Class Genetic Engineering

The Genetic Engineering CU is oriented towards the understanding, application, and mastery of methodologies associated with recombinant DNA technology. It aims to introduce students to the fundamental tools that enabled a revolution in modern biology, making a significant contribution to all areas of the Life Sciences. Genetic Engineering encompasses the study and targeted manipulation of the genetic material of bacteria, plants, animals, and human cells—aiming to understand the molecular mechanisms that allow for the cloning, expression, modification, and regulation of genes. This CU unit is essential for undergraduate training, as it brings students closer to the most modern methodologies, strategies, and practical applications, placing them at the forefront of technological and scientific innovation. It also develops skills for work in applied research laboratories, biotechnology companies, healthcare institutions, and the pharmaceutical industry.

Not applicable

Enzymes to modify DNA and restriction enzymes. Cloning vectors: Plasmids, Phagemids, Cosmids, BAC, YAC. Genomic and cDNA libraries. Analysis of cloned genes. DNA sequencing. Directed mutagenesis and knockout. Protein engineering. DNA manipulation in microorganisms, plants and animals. Cloning in bacteria and fungus. Strategies to transfer genes to animal cells, bacterias and plants Inducible expression systems. Recombinant induction systems. Site-specific recombination. Production of useful molecules. Recombinant therapeutic proteins. Manipulation of metabolic pathways Gene edition Improvement of agronomic characteristics by genetic manipulation. Resistance to diseases; abiotic stress; quality improvement. Genetic manipulation to study, prevent and cure diseases. Models for human diseases. DNA vaccines. Gene therapy.

With the aim of fostering critical thinking and enhancing students’ ability to apply acquired knowledge to real-world contexts, students will develop thematic seminars, guided by a problem-based learning  approach.. The interpretation and reading of articles that include the methodologies, developments and state-of-the-art applications. This approach is considered as an experience in a dry lab. Each seminar presentation will be followed by a structured discussion, encouraging participation from fellow students and promoting collaborative learning. This methodology not only strengthens knowledge retention but also develops key transversal skills such as teamwork, evidence-based argumentation, and scientific autonomy.

Primrose, S.B. and Twyman, R.M. Principles of Gene Manipulation and Genomics. Seventh Edition. Blackwell Publishing, (2006), Oxford, UK. Lodish, H., Berk, A., Matsudaira, P., Kaiser, C.A., Krieger, M., Scott, M.P., Zipursky, L., Darnell, J. Molecular Cell Biology.. Fifth Edition. Scientific American Books, (2010) New York, USA. Videira, A. Engenharia Genética ¿ Princípios e Aplicações. LIDEL-edições técnicas, (2015), Lisboa, Portugal