6 ECTS credits
155 h study time
Offer 1 with catalog number 1015510ANR for all students in the 1st semester at a (A) Bachelor - preliminary level.
This course is an introduction to genetics, classical and modern, molecular genetics, and epigenetics. The aim is to provide the students insight into the principles of genetic methodology and mechanisms that ensure replication of the genetic material and its recombination. How the genetic material is modified by mutation and possibly repaired. Besides the classical route of vertical inheritance (from one generation to the next) different forms of horizontal inheritance are discussed (transformation, conjugation, transduction) and different examples of epigenetics are analyzed in microorganisms (bacteria, fungi) and higher eukaryotes. Furthermore the mechanisms of expression of genetic information, transcription and translation, are analyzed and the evolution of the carrier of genetic information is discussed (RNA-world, self-replicating RNA). The different processes are generally explained starting from historical observations. These lead to predictions and the proposal of models. On basis of a model, experiments can be proposed to test the model. This general way of thinking is followed consistently throughout this course. This illustrates the development of new ideas and concepts and allows to couple history to modern molecular models and theories. This approach should stimulate the analytical thinking and reasoning potential of the students. Bio-ethical aspects are dealt with in 2 to 3 interactive seminars of 2 hours each, given by guest speakers. Examples are generally taken from actuality and students are encouraged to express their ideas and opinions.
During the practicals students (groups of two) perform several experiments that illustrate different topics of the course and should allow to better understand the theory: (i) preparation and titration of a bacteriophage lysate, (ii) conjugation, (iii) in vivo recombination (single versus double cross-over), (iv) gene expression and gene regulation (with a promoter-reporter gene fusion construct introduced in different genetic backgrounds and in cells grown in different media). Every group writes a report. This includes the presentation of a regulatory model of gene regulation based on the experimental results from all assays from the different groups (cis- and trans-acting mutations, presence/absence of effector molecules).
Participation to the practicals and the seminars on bioethics is compulsory. Non justified absence may lead to exclusion of the examination.
A course entitled" Algemene en Moleculaire Genetica" consisting of text and a copy all figures used in the powerpoint presentations of the course can be downloaded from Canvas. A manual for the practical training containing background information, figures and detailed protocols is equally availablle on Canvas.
The student must know and be able to describe the composition, structure and topology of the genetic material. The student should have insight into the principles of the genetic methodologies and must be able to explain in molecular terms the functioning of the mechanisms for DNA replication, DNA recombination, DNA damage and repair, gene expression, DNA transposition, DNA transfer from one cell to another. The student must be able to make links between different phenomena and mechanisms, and to apply the acquired knowledge to solve a problem, to test a hypothesis. The student should also be able to give examples of epigenetic manners of inheritance and to explain the mechanisms. Students should be aware of the thical implications of the development of modern technologies and be be able toexpress their opinion. Students should also be able to work in a small team in an orderly and efficient manner to perform laboratory experiments (technical skills), to interpret experimental results and to write a report.
The final grade is composed based on the following categories:
Oral Exam determines 80% of the final mark.
Practical Exam determines 20% of the final mark.
Within the Oral Exam category, the following assignments need to be completed:
Within the Practical Exam category, the following assignments need to be completed:
Oral examination (30 min/student, no written preparation) of the full content of the course. Questions can be of two kinds: testing knowledge and testing the application of knowledge (use of knowledge to propose a research strategy, to test a hypothesis).
The written report of the practicals (see manual for the practical for instructions and requiremlents) is finalized on the last day of the practicals and given to the supervisor. The quotation takes into account: the correct execution of experiments (results), attitude and effort during the practicals, the interpretation of results, the general composition, style and the scientific language used.
This offer is part of the following study plans:
Bachelor of Chemistry: Default track (only offered in Dutch)
Bachelor of Bioengineering Sciences: Profile Cell and Gene Biotechnology (only offered in Dutch)
Bachelor of Bioengineering Sciences: Profile Chemistry and Bioprocess Technology (only offered in Dutch)
Bachelor of Bioengineering Sciences: Initial track (only offered in Dutch)