Course content

The course will aim at providing a broad introduction to modern biotechnology with emphasis both on basic understanding of cell function at a molecular level, and on applications. In recent years the scientific developments have to a great extent progressed on the basis of methodolgical breakthroughs, and the most important of these methods will be discussed. The following keywords can be used as an indication of the kinds of issues that will be addressed: the structural composition of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; what is life and what makes evolution possible; types of compunds; metabolism and convertion of energy; enzyme catalysis; the prosesses from DNA via RNA to protein; mutations and mutants; recombinant DNA technology, exchange of DNA between cells; 'omics technologies; applications in industry, environmental biotechnology, medicine and agriculture; ethical issues.

Learning outcome

Knowledge:
- Understand what groups of compounds (nucleic acids, proteins, metabiolites etc.) are found in living cells and what their functions are.
- Understand the basic principles of regulation at different levels.
- Understand how the knowledge about cell functions can be used for various applied purposes in the society.
- Understand the ethical consequences of the developments in biotechnology.

Skills:
- Be able to define the key terms in molecular biology.
- Be able to integrate relevant parts of the knowledge base to solve simple problems of scientific and applied character.
- Be able to defend important ethical opinions.

General competence:
- Be able to see the connection between the content of this course and other parts of science (enzymatic versus non-enzymatic catalysis, the laws of thermodynamics in relation to living systems etc.).

Learning methods and activities

The course will be based on lectures, demonstrations and group-based exercises. One mandatory group exercise (poster).

Compulsory assignments

• Exercices (oral/written presentation)

Recommended previous knowledge

Courses in general, inorganic and organic chemistry at the university level.

Course materials

Information will be given in the first lecture.

Credit reductions