Medical Biotechnology 1200-1CHMBIMW5
The lecture begins with a concise introduction to biotechnology structured around the OECD colour classification system (red, white, green, blue, grey), accompanied by representative clinical and industrial case studies. Following a review of fundamental concepts in biochemistry, microbiology, cell biology, and core unit operations of chemical technology, the lecture explores conceptual models of drug production: biosynthesis of antibiotics, hormones, antibodies, and other recombinant proteins. This includes an overview of various expression systems (E. coli, yeast, mammalian cell lines, cell-free systems) and a breakdown of the continuous upstream–downstream process workflow.
Stem cell biology is covered in detail, including embryonic, induced pluripotent (iPSC), and adult sources, differentiation protocols, and clinical applications, with attention to the associated ethical considerations. The next section focuses on tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, covering polymer scaffolds, hydrogels, 3D bioprinting, and organoids, all supported with translational examples.
The structure and function of the human immune system are then addressed, starting from innate immunity (lysozyme, lactoferrin, complement system) and progressing to the adaptive response. This includes cytokines, complement activation, monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies, vaccine strategies, and immunotherapy.
The next part of the lecture delves into host–pathogen interactions and diagnostic innovations. Molecular mechanisms of bacterial and viral virulence are discussed, including biofilm formation, toxin production, and exotoxins. Both classical and alternative antimicrobial approaches are examined—ranging from antibiotics and resistance mechanisms to phage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, and lysins.
Gene therapy strategies follow, with a focus on delivery system design (e.g., liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, proton-sponge mechanisms), antisense oligonucleotides, siRNA, and the distinction between in vivo and ex vivo approaches.
The final module examines molecular diagnostics: comparison of phenotyping versus genotyping, the 16S rRNA marker, classical Sanger sequencing, pyrosequencing, and modern NGS platforms such as Illumina (denaturation, clustering, cyclic reads) and Nanopore (real-time sequencing), along with key steps in bioinformatic analysis.
All topics are contextualised within relevant regulatory and ethical frameworks, addressing GMO safety, gene therapy risk assessment, EMA/FDA guidelines, and public perceptions of emerging technologies.
Type of course
Mode
Prerequisites (description)
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
The student knows and understands:
K_W09 – has knowledge in the fields of molecular biology, genetics, and microbiology sufficient to understand the mechanisms of pathogenic organisms and their applications in medical biotechnology.
K_W12 – is familiar with selected laboratory and analytical techniques used in biology, chemistry, and biomedical sciences, including methods of detection, isolation, and analysis of genetic material.
K_W13 – understands basic concepts in immunology, immunity, and inflammatory processes; knows the mechanisms of action of vaccines and therapeutic antibodies.
K_W16 – knows technologies used in gene therapy, antibody production, and the design of biological drugs; understands the capabilities and limitations of genetic engineering in medical applications.
K_W18 – knows basic bioinformatics methods and high-throughput techniques (NGS) used in molecular diagnostics, as well as current achievements in nanobiotechnology.
The student is able to:
K_U10 – use scientific literature in both Polish and English and draw conclusions from current research in biotechnology and biomedical sciences.
K_U12 – independently analyze experimental data and research results in the field of medical biotechnology, including interpreting molecular and immunological analyses.
K_U15 – design and interpret a simple experiment in molecular biology or medical microbiology.
K_U16 – select appropriate diagnostic or therapeutic techniques depending on the type of pathogen or molecular disorder.
K_U21 – use bioinformatic tools to analyze DNA/RNA sequences and evaluate data obtained from NGS techniques.
The student is prepared to:
K_K02 – critically assess the significance of modern biotechnological technologies and their impact on public health.
K_K03 – identify and consider ethical, legal, and social aspects arising from the application of medical biotechnology.
K_K06 – undertake actions for continuous development of their knowledge and skills in biotechnology by analyzing literature, participating in seminars, and following scientific progress.
Total student workload: 75 hours, including:
• participation in lectures – 30 hours
• preparation for classes – 15 hours
• preparation for the final exam – 30 hours
Assessment criteria
Written and/or an oral exam, online (using the appropriate tools, e.g. GSuite or another package) or in the classroom. The exam covers the issues presented during the lectures. It takes the form of test questions, open-ended and descriptive questions, or oral communication. It is possible to organize two partial tests during the semester. Lack of attendance at the lecture is not penalized.
Assessment criteria: 5 (90-100%), 4.5 (80-89%), 4 (70-79%), 3.5 (60-69%), 3 (51-59%).
Bibliography
Bal J. (red.) (2013). Biologia molekularna w medycynie. Elementy genetyki klinicznej. Warszawa: Wydawnictwo Naukowe PWN. ISBN: 978-83-01-16665-6.
Clark D. P., Pazdernik N. J., McGehee M. R., & Rader B. A. (2021).
Biotechnology: The Technological Applications of Genetics and Genomics (3rd ed.). Elsevier. ISBN: 978-0-443-18484-0.
Farooq Z., Rather R. A., & Anwar M. (Eds.) (2022).
Fundamentals and Advances in Medical Biotechnology. Springer International Publishing, Cham. ISBN (print): 978-3-030-98553-0; ISBN (eBook): 978-3-030-98554-7.
Pongracz J., & Keen M. (2008). Medical Biotechnology. London: Churchill Livingstone, Elsevier.
Pongracz J., & Keen M. (2008). Medical Biotechnology. 1st ed. London: Churchill Livingstone, Elsevier.
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: