Course details
Applied Molecular and Cellular Biology
MPA-MOL FEKT MPA-MOL Acad. year 2026/2027 Winter semester 6 credits
The course provides an in-depth understanding of physiological and pathophysiological processes in living organisms at the molecular level. It examines the molecular differences and interactions among eukaryotic, prokaryotic, and viral systems, with a focus on key cellular processes, biomolecular mechanisms, and regulatory networks that govern life at the molecular and cellular scale. Students will gain insight into genome organization, gene expression, protein structure and function, enzymatic mechanisms, and the roles of non-coding RNAs, as well as the molecular basis of immune responses, cellular differentiation, and development.
Students will acquire comprehensive theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with modern experimental and computational techniques, including DNA/RNA analysis, protein characterization, high-throughput sequencing, omics technologies, and bioinformatic data analysis. These foundations are essential for applications in biomedicine, genetic engineering, biotechnology, and commercial bioproduction, preparing students to address contemporary challenges .
Guarantor
Language of instruction
Completion
Time span
- 20 hrs lectures
- 39 hrs laboratories
- 4 hrs projects
Department
Learning objectives
The aim of the course is to provide students with advanced knowledge of the molecular biological differences between eukaryotes, prokaryotes, and viruses, including their interactions, and to foster understanding of the principles governing cellular function and regulation. The course emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, linking molecular biology with biomedical research and biotechnological applications, including aspects of commercial biotechnological production.
Students will learn to interpret molecular processes, critically evaluate experimental data, and apply molecular biology principles in theoretical, computational, and practical contexts. The course also develops the ability to integrate knowledge from molecular biology, biotechnology, and biomedical research, work effectively in multidisciplinary teams, and address contemporary challenges in modern biomedical and biotechnological research.
Prerequisite knowledge and skills
Students should be able to explain the fundamental principles of classical genetics and demonstrate knowledge of basic concepts and laws of molecular biology. In general, knowledge at the bachelor’s degree level is expected.
Participation in laboratory work is conditional upon holding a valid qualification as a “trained person” in accordance with § 4 of Government Regulation No. 194/2022 Coll., which students must obtain prior to the start of practical sessions. Information on obtaining this qualification is provided in the Dean’s Directive “Informing Students to Safety Regulations.”
Study literature
- ALBERTS, B., JOHNSON, A., LEWIS, J., MORGAN, D., RAFF, M., ROBERTS, K. & WALTER, P. Molecular Biology of the Cell. 7th ed. New York: W. W. Norton & Company, 2022.
Fundamental literature
- SLABÝ, Ondřej; Iva SLANINOVÁ; Jiří ŠÁNA; Kateřina CETKOVSKÁ; Stjepan ULDRIJAN; Lívia EISELLEOVÁ a Lenka BEŠŠE. Medical biology I. Cell and Molecular Biology. 1. vyd. Brno: Masarykova univerzita, 2022. ISBN 978-80-280-0158-2.
- SLABÝ, Ondřej. Medical Biology II. Genetics and Molecular Medicine. 1. vyd. Brno: Masarykova univerzita, 2023. ISBN 978-80-280-0459-0.
Syllabus of lectures
1. Origin and Evolution of Molecular and Cellular Systems
2. Cellular Organization and Functional Diversity
3. Biomolecular Foundations of Cellular Functions
4. Genome Structure and Genetic Information
5. Gene Expression and Regulatory Mechanisms
6. Transcriptomics and the Biology of Non-Coding RNAs
7. Microbial and Viral Systems in Host Interaction
8. Developmental Biology and Stem Cell Biology
9. Applied Molecular Methods I – Nucleic Acids
10. Applied Molecular Methods II – Proteins and Metabolites
11. Applications in Biotechnology and Biomedicine
Syllabus of laboratory exercises
1. Introduction to the Laboratory, Absorption Spectroscopy
2. DNA Isolation from Bacteria
3. DNA Isolation from Animal Cells
4. Assessment of DNA Quality and Quantity
5. In Silico Design of PCR Primers
6. PCR Amplification
7. Cell Passaging
8. Bradford Assay for Protein Quantification, Colorimetric Reactions of Amino Acids
9. In Silico Restriction Enzyme Digestion
10. Restriction Enzyme Digestion II
11. Quantitative Real-Time PCR
12. Two-Dimensional Electrophoresis of Isolated Proteins
Syllabus - others, projects and individual work of students
Students will work in small teams to explore selected modern laboratory techniques used in contemporary biomedical and biological research (e.g. advanced CRISPR–Cas systems, cryo-CT microscopy, organ-on-chip technologies, and omics approaches). They will analyse a chosen method in the context of commonly used techniques, focusing on its basic principles, key technical characteristics, advantages and limitations, and areas of application in basic and applied research. Students will also compare the selected method with traditional approaches and discuss possibilities for data processing and interpretation, including relevant analytical and bioinformatic tools. Project outcomes will be presented in the form of a mini-conference, where students will present their work to instructors and peers and participate in professional discussion.
Progress assessment
The overall assessment of the course is based on a combination of continuous evaluation of laboratory exercises, a project, and an oral examination:
Up to 40 points for laboratory exercises (including one test, active participation in laboratory sessions, and independent preparation)
Up to 20 points for the project
Up to 40 points for the oral examination
The oral examination evaluates students’ knowledge and comprehension of advanced concepts in molecular biology, biotechnology, and modern molecular methods.
Laboratory attendance is mandatory. Legitimately excused absences may only be made up with prior approval from the instructor.
Course inclusion in study plans