BIO-261: Nucleic Acids

Upon successful completion of this course, student should be able to:

1. Compare DNA and RNA and their components in terms of structure and function.
2. Explain the following processes: DNA replication, transcription, translation, reverse transcription.
3. Explain how gene expression is controlled.
4. Describe gene cloning and recombinant DNA and explain the appropriate biotechnological applications of each.
5. Explain standard techniques and protocols used to: isolate, purify, and quantitate nucleic acids, determine a nucleic acid's sequence, amplify DNA, clone genes, perform DNA fingerprinting, and evaluate the genetic information encoded in by a nucleic acid sequence.<
6. Determine the appropriate application of standard nucleic acid-related techniques, and explain how to achieve particular outcomes using appropriate nucleic acid-related techniques.
7. Demonstrate how to use standard genomics databases to gain information and solve problems.
8. Communicate in a professional manner.
9. Recognize and use a technical vocabulary.
10. Integrate information from diverse sources, including peer-reviewed scientific journals.
11. Demonstrate proficiency with the use of the following equipment: centrifuge, fume hood, balance, volumetric glassware and pipettes, spectrophotometer, electrophoresis apparatus, thermal cycler, imaging system.
12. Demonstrate proficiency with the following techniques: DNA and RNA isolation from a variety of sources, nucleic acid quantitation, restriction endonuclease digestion, insertion of genes into plasmid vectors, genetic transformation, PCR, centrifugation, spectroscopy, and electrophoresis.
13. Apply the scientific method; design and perform experiments according to accepted methods.
14. Prepare, dispense, and appropriately label reagents; maintain reagent integrity.
15. Demonstrate proficiency in maintaining a laboratory environment conducive to effective performance of nucleic acids-based techniques; understand and apply principles of sterilization.
16. Perform basic laboratory calculations.
17. Demonstrate laboratory safety skills, including identifying safety hazards, employing preventive safety measures, complying with safety and emergency procedures, and demonstrating appropriate care and use of equipment and facilities to ensure safety; demonstrate appropriate handling and disposal of chemical and biological materials in keeping with SDS and worker protection standards (WPS).
18. Demonstrate scientific accountability and ethical behavior.
19. Recognize and apply appropriate documentation requirements.
20. Demonstrate effective teamwork skills and coordinate tasks with lab partners.
21. Display professional behavior, courtesy, and attitude.
22. Troubleshoot laboratory problems and apply decision-making and problem-solving techniques in the laboratory.
23. Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and good laboratory practices (GLPs).
24. Demonstrate the use of critical thinking skills in the analysis and interpretation of experimental data.