University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 9

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Lectures: 10.00am Mon, Tue and Wed; Practicals: to be arranged.

This module builds on material covered in BL2302 Molecular Biology. It first considers the structure of genes and the composition of genomes and then examines genetic activity in eukaryotes in relation to nuclear organisation, chromatin structure and epigenetic mechanisms. Regulation of expression at the levels of gene transcription, RNA processing, RNA stability and translation are next covered in detail, drawing particular attention to the nature of protein-nucleic acid interactions. Specific control mechanisms in different prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, induced by environmental, cell cycle, and metabolic signals are highlighted.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass BL2302 and ( pass BL2306 or pass BL2309 )

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Across the semester: 19 x 1h lectures, 6 x 1h tutorials, 2 x 8h practicals split over several days

Scheduled learning hours: 78

Guided independent study hours: 122

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: 3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr S A MacNeill
Module teaching staff: Team taught