BIO07035 2020 Introduction to Biopharmaceutical Science

Demonstrate knowledge of the various technologies and disciplines that contribute to Biotechnology and Biopharmaceutical drug target discovery

Identify and describe the different types of Biopharmaceutical products including proteins, antibodies, hormones, nucleic acids etc.

Explain the fundamental techniques of genetic engineering and provide examples of their use in the production of bioproducts.

Evaluate cell models for expression of exogenous gene products and explain the process of gene expression and regulation within these systems.

Compare routes of delivery for biopharmaceuticals (e.g. pulmonary, parenteral, transdermal) and evaluate current and novel drug delivery systems designed for biopharmaceutical products.

Online delivery and associated facilities/means

Assessment of the Introduction to Biopharmaceuticals module will include both continuous assessment and a terminal exam.  Continuous assessment  will involve a range of assessment types including e.g. multiple choice quizzes and small individual project.  The multiple choice quizzes will assess subject knowledge while the small project will allow students to work independently to source, interpret and apply appropriate and referenced literature on a given topic. 

Standard arrangements

Introduction to the most commonly produced biopharmaceutical products and their methods of production.

• Structure and function of proteins. 
• Synthesis of proteins.
• The role of immunology, antibody technologies.
• The Endocrine System & Biohormones. 
• Vaccines, Antisense technology & Biosimilars. 

Fundamental techniques of genetic engineering 

• Cloning
• PCR
• Restriction enzymes
• Vector systems

Expression Systems

• Process of gene expression and regulation 
• Cell line selection for optimal protein expression.  
• Transformation & Transfection technologies