Entry requirements

Evolution and Diversity of Organisms 10 credits and Professional Qualifications in Biology and the Scientific Method 5 credits.

Learning outcomes

After the course, the student should be able to:

• account for structure formation of and function of DNA, RNA and proteins
• describe the principles for gene regulation in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
• describe Mendelian genetics, family tree, gene cloning, restriction endonucleases, DNA-sequencing, PCR
• use modern gene technologies are used to elucidate genetic issues
• critically analyse, evaluate and compile received results

Content

The course is an introduction to genetics and gene technology from an evolutionary perspective, and about the methods that are used in the area. The subject content is the following.

The structure of the genome: chromosomes, chromosomal structure, extrachromosomal inheritance. The molecular basis of the information: nucleic acids and proteins. DNA replication, DNA repair, mutations, recombination and transposition and amplification; transcription and translation. Examples of regulation of the gene expression. Transfer of information between organisms: Meiosis, sexual reproduction and classical genetics; transfer of DNA between bacteria; viruses. Life cycle and alternation of generation. Gene Technology: restriction mapping, genetic libraries, expressions of foreign genes, DNA/genome-sequencing, PCR, microarrays.

The possibilities and limitations of the gene technology are discussed.

The teaching comprises lectures, seminars and laboratory sessions where the genetics is elucidated from different aspects. During the seminars treating genetic problems and issues, the students are trained to discuss and make comparisons.

Instruction

The teaching is in the form of lectures, laboratory classes, seminars and assignments.

Participation in the group exercises and the laboratories is compulsory.

Assessment

Two written tests Molecular Biology (4 credits)and Genetics (4 credits) practical parts (seminars, laboratory sessions and reports) 2 credits.