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Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Course Description: This course provides a comprehensive overview of pharmaceutical biotechnology, exploring the applications of living systems and organisms to develop therapeutic products. It covers the historical evolutionary role and fundamental principles, including microbial enzymes and hormones, microbial growth stages and their metabolic products, fermentation and immobilization techniques, as well as molecular biotechnology methods such as gene transfer, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and DNA cloning. The course also delves into advanced topics like antisense technology, aptamers, gene therapy, and products from genetically modified microbes, along with selected applications in bioinformatics. Furthermore, students will examine the development of conventional and genomic vaccines, and the role of monoclonal antibodies in modern therapies, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in biotechnology and related fields.

Credits: 2

Prerequisites: PHT 221

Objectives of the course :

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Analysis of the fundamental principles of molecular biology and genetic engineering that underpin the development of biopharmaceutical products.
Distinguishing between production platforms and technological processes used in manufacturing different categories of biological products, including recombinant proteins, monoclonal antibodies, and vaccines.
3. Assess the unique challenges related to the formulation, delivery, and stability of peptide, protein, and nucleic acid-based therapies.
4. Explain the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of biological pharmaceuticals and how they differ from traditional small-molecule drugs.

5. Evaluating the clinical applications and therapeutic potential of advanced biotechnologies, including gene therapy and monoclonal antibodies.

Course outputs :

knowledge:
Explanation of the scientific principles of key biotechnologies (e.g., fermentation, polymerase chain reaction, DNA cloning) and their role in drug development.
Distinguish between the main categories of biopharmaceuticals (e.g., recombinant proteins, monoclonal antibodies, vaccines, gene therapies) based on their production and mechanism of action.
Skills:
Analysis of a biological drug development pathway, from gene identification and expression to final product formulation.
Evaluating the optimal application for different production systems (e.g., microbial vs. mammalian) for a specific biopharmaceutical, justifying the choice based on the nature of the product.
Propose a formulation strategy to address challenges in the stability and delivery of a specific peptide or protein therapeutic.
Values:
Advocate for the ethical and responsible use of biotechnology in drug development and therapy, considering the implications for societal and patient safety.
Collaborate effectively within a team to research and present a presentation on the latest achievements or challenges in the field of pharmaceutical biotechnology.

Additional information:

Last updated: 2026-05-14