Introduction to Biology 3: Molecular Genetics and Molecular Biology

Description

How is an organism’s structure and function regulated? The answer to this question lies within the inherited DNA. Genetics have evolved phenomenally since Mendel first introduced the concept of genes during the mid-1800s. Today genetics is used in all phases of life from food to medicines, new discoveries tend to manipulate genetics not only to diagnose and find better cure for deadly diseases like cancer but also to design smart plants and microbes to enhance the quality and quantity of food and secondary metabolites such as biofuel. Hence a thorough knowledge of genetics is an absolute requirement for biologists to comprehend the complexity of living organisms. Specifically, you will learn in detail about the structure, function and regulation of chromosomes and genes Variation in phenotype is important for evolution. This is usually accompanied by underlying genetic variation. We will therefore study how genetic variation comes about, and focus on some model organisms used for genetic studies. Subsequently we will learn about the inheritance of complex traits and population genetics. This course will provide basic as well as advanced understanding of the concepts and tools that are used in molecular genetics and molecular biology. Then we will discuss how to evaluate and design key cutting-edge research in the field of molecular biology.