Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2019 - BISC 357 D100

Genetic Engineering (4)

Class Number: 2708

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Mon, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2019: Wed, Fri, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 7, 2019
    Sat, 3:30–6:30 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 202, MBB 222, and MBB 231, all with a grade of C- or better. Recommended: MBB 331.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Techniques in gene cloning and the evaluation of gene function are introduced in lectures and practiced in labs. Lab exercises include genomic DNA, RNA, and plasmid purification; PCR; various cloning techniques; and construction of novel genes. Students are introduced to additional techniques in lectures including gene editing, and genome sequencing. Students with credit for MBB 308 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

There is a demand for people that are skilled in the techniques associated with genetic engineering. Biomedical companies and institutes regularly search for people with practical experience in genetic engineering. These skills are also valued for an academic career in disciplines ranging from medicine to ecology. First you will learn how to purify DNA and RNA and clone a complementary DNA fragment into a basic plasmid. After that, you will design and generate a DNA construct for CRISPR-based loss-of-function analysis of gene function, followed by Sequence and Ligase Independent Cloning for over-expression of genes as well as marker gene-based evaluation of where and when genes are expressed in an organism. The course will also research. Teaching and exams focus on the practical logic of experiments rather than extensive rote memorization. The course is housed on Canvas; we have a supplementary website with additional resourcescontain a brief introduction to key technologies behind the ongoing revolution in genomics.

Grading

  • Laboratory work (quizzes, other assessments, worksheets) and report on gene fusion construction 30%
  • In-class clicker questions 5%
  • Bioinformatics exercises 10%
  • Midterm Exam 20%
  • Final Exam 35%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

iClicker

REQUIRED READING:

Lecture Material

Provided on-line material and links

Provided protocols

RECOMMENDED READING:

Links in provided on-line material

Sections in recommended text: Genetic Engineering.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS