GE3M09 Eukaryotic Molecular Genetics
| Co-ordinator | Professor Frank Wellmer |
|---|---|
| Lecturer(s) | Professor Kevin Devine (GE3013) and Professor Mani Ramaswami (GE3047) |
| Module Type | Optional |
| Assessment: | 100% Examination |
| Credits: | 2.5 |
| Duration: | GE3013 - 8 lectures (4 lectures per week); 1st semester GE3047 - 8 lectures (1 lecture per week); 2nd semester |
Description:
These classes focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying gene expression in prokaryotic (GE3013) and eukaryotic (GE3047) organisms. The concepts and ideas discussed in this class provide the basis for the understanding of gene expression in plants and other eukaryotes.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the general concepts of gene expression and the underlying molecular mechanisms in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. This includes the regulation of gene expression and transcriptional initiation, as well as RNA synthesis and processing.
| Lecturer(s) | Professor Tony Kavanagh |
|---|---|
| Module Type | Optional |
| Assessment: | 100% Examination |
| Credits: | 2.5 |
| Duration: | 16 lectures (2 lectures per week); 2nd semester |
Description:
The almost universal adoption of Arabidopsis thaliana as a model organism for plant molecular genetic analyses in the early 1990s has transformed our understanding of plant form and function. This module provides an introduction to (i) Arabidopsis and plant genome structure; (ii) the elucidation of the molecular basis of light perception and signalling; (iii) hormone perception and signalling (focusing on the gaseous hormone ethylene); (iv) self-incompatibility systems that act to prevent self-pollination; (v) how plants recognize and defend themselves against pathogens; (vi) the Rhizobium-legume nitrogen fixing association; (vii) genetic transformation by Agrobacterium tumefaciens; and (viii) transgenic plants in Biotechnology and agriculture.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module students will be able to:
- Appreciate the importance of focusing on a model organism to explore fundamental questions in biology
- Appreciate the importance of genetic and molecular approaches in the exploration of complex questions in plant biology
- Understand the molecular mechanisms underlying light and hormone perception and signalling
- Understand the molecular mechanisms determining recognition and response in the interaction between plants and (a) Agrobacterium, (b) Rhizobium (c) pathogens;
- Understand the role and mechanism of recognition and response in determining the outcome of pollination in flowering plants
- Appreciate the contribution plant genetics and biotechnology can make in agriculture and biotechnology