Gene structure, function and applications

Objectives:

The course gives a detailed understanding of molecular structures, functions and applications of the genetic material in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Introduction to bioethics.

Content:

This course deals with the structure of DNA, RNA, chromatin and genome, and how maintenance of the genome through replication, as well as genome expression through gene regulation, transcription, RNA splicing and translation. Furthermore, gene technology methods and applications of genetic analyses will be explored. Bioethics will be discussed.

On completion of the course the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• can explain DNA structure and topology, RNA structure, chromatin organization and modification with emphasis on function in gene regulation.
• can explain in detail about replication, transcription and translation
• can explain in detail about molecular mechanisms in gene regulation at all levels
• can compare molecular mechanisms in gene regulation in pro-and eukaryotic organisms
• can explain applications of genetic engineering, genetic analyses and biotechnology.
• can explain basic principles of immunology and vaccinology
• can reflect on ethical issues raised by molecular biology research and application

Skills

The student

• can communicate knowledge about DNA and RNA structure and function
• has the skill to compare molecular mechanisms in gene regulation to show similarities and differences between pro- and eukaryotic organisms
• have knowlegde of applications of genetic engineering and biotechnology
• can communicate knowlegde of basic principles within immunology and vaccinology
• adress ethical issues using genetic engineering and application

General competence

The student

• Can communicate about gene structure, function, regulation and application
• Can reflect on ethical issues using genetic engineering

Autumn.

This course has a limited capacity, enrolment is based on application. The application deadline is Wednesday in week 33 for the autumn semester. Please see this page for more information. You will receive confirmation of whether you received a seat in Studentweb no later than Monday the week after the deadline.

It is compulsory to attend the first lecture/orientation meeting, or you risk losing your seat. If you are unable to attend the first lecture, you must contact the Study Section (studie.bio@uib.no). The time of the first lecture/orientation meeting can be found in the schedule on the course website or on Mitt UiB.