Molecular Genetics

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2008:

Genetics 652-214 and 652-215.

BBiomedSc students: Genetics 652-214, 521-213 and 536-250.

Upon completion of this subject students should have:

• developed a general understanding of the molecular structure of genes and the molecular basis of genetic processes, including the various mechanisms that regulate the expression of genes, in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes;

• an appreciation of recently discovered molecular mechanisms for generating the diversity of gene products and controlling their expression;

• an understanding of the basic techniques involved in recombinant DNA analysis and genomics, and application of these tools to solve specific biological problems and determine gene function using gene manipulation, gene inactivation and/or transfer of genes between organisms;

• an ability to interpret data generated using standard molecular methods and an appreciation for, and understanding of, the way in which information in this field is obtained and presented through the study of primary research papers and review articles; and

• acquired the basic concepts and knowledge to enable them to critically appraise newly reported findings in molecular genetics and do more advanced courses in a wide range of areas of cellular and molecular biology.

This subject focuses on gene structure, function and regulation, which form the molecular basis of many important biological phenomena such as short-term organismal and cellular responses to rapid changes in environmental conditions and long-term controls of development and pathologies such as heritable diseases and cancer. The molecular mechanisms underlying these phenomena are frequently exploited in biotechnology, medical and agricultural applications. The techniques used to study these processes often make use of endogenous mechanisms for gene disruption and gene transfer.

The topics to be covered in this subject include prokaryotic gene structure, action and regulation; genomic and recombinant DNA methodology; eukaryotic gene structure, action and regulation; genetic manipulation of micro-organisms, plants and animals and genetic engineering; genome structure; prokaryotic and eukaryotic mobile DNA elements and their uses; and genetic control of the cell cycle.

One multiple-choice class test held mid-semester (10%); two online assignments/problem-solving tasks due during the semester (15%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (75%).