Molecular Engineering and Construction of Producer Clones

The main objective of this course unit is to enable students to acquire theoretical and practical knowledge in molecular engineering. Specifically, students will learn how to integrate a gene encoding a molecule of interest and express that molecule 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 molecular mechanisms and tools underlying a modified organism (prokaryote and/or eukaryote). The course will cover knowledge of the enzymes involved in genetic modification and the verification and validation of this modification through vectorization. Extraction, purification, and expression methods will be covered in laboratory sessions. In addition, a comprehensive overview of the significance of molecular engineering in the field of health will be presented.

Competencies targeted by the EU: 

- Understand the molecular mechanisms of genetic enzymes// involved in genetic modification  

- Be familiar with the most common PCR techniques and methods 

- Understand the different methods of gene vectorization 

- Master 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. 

Second-year degree in Life Sciences, second-year degree in Health Engineering, Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Engineering, Advanced Technical Certificate (BTS) in Biotechnology, Advanced Technical Certificate (BTSA) in Biological, Biotechnological, Agricultural, and Environmental Analysis (ANABIOTEC), and equivalent programs. 

Ongoing written assessments on theoretical content, culminating in a final exam to evaluate overall knowledge. Evaluation of practical assignments based on the performance of experiments and the reporting of results.