GEN3030 · Molecular, cellular and developmental genetics

Overview

The ability to monitor and manipulate gene activity in experimental models is critical to advance our understanding of how genes control phenotypes. This unit will explore in depth the latest techniques for studying gene expression and function, with an emphasis on developing skills in scientific literacy and experimental design using approaches in molecular, cellular, and developmental genetics. This includes assaying and visualizing gene expression and protein subcellular localization in vivo, methods for artificially activating or inhibiting gene activity including generating transgenic organisms and comparative, and bioinformatic methods for inferring gene function. This will be demonstrated using examples from research on the function genes underlying fundamental cellular, developmental, and physiological processes, such as differentiation and growth, programmed cell death, cell-cell communication, cell movement, tissue patterning, neuronal signalling, and cellular homeostasis and metabolism. Finally, we will explore how gene function changes with environmental conditions and with evolution.

Areas of study: Genetics and genomics Plant sciences Zoology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Compare and contrast techniques used to study gene function, including techniques to monitor gene transcription and protein cellular localisation and to manipulate gene activity in living organisms;
2. Articulate the advantages provided by the use of model laboratory organisms to investigate molecular, cellular and developmental processes;
3. Illustrate the application of gene function analysis techniques to advance medical, biological, agricultural, biotechnology and environmental research;
4. Collect, analyse, interpret and present genetic data effectively in the preparation of scientific reports and presentations;
5. Synthesise and critique new discoveries from the scientific literature in molecular, developmental and cellular genetics.

Workload

• One 1-hour lecture • One 2-hour workshop • One 3-hour laboratory session and • Six hours of self-directed study per week

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.