Description:

This course is an introduction to biotechnology, including career exploration, history and applications of DNA/RNA technology, molecular biology, and bioethics. Topics include cloning, DNA, antibodies, gene therapy, plant biotechnology, the human genome project, DNA fingerprinting, genetic testing, diverse products made through biotechnology, and the ethical implications of this technology. The course is intended for those interested in pursuing a career in an industrial, academic, or biomedical research laboratory. 2 hrs. lecture/wk.

Supplies: Refer to the instructor's course syllabus for details about any supplies that may be required.

Textbook(s): For information see - http://bookstore.jccc.net

Course Fees: NONE

Course Objectives:

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

1. Recognize the foundations of modern biotechnology.
2. Explain the biochemical principles that form the basis for biotechnology.
3. Describe the common methods and applications of biotechnology with regards to microorganisms, plants and animals.
4. Describe the common methods and applications of biotechnology with regards to medicine, forensics and the human genome project.
5. Locate and interpret the regulations that govern the products of biotechnology.
6. Acknowledge both sides of the ethical implications of biotechnology.
7. Research a biotechnology company, and complete job application procedure.
8. Present a biotechnology topic using PowerPoint

Content Outline & Competencies:

I. Beginnings of Modern Biotechnology
   A. Outline the early history of biotechnology prior to the development
of the germ theory.
   B. Describe the scientific developments that occurred after the germ
theory and provided the foundations of modern biotechnology.
 
II. Basic Methodologies of Gene Expression
   A. Describe DNA structure and the replication process.
   B. Explain the process of RNA transcription.
   C. Explain translation and the components necessary for the process to
occur as well as describe the four levels of protein structure.
   D. Cite examples of the regulations of gene expression including the
lac and trp operons.
 
III. Basic Principles of Recombinant DNA Technology
   A. Describe the function and use of bacterial restriction
endonucleases.
   B. Describe the natural occurrence of cloning and the human
applications of the process.
   C. Explain the methods of cell transformation.
   D. Explain the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
   E. Review the different DNA sequencing methods, especially the Sanger
method.
   F. Summarize the various methods used to study proteins including
chromatography and gel electrophoresis.
 
IV. Common Methods and Applications of Microbial Biotechnology
   A. Review the commercial production of methods using microogranisms.
   B. Identify a variety of products from microorganisms.
   C. Describe examples of bioremediation and their impact on the
environment.
 
V. Common Methods and Applications of Plant Biotechnology
   A. Describe the techniques used in plant tissue culture.
   B. Identify a variety of uses of plant genetic engineering.
   C. Review the safety issues that must be addressed with food plants.
 
VI. Common Methods and Applications of Animal Biotechnology
   A. Describe gene transfer methods in animals.
   B. Define the role of transgenic animals.
   C. Discuss various methods of animal propagation.
 
VII. Common Methods and Applications of the Human Genome Project
   A. Describe the goals of the Human Genome Project (HGP).
   B. Define genetic markers and maps as they relate to the HGP.
   C. List applications of HGP including genetic testing, screening and
therapy.
 
VIII. Common Methods and Applications of Medical Biotechnology
   A. Review the process and use of gene therapy.
   B. Compare and contrast the types of vaccines in use including their
method of manufacture.
   C. Summarize the types of synthetic drugs and their development.
 
IX. Forensic Science and DNA Profiling
   A. Discuss the legal and technical requirements of forensic science
pertaining to:
      1. Evidence gathering and conservation.
      2. Interpretation of evidence.
      3. Reliability of technology employed.
   B. Describe the methods used in DNA profiling.
   C. Outline DNA databases and their use in profiling.
 
X. Regulations and Patent Processes That Govern Biotechnology
   A. Identify the regulatory agencies that govern biotechnology.
   B. Recognize the risks of biotechnology products to the public and
interpret how regulations work to decrease the risk.
   C. Outline the process used in patent plants and animals.
 
XI. Ethical Issues Associated with Biotechnology
   A. Evaluate the public concerns with engineered plants and foods.
   B. Summarize the ethical, legal and social implications of the Human
Genome Project.
   C. Acknowledge both sides of the argument regarding the ethical use of
biotechnology.
 
XII. Career Exploration
   A. Research and write a paper on a biotechnology firm.
   B. Prepare career materials such as a resume′ and cover letter.
   C. Prepare and give a presentation on a biotechnology topic.

Methods of Evaluation of Competencies:

Evaluation of student mastery of course competencies will be accomplished using the following methods:

Exams            75%-90% of grade
Research paper   10%-25% of grade

Grading Scale:      
   A = 90 – 100%     
   B = 80 -  89%   
   C = 70 -  79%   
   D = 60 -  69%   
   F =  0 -  59%     

Caveats:

1. Computer Literacy Expectations: Students will need basic word processing and Internet searching skills for the completion of some papers, exercises and projects

Disabilities:

If you are a student with a disability, and if you will be requesting accommodations, it is your responsibility to contact Access Services. Access Services will recommend any appropriate accommodations to your professor and his/her director. The professor and director will identify for you which accommodations will be arranged.

JCCC provides a range of services to allow persons with disabilities to participate in educational programs and activities. If you desire support services, contact the office of Access Services for Students With Disabilities (913) 469-8500, ext. 3521 or TDD (913) 469-3885. The Access Services office is located in the Success Center on the second floor of the Student Center.