Learning Outcomes:
On completion of this module students should be able to: Describe the genetic consequences of meiotic cell division and fertilization and explain the particulate nature of the gene. Outline chromosome structure and the concepts of genetic recombination and linkage. Outline nucleic acid structures and conceptualise gene expression. Describe the molecular basis of mutation and mutagenesis. Outline methods used for in vitro laboratory manipulation of DNA. Describe methods used for molecular cloning of recombinant DNA. Outline methods used for genetic engineering in plant and animal agriculture. Discuss practical applications for transgenic plants and animals.
Indicative Module Content:
This module provides an overview of genetics and biotechnology, particularly as it applies to plant and animal agriculture. The module covers the following topics: Genetic consequences of cell division and gametogenesis; Mendelian genetics and extensions of Mendelian genetics; Population genetics; Chromosomal inheritance, recombination and genetic linkage; Structure and properties of nucleic acids; DNA replication and repair; The molecular basis of mutation; The genetic code and the path from gene to protein; Laboratory manipulation of DNA including hybridisation techniques, restriction enzymes and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR); Molecular cloning using DNA vectors; Genetic engineering and agriculture; Reproductive technologies; Transgenic plants and animals and gene pharming.
On completion of this module students should be able to: Describe the genetic consequences of meiotic cell division and fertilization and explain the particulate nature of the gene. Outline chromosome structure and the concepts of genetic recombination and linkage. Outline nucleic acid structures and conceptualise gene expression. Describe the molecular basis of mutation and mutagenesis. Outline methods used for in vitro laboratory manipulation of DNA. Describe methods used for molecular cloning of recombinant DNA. Outline methods used for genetic engineering in plant and animal agriculture. Discuss practical applications for transgenic plants and animals.