Objectives and competences
This course unit involves the development of a laboratory project, supervised during classes by professors, where each group will have its own theme aiming at:
Understanding various Microbiology and Molecular Biology techniques
Consolidation of basic Microbiology techniques and their connection with Molecular Microbiology
Development of skills in problem-solving and interpretation of results in a laboratory environment
Development of autonomy in the laboratory
Development of the ability to plan and execute experimental activities
Development of the ability to compile, organize, discuss and integrate experimental results into a written work;
Development of the ability to orally present the work carried out.
Teaching Methodologies
The UC consists of theoretical-practical classes, tutorial guidance and laboratory practical classes. Throughout the UC students will be in charge of applying techniques within the scope of the UC to solve something specific-applicability. The themes will be chosen by the students focusing on the most recent techniques in the area. At the end of the UC, the work is presented to the teachers and the whole class.
Laboratory classes are done in groups, but conducted by the teachers. The concept of microbial isolation from a matrix, extraction of genetic material and search for specific genes or proteins is introduced.
Syllabus
Preparation of culture media, isolation of bacteria from a sample
Obtaining pure cultures. Storage and freezing. Confirmatory biochemical and morphological tests.
DNA extraction
PCR technique - amplification of the 16S gene
Electrophoresis - preparation of an agarose gel; application of gel samples and visualization of the gel.
Preparation and shipment of PCR products for sequencing
Basic bioinformatics to handle the sequencing results for species identification. BLAST. Fragment analysis.
Transformation: Preparation of competent cells, plasmid insertion and confirmation
Tutorial orientation - Presentation of techniques by different groups and their applications based on scientific articles to be researched.
Theoretical-Practical- Theoretical foundations to support practical classes. Systematic approach to microbiological techniques and Molecular Biology. Fundamentals of bioinformatics.
