       Identify the molecular techniques used in recombinant DNA technology and genome sequencing, and provide examples of their use to identify and predict human genetic disease.
•       Outline how glucose metabolism is controlled and what goes wrong in diabetes
•       Identify structural features of lipids and relate these to function

Intended Skill Outcomes

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

•       Independently locate information about Genetics via the library, Blackboard and online material, to support and reinforce material taught in lectures (information literacy)
•      
•       Work with peers in small groups to solve Genetics or Biochemistry related problems in seminars (problem solving & collaboration)
•      
•       Effectively communicate knowledge of Genetics and Biochemistry, obtained from lectures and private study, to peers and staff during seminars (oral and interpersonal communication skills)
•      
•       Determine the frequency of alleles in populations.

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

1. Lectures and lecture materials will define the scope of the course and communicate basic knowledge as a basis for further study.

2. Seminars will enable students to ask questions on lectures and will encourage students to develop their understanding of the subject and interpersonal communication skills. They provide an opportunity for students to ask questions and exchange ideas in a small group setting. Skills practiced include critical thinking, numeracy, communication & team working. Students will be encouraged to work with peers to address a set of questions to encourage teamwork before joining the whole group to discuss the answers.

3. Private study is used for self-directed learning and includes reading lecture notes and texts; preparation for seminars; using learning resources on the Web. Skills practiced include critical thinking, active learning, numeracy, planning and organisation and independence.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The end of semester examination assesses knowledge and understanding of the course material. The formative computer assessment will help students assess their knowledge and understanding of course material as well as familiarise students with the format of MCQs exam.

MDiet candidates must obtain an overall mark of 40 or above to pass the module, however, if the module has more than one assessment students must also achieve a mark of at least 35 in each component of the assessment to pass the module.

General Notes

N/A