BL3302 Gene Regulation
(BL3302 online module handbook version 97)
This module builds on material covered in BL2302 Molecular Biology. It first considers the structure of genes and the composition of genomes and then examines genetic activity in eukaryotes in relation to nuclear organisation, chromatin structure and epigenetic mechanisms. Regulation of expression at the levels of gene transcription, RNA processing, RNA stability and translation are next covered in detail, drawing particular attention to the nature of protein-nucleic acid interactions. Specific control mechanisms in different prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, induced by environmental, cell cycle, and metabolic signals are highlighted.
*Credits: 20*
Semester: 1†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL2302 and ( pass BL2306 or pass BL2309 )*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL3302: Assessment
3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL3302: Contributing Staff †
BL3302: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL3302 successfully should be able to:
- be able to demonstrate a good knowledge and understanding of the topics outlined in this module
- be able to apply this knowledge and understanding to the specific areas of study in other modules
- be able to read research papers and listen to research talks with a better understanding
- be able to express clearly the content of research papers
- record experimental results and interpret data as well as report findings and conclusions in a precise and clear manner
BL3302: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
- Agarose gel
- DNA isolation
- Handling microbes
- Pipetting
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
- Protein purification
- Restriction digest
- SDS PAGE
- Western Blot
Transferable Skills
- Review article on given topic
- Lab safety awareness
- Concentrations
- Dilutions
- Lab or field notebook
- Designing experiments
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
