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 the consequences of different types of mutations including DNA-reparation systems
• describe the cell cycle, Mendelian genetics, family tree, recombination, gene cloning, restriction enzymes , DNA-sequencing, PCR
• use some and understand several modern gene technologies to elucidate genetic issues
• critically analyse, evaluate and compile received results

Content

The course is an introduction to molecular biology and genetics with emphasis on 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. Inheritance of genetic information : meiosis, sexual reproduction and classical genetics; transfer of DNA between bacteria; viruses. Gene Technology: restriction mapping, genetic libraries, expressions of foreign genes, DNA/genome-sequencing, PCR, microarrays.

The possibilities, limitations and ethics 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, and exercises in problem solving.

Participation in the laboratory sessions is compulsory.

Assessment

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

Other directives

The course is part of a course package and can only be read concurrently with the course 1BG112 Microbiology with Infection Biology 5 credits. Can not simultaneously be credited with 1BG101 Genetics and Genetic Engineering 15 credits or 1BG111 Genetics and Genetic Engineering 10 credits.