- Biology - Systems Biology - Biochemistry

This course is designed to provide students with a general knowledge of Molecular Genetics. The main objective is focused on acquiring knowledge about the composition of nucleic acids, the structure of genetic material and genes, the process of DNA replication, RNA transcription and protein translation, as well as the mechanisms of regulation of all these processes. Students will also learn the most advanced techniques of molecular biology and their application in the fields of life and health sciences. COMPETENCIES AND LEARNING OUTCOMES At the end of this subject the student should be able to: - Obtain the necessary knowledge to understand the relationship between genetic mechanisms at the molecular level and biological functions. - Obtain the necessary knowledge to understand the relationship between genetic mechanisms at the molecular level and biological functions, being able to apply this knowledge to relevant questions in different fields of Biosciences. - Interpret DNA as a material for gene transmission and the processes of replication and general dynamics of nucleic acids. - Recognize the stages of the gene expression process and the molecules involved. - To understand the function of genetic information, its regulation and transmission as a key element of the organization and functioning of living organisms in general and human beings in particular. - To identify applications of Molecular Genetics to the main current problems and future challenges of Biosciences.

Topic 1. Introduction. Nucleic Acids, Genes and Genomes. Topic 2.Eukaryotic Genome Structure. Topic 3. Replication of the genetic material. Topic 4. DNA Transcription (Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes). Topic 5. mRNA translation and non-coding RNAs. Topic 6. Recombination, Transposition and Insertion. Topic 7. Gene Regulation. Topic 8. Restriction and Repair. Topic 9. Mutation and Mutagenesis. Topic 10. Sequencing and Amplification. Topic 11. Gene Transfer. Topic 12. Introduction to Gene Therapy and Gene Engineering.

TRAINING ACTIVITIES Lectures: these are systematic and orderly expository sessions of the syllabus of the subject that may also include detailed review of selected problems that exemplify the implementation of the theoretical contents. The objective is for students to acquire the specific competences of each subject. 50 hours, 100% attendance. Practical classes in the classroom: in these sessions, students work on the applications of the contents of the subjects, including numerical examples, case analysis, data search, directed work, gamification sessions, etc. The objective is to show students how to act. 6 hours, 100% attendance. Evaluation tests. 4 hours, 100% attendance. Study and individual autonomous work to develop self-learning skills. It includes the same activities of the group work, but carried out individually. It also includes personal study (preparing exams, complementary readings, doing problems and exercises), which is fundamental for autonomous learning. 180 hours. TEACHING METHODOLOGIES Expository method: oral presentations by the teacher supported, if necessary, with computer material (PowerPoint, videos, etc.). They provide the transmission of knowledge and activation of cognitive processes in the student. Problem-based learning: development of active learning through problem solving, which confronts students with new situations in which they have to search for information and apply new knowledge to solve problems. Cooperative learning: fosters the development of autonomous learning through collaboration among peers.