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Department of Chemical Engineering, Unit Catalogue 2011/12


CE40169: Molecular and cellular biochemical engineering

Click here for further information Credits: 6
Click here for further information Level: Masters UG & PG (FHEQ level 7)
Click here for further information Period: Semester 1
Click here for further information Assessment: CW 20%, EX 80%
Click here for further information Supplementary Assessment: Like-for-like reassessment (where allowed by programme regulations)
Click here for further information Requisites:
Click here for further information Description: Aims:
To provide an understanding of how the properties of biologically active molecules and cells can be exploited for the development of biologically-derived products, novel tissue constructs, reactor systems, analytical devices and drug delivery devices.

Learning Outcomes:
After completing this unit, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the concepts and theories relating to the biospecific molecular interactions that can occur in biochemical systems. They should be able to derive the key isotherm equations used to describe ligand-receptor interactions and relate these to kinetic expressions for biological activity. They should be aware of how biological components can be incorporated into composite devices developed for analytical and drug release applications and how models describing the fundamental interactions can be used in the design of such systems. They should appreciate the significance of quantitative cellular properties including structure, function and signalling mechanisms in cell-based therapies.

Skills:
Analysis and problem solving (taught/facilitated and assessed).

Content:
Introduction to lectins, antibodies and cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). Derivation of ligand receptor binding expressions, development of kinetic models for multi-substrate and reversible enzyme catalysed reactions. Methods of protein immobilisation and effects on intrinsic and kinetic properties. Use of enzymes in analytical devices and the significance of mass transfer limitations. Development of dilution assays based on antibodies and enzymes (ELISA). Role of CAMs in cell-matrix interactions and their importance in the design and synthesis of scaffold materials for tissue engineering applications. Cell signalling mechanisms and pathways. Diffusion and mass transfer in cellular systems. Development of responsive hydrogels for use in "intelligent" drug delivery systems.
Click here for further informationProgramme availability:

CE40169 is Compulsory on the following programmes:

Department of Chemical Engineering
  • UECE-AFM01 : MEng (hons) Biochemical Engineering (Full-time) - Year 4
  • UECE-AKM01 : MEng (hons) Biochemical Engineering (Full-time with Thick Sandwich Placement) - Year 5

CE40169 is Optional on the following programmes:

Department of Chemical Engineering
  • UECE-AFM05 : MEng (hons) Chemical Engineering (Full-time) - Year 4
  • UECE-AKM05 : MEng (hons) Chemical Engineering (Full-time with Thick Sandwich Placement) - Year 5

NB. Programmes and units are subject to change at any time, in accordance with normal University procedures.