Module Code - Title:
CH6022
-
UPSTREAM PROCESSING
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
N
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
This online module will provide students with an up-to-date knowledge of upstream processing of biomolecules, specifically the production of recombinant proteins in different expression systems.
Syllabus:
Introduction to pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals and biologics. The drug discovery and development process. Regulatory route for new drugs in USA & EU. Protein synthesis and structure. Gene manipulation and recombinant DNA technology. Sources of biopharmaceuticals. Cell banking systems. Media design and sterilization. Upstream processing and basics in cultivation: microbial cell fermentation and mammalian cell culture systems. Bioreactor design and operation. Post-translational modifications of recombinant proteins. Glycosylated proteins. Metabolic Engineering to Control Glycosylation. Alternative expression systems.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
On completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Describe the typical Biopharmaceutical process and routes from drug discovery to process development.
2. Describe best practices on cell line development and culture strategies.
3. Possess a knowledge of bioprocess design strategies for both low and high volume products.
4. Discuss the advantages and, disadvantages of the different types of bioreactors available as well as their mode of operation.
5. Discuss essential principles underlining modern biotechnology including recombinant DNA technology.
6. Describe the steps required for protein synthesis including post-translational modifications.
7. Independently identify and evaluate pertinent information from scientific and additional literature sources.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
On completion of this module students will be able to:
Appreciate the importance and the value of the knowledge to be obtained particularly of the importance of the role of upstream processing within the manufacture of biopharmaceuticals
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
On completion of this module students will be able to:
1. Sketch out the practical operation of basic bioreaction systems in upstream processing.
2. Demonstrate effective communication skills.
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
The module is delivered online through a combination of lectures and group tutorial sessions. Recent research developments are included in the module through review of published articles from Bioprocess journals, and industrial awareness is generated through the use of industrial case studies. In the course of the module, students undertake 1 group project to research a current topic of interest in bioprocess science, developing their collaborative skills in line with the UL graduate attributes.
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
G. Walsh (2007)
Pharmaceutical Biotechnology: Concepts and Applications
, Wiley
M. Butler (2007)
Cell Culture and Upstream Processing
, Taylor and Francis Group
Other Relevant Texts:
P.M. Doran (2012)
Bioprocess Engineering Principle
, Academic Press
G. Walsh (2013)
Biopharmaceuticals: Biochemistry and Biotechnology
, Wiley
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Spring
Module Leader:
Generic PRS