Molecular engineering and construction of producer clones

The main objective of this course unit is to enable students/learners to acquire theoretical and practical knowledge in molecular engineering. That is, to be able to integrate a gene coding for a molecule of interest and express it in a suitable organism. This corresponds to the preparation stage of bioproduction.   

In order to produce a molecule of interest, it is necessary to first understand the mechanisms and molecular tools behind a modified organism (prokaryotic and/or eukaryotic). Knowledge of the enzymes involved in genetic modification and the verification/validation of this modification through vectorization will be covered. Extraction, purification, and expression methods will be covered in practical work. In addition, a comprehensive overview of the importance of molecular engineering in the field of health will be presented.

Skills targeted by the EU: 

- Understanding the molecular mechanisms of genetic enzymes involved in genetic modification  

- Know the most common PCR techniques and methods 

- Understand the different modes of gene vectorization 

- Mastering the techniques and tools of molecular cloning and verification 

- Independently carry out a scientific protocol 

- Validate, interpret, and present results  

- Understand the limitations (advantages and disadvantages) of molecular biology tools. 

L2 Life Sciences, L2 Health Engineering, BUT Biological Engineering, BTS Biotechnology, BTSA Biological, Biotechnological, Agricultural, and Environmental Analysis (ANABIOTEC), and equivalent programs. 

Continuous written assessment of theoretical content, with a final exam to validate overall knowledge. Assessment of practical work on handling and reporting results.