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Molecular biology

Course Description: This course aims to study the molecular basis of life by introducing the structure and function of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA), and the mechanisms of preserving and transmitting genetic information within the cell. The course covers the processes of DNA replication, transcription, and translation, as well as the regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Genetic mutations and DNA repair mechanisms are also addressed. Additionally, modern techniques used in molecular biology, such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), gene cloning, electrophoresis, and nucleic acid sequencing, and their applications in veterinary medicine, biotechnology, and scientific research are reviewed. The course aims to develop students' understanding of the relationship between genes and their functions, and the applications of molecular biology in solving contemporary scientific and medical problems.

Credits: 2

Prerequisites: BCH 301

Objectives of the course :

By the end of this course, the student is expected to be able to:

1. Identification of the structure and function of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and proteins.
2. Explain the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription, and translation.
3. Clarification of gene expression regulation mechanisms in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
4. Explanation of the causes, effects, and repair mechanisms of genetic mutations.
5. Applying fundamental molecular biology concepts to solve biological and medical problems.
6. Understanding the principles of genetic engineering and recombinant DNA technology.
7. Explain the principles and techniques of modern molecular biology, such as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), electrophoresis, gene cloning, and DNA sequencing.
8. Analysis and interpretation of results and data obtained from molecular experiments.
9. Evaluation of molecular biology applications in the fields of veterinary medicine, biotechnology, agriculture, and scientific research.
10. Developing scientific thinking skills, laboratory work, and commitment to the ethics of scientific research in the field of molecular biology.

Course outputs :

I: Knowledge and understanding:

1. Explains the molecular structure and functions of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and proteins.
Explains the mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription, translation, and gene expression regulation.
Describes the types of genetic mutations, DNA repair mechanisms, and their importance in maintaining the stability of genetic material.
Explains the principles and techniques of molecular biology and their applications in veterinary medicine, biotechnology, and scientific research.

II: Skills:

Interprets data and results from various molecular experiments and techniques.
Applies basic molecular biology techniques such as PCR, electrophoresis, and nucleic acid analysis.
Analyzes biological problems using appropriate molecular concepts and tools.
8. Employs recent scientific sources to search for and evaluate information related to molecular biology.

Third: Values, Independence, and Responsibility:

9. Adheres to biosafety procedures and professional ethics in biological laboratories.
Works effectively within a team to accomplish laboratory activities and experiments.
11. Accepts responsibility for self-learning and keeping up with recent developments in the field of molecular biology.
Demonstrates critical thinking skills and scientific decision-making based on evidence and empirical data.

Additional information:

* Credit hours: 2 credit hours.
Previous Requirement: Biochemistry.
Course level: Bachelor's degree.
Language of Instruction: English.
* Nature of the course: Theoretical with practical.

Main course topics:

1. Introduction to Molecular Biology.
2. Structure and Function of DNA and RNA.
3. Genome organization and chromosome structure.
4. DNA Replication.
5. Transcription.
6. Translation and Protein Synthesis (Translation).
7. Regulation of Gene Expression.
Mutations and DNA Repair.
9. Recombinant DNA and Genetic Engineering Technologies.
10. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
11. Electrophoresis of Nucleic Acids and Proteins.
12. DNA Sequencing and Modern Technologies.
13. Applications of Molecular Biology in Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology.

Teaching Strategies:

Interactive lectures.
Scientific discussions.
Presentations.
Problem-based learning.
Lab activities and experiments.

Evaluation Methods

Quizzes.
Midterm exams.
Reports and duties.
Presentations.
Practical assessment.
Final test.

Suggested primary references:

Watson, J. D., et al. Molecular Biology of the Gene.
Weaver, R. F. Molecular Biology.
* Lodish, H., et al. Molecular Cell Biology.
Alberts, B., et al. Molecular Biology of the Cell.

Suggested calling hours:

Theory: 1 hour per week.
* Work: 1 hour per week.

Notes

The course focuses on equipping students with the fundamental knowledge and skills necessary to understand the molecular mechanisms that control cell functions, preparing them for advanced courses in genetics, biotechnology, and biomedical sciences, as well as modern scientific research applications.

Last updated: June 25, 2026