Module Details
Module Code: |
57087 |
Full Title:
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Advanced Veterinary Laboratory Techniques
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Valid From:: |
Semester 1 - 2020/21 ( September 2020 ) |
Language of Instruction: | English |
Module Owner:: |
Karen Dunne
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Module Description: |
This module will focus on the principles of molecular biology and genetics, and the practice of current and emerging laboratory techniques and skills required for modern veterinary practice. The relevant applications of these techniques and technologies, and their role in improving animal health, will be addressed.
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Module Learning Outcome |
On successful completion of this module the learner will be able to: |
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Module Learning Outcome Description |
MLO1 |
Analyse the principles of molecular biology, genetics and genomics. |
MLO2 |
Evaluate the importance of molecular diagnostics and identification of biomarkers. |
MLO3 |
Examine the principles of current and emerging laboratory techniques and technologies. |
MLO4 |
Appraise relevant molecular-based laboratory techniques and their applications in animal health, including identification of diseases and breeding studies. |
MLO5 |
Critically evaluate the implementation of advanced laboratory skills into the field of veterinary practice. |
MLO6 |
Demonstrate practical competence in selected laboratory techniques and relevant computer-based skills. |
Pre-requisite learning |
Module Recommendations
This is prior learning (or a practical skill) that is strongly recommended before enrolment in this module. You may enrol in this module if you have not acquired the recommended learning but you will have considerable difficulty in passing (i.e. achieving the learning outcomes of) the module. While the prior learning is expressed as named DkIT module(s) it also allows for learning (in another module or modules) which is equivalent to the learning specified in the named module(s).
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No recommendations listed |
Module Indicative Content |
Introduction to Molecular Biology
Overview of genetics. Mendelian genetics. Chromosomes, inheritance and gene mapping. Composition, structure and interactions of cellular molecules (nucleic acids and proteins). DNA replication and repair. Transcription and translation. Control of gene expression in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
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Animal Genetics and Genomics
Study of genes, genetic mutations and phenotypic changes leading to diseases. Genomes and genomic variation. Relevance of genomics in veterinary practice, including genetic identification of microbial pathogens and animal breeds. Importance of epigenetics and the environment. Role of nutrigenomics in animal health.
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Principles of Molecular-Based Laboratory Techniques
Overview of current and emerging laboratory techniques for veterinary practice, R&D and industry-based laboratories. Molecular diagnostics and biomarker discovery in animal health. Principles of essential, molecular-based laboratory techniques, including protein-based assays, DNA manipulation and high-throughput screening technologies. Limitations of assays.
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Applications in Animal Health
Overview of assays available for pathogen detection and characterisation, microbiome analysis, antibody detection, genetic identification and screening for diseases. Integration of molecular-based techniques into veterinary practices. Validation of diagnostic assays, GLP, quality assurance and regulatory standards/control measures e.g. ISO 17025, SOP’s. Importance of biobanking, biological sampling and processing techniques.
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Practical Laboratory Skills
Students will gain practical laboratory skills in a wide range of advanced laboratory techniques. Biochemical techniques include affinity chromatography, electrophoresis and ELISA. Molecular-based techniques include recombinant DNA technology, RT-PCR and qPCR. Computer skills will include the application and use of bioinformatics software e.g. NCBI, for accessing databases, analysis of sequences and primer design. Students may be asked to attend a compulsory on-site visit to a relevant molecular laboratory during the Semester.
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Module Assessment
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Assessment Breakdown | % |
Course Work | 30.00% |
Practical | 20.00% |
Final Examination | 50.00% |
Module Special Regulation |
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AssessmentsFull-time
Reassessment Requirement |
A repeat examination
Reassessment of this module will consist of a repeat examination. It is possible that there will also be a requirement to be reassessed in a coursework element.
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DKIT reserves the right to alter the nature and timings of assessment
Module Workload
Workload: Full-time |
Workload Type |
Contact Type |
Workload Description |
Frequency |
Average Weekly Learner Workload |
Hours |
Lecture |
Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
2.00 |
2 |
Tutorial |
Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
1.00 |
1 |
Practical |
Contact |
Weekly laboratory practical |
Every Week |
3.00 |
3 |
Directed Reading |
Non Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
5.00 |
5 |
Independent Study |
Non Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
5.00 |
5 |
Online (non-contact) |
Non Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
2.00 |
2 |
Total Weekly Learner Workload |
18.00 |
Total Weekly Contact Hours |
6.00 |
Workload: Part-time |
Workload Type |
Contact Type |
Workload Description |
Frequency |
Average Weekly Learner Workload |
Hours |
Lecture |
Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
1.00 |
1 |
Tutorial |
Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
0.50 |
0.5 |
Practical |
Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
3.00 |
3 |
Directed Reading |
Non Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
5.50 |
5.5 |
Independent Study |
Non Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
6.00 |
6 |
Online (non-contact) |
Non Contact |
No Description |
Every Week |
2.00 |
2 |
Total Weekly Learner Workload |
18.00 |
Total Weekly Contact Hours |
4.50 |
Module Resources
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Recommended Book Resources |
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Harvey F. Lodish. (2016), Molecular Cell Biology, 8th Ed.. W.H. Freeman - Macmillan Learning, New York.
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Frank W. Nicholas. (2009), Introduction to Veterinary Genetics, 3rd Ed.. Wiley-Blackwell, p.328.
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Monica V. Cunha and Joao Inacio. (2016), Veterinary Infection Biology: Molecular Diagnostics and High-Throughput Strategies, 1st Ed.. Springer Protocols, p.558.
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John Dascanio and Patrick McCue. (2014), Equine Reproductive Procedures, Wiley Blackwell.
| Supplementary Book Resources |
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Margi Sirois. (2015), Laboratory Procedures for Veterinary Technicians, 6th. Elsevier, St. Louis.
| This module does not have any article/paper resources |
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Other Resources |
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Website, Irish National Accreditation Board,
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Website, Teagsc Animal Bioscience,
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Website, National Centre for Biotechnology
Information,
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Website, Khan Academy,
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Link, DkIT Library Catalogue,
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