BIOL6161
Genes: Replication and Expression
A graduate course offered by the Biology Teaching and Learning Centre.
Code BIOL6161
Offered by Biology Teaching and Learning Centre
Course subject Biology
Areas of interest Genetics, Biology
Dr Joseph Brock
Genes: Replication and Expression (BIOL6161)
See https://www.anu.edu.au/covid-19-advice. In Sem 1 2022, this course is delivered on campus with adjustments for remote participants.
Genetics underpins many contemporary social issues in health and agriculture. Modern biology has been transformed by DNA sequencing of full genomes and the application of recombinant DNA technology to a range of problems, including inherited disease, cancer biology and drug development, evolution of pandemics, development of better crops, antibiotic action for example. Applying and evaluating genetic technologies relies on an understanding of the principles of molecular genetics, which will be covered in this course.
This course introduces the molecular mechanisms involved in the storage and expression of genetic information in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Topics to be covered include: genome structure and evolution, DNA structure and packaging; DNA replication and repair; transcription; regulation of gene expression; RNA processing; protein synthesis and the genetic code. These processes will be illustrated with case studies, ranging from the human genome and genetic disease to genetically modified crops.
The course includes a lab project that reinforces lecture material and introduces students to key strategies and techniques of molecular genetics.
Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately.
Explain the basic processes involved in the expression of genetic information (DNA replication; mutagenesis and DNA repair; mRNA transcription and processing; gene regulation; protein synthesis; genome structure and evolution)
Apply knowledge of the roles and functions of these processes to a range of problems and examples
Predict outcomes when these processes are perturbed by mutation (genetic disease) or the use of inhibitors and drugs
Elucidate differences in gene organization between prokaryotes and eukaryotes
Interpret and analyse experimental and theoretical problems involving these processes
Apply knowledge and research applications for example, in designing experiments or analysing examples from the literature
Communicate experimental results and conclusions in a scientific report
Please email rsb.studentadmin@anu.edu.au to request a permission code to enrol in this course.
Laboratory reports to apply knowledge to experimental/theoretical problem (33) [LO 2,3,5,6]
Tutorial tests to demonstrate mastery and understanding of content (20) [LO 1,2,3,4]
Assignments - linked to the laboratory course to extend understanding and application of both theory and techniques learnt (12) [LO 3,5,6,7]
Participation in PeerWise, a web-based activity where students create, answer and rate multiple choice questions (5) [LO 1,2,3,4]
Final exam to demonstrate understanding, interpretation and problem solving (30) [LO 1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
Face-to face component which may consist of 3 x 1 hour lectures per week (total 36 hours). 6 x 3 hours of practical sessions throughout the semester.
Up to 6 hours of tutorials
Approximately 70 hours of self-study which will include preparation for lectures, presentations and other assessment tasks.
You are not able to enrol in this course if you have completed BIOL2161
You will need to contact the Biology Teaching and Learning Centre to request a permission code to enrol in this course.
Genetics: a conceptual approach. Pierce, B. 6th or 7th edition
3150 21 Feb 2022 28 Feb 2022 31 Mar 2022 27 May 2022 In Person N/A