Department of Materials Science &
Engineering
Module Description 2012/13
Module Code: MAT209
Module Title: Cell and Molecular Biology
Module Convenor: Dr G Reilly
Module Links:
Credits: 10
Semester: 2
Pre-requisites: MAT1510 and MAT1520
Co-requisites: MAT2530
Brief Description (including aims of the course):
This course provides an introduction to biochemistry and molecular biology that builds
on the anatomy, physiology and cell biology learnt at Level 1. It starts with the chemical
components of living cells and progresses by understanding how simple chemicals
become macromolecules and, in turn, form lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. How
macromolecules form individual components of a living cell such as the membrane,
chromosomes and mitochondria is also considered. The essential functions of the cell
including metabolism, DNA replication and genetic transcription are then discussed.
Finally, how a complex of cells can form a tissue is examined.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Have gained in-depth knowledge in understanding human biochemistry, cell and
molecular biology;

Demonstrate an in depth knowledge of the internal structure and function of the
cell;.

Demonstrate an ability to relate this knowledge to the function of a tissue;.

Have an in depth knowledge of how the biochemistry of the cell influences
disease;

Have written an essay involving a detailed investigation into a relevant subject
area.
Assessment:
Exam: 90%
Essay: 10%
Booklist (A) Core Test; (B) Secondary Text; (C) Peripheral Reading:
(A) Essential Cell Biology: An Introduction to the Molecular Biology of the Cell. Bruce
Alberts, Dennis Bray, Alexander Johnson, Julian Lewis, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts and
Peter Walter © 1998 Garland Publishing.
(B) Molecular Biology of the Cell: Fourth Edition. Bruce Alberts, Alexander Johnson, Julian
Lewis, Martin Raff, Keith Roberts, Peter Walter © 2002 Garland Publishing