Molecular and Cellular Biology

Code:

BIOL1017

Acronym:

BIOL1017

Keywords
Classification	Keyword
OFICIAL	Biology

Instance: 2021/2022 - 1S

Active?	Yes
Responsible unit:	Department of Biology
Course/CS Responsible:	Bachelor in Agricultural Engineering

Cycles of Study/Courses

Acronym	No. of Students	Study Plan	Curricular Years	Credits UCN	Credits ECTS	Contact hours	Total Time
L:EA	9	The study plan from 2019	1	-	6	48	162

Teaching language

Suitable for English-speaking students

Objectives

The Cell is the fundamental unit of life, and the knowledge of its physiology forms the foundation upon which all Biology as well as its applications. The objective of this UC is to make the student discover the Biology of the Cell at a global level, including the main structures and functional processes, and their respective molecular basis, as well as the experimental methodologies used to build that knowledge. 

Learning outcomes and competences

The students should acquire the ability to understand, use, communicate and apply the basic concepts concerning the structure and functioning of cells, including their chemical composition, the role of membranes, the cell division, and the flow of information and energy. They should also acquire theoretical  and practical skills in methods of study the cell, such as microscopy and the technology of recombinant DNA.

 

Working method

Presencial

Pre-requirements (prior knowledge) and co-requirements (common knowledge)

A prior knowledge is not necessary because this UC is basic in molecular and cellular biology. It may be a relevant this  UC in terms of biological knowledge for those who, not being a Biology student, intend to take a master's degree in transversal areas with Biology, such as Plant Biotechnology, Bioinformatics….

Program

PRACTICAL LESSONS PROGRAM . Observation and measurement of different cell types under an optical microscope. Spectrophotometry and chlorophyll dosing. DNA extraction, PCR amplification, and analysis of the amplification products by agarose gel electrophoresis. Observation of mitosis in root apices of onion.

Mandatory literature

Bruce Alberts; Essential cell biology. ISBN: 978-0-8153-2971-8

Complementary Bibliography

James Darnell; Molecular cell biology. ISBN: 0-7167-1981-9
Gerald Karp; Cell and molecular biology. ISBN: 978-0-470-04217-5

Teaching methods and learning activities

Theoretical lectures using powerpoint presentations and interaction with students using distance learning technologies, such as video-conferences and /or through the moodle platform. Practical laboratory classes carry out laboratory work. Stdents  observe definitive and extemporaneous preparations under the microscope. Students  handle some materials and  get in tools used in biotechnology.

keywords

Natural sciences > Biological sciences > Biology > Molecular biology
Natural sciences > Biological sciences > Biology > Cell biology

Evaluation Type

Distributed evaluation with final exam

Assessment Components

designation	Weight (%)
Exame	100,00
Total:	100,00

Amount of time allocated to each course unit

designation	Time (hours)
Estudo autónomo	114,00
Frequência das aulas	48,00
Total:	162,00

Eligibility for exams

Lectures are optional. Practical classes are obligatory with a limit of maximum 3 absences.

Calculation formula of final grade

The assessment will include the following components

1) Frequencies  and/or final examination 

 

 

Observations

Once again I emphasize that this discipline of Molecular and Cellular Biology should be part of the scientific culture of students who take the different courses at FCUP and intend to enter a master's degree that have to have some minimum of DNA; a DNA gene to protein, and flux of energy in living world.




Coordenadora da disciplina 
Maria isabel Amorim