Entry requirements

Evolution and diversity of organisms 10 credit points/15 credits.

Learning outcomes

After the course, the student should be able to:

� Account for structure formation of and function of DNA, RNA and proteins

� Understand the principles for gene regulation in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells

� Understand Mendelian genetics, family tree, gene cloning, restriction endonucleases, DNA-sequencing, PCR

� Understand how modern gene technologies are used to elucidate genetic issues.

� Critically analyse, evaluate and compile received results

Content

The course gives knowledge of genetics and gene technology from 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. Transfer of information between organisms: Meiosis, sexual reproduction and classical genetics; transfer of DNA between bacteria; viruses. Life cycle and alternation of generation. Gene Technology: restriction mapping, genetic libraries, expressions of foreign genes, DNA/genome-sequencing, PCR, microarrays.

The possibilities and limitations 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.

The course is divided in of three sub-courses: Molecular Biology, Genetics and Gene Technology, whose theoretical part all corresponds 4 credits (12 credits total). The practical part of the course, in the form of laboratory classes, is evaluated to 3 credits.

Instruction

The teaching is in the form of lectures, laboratory classes, seminars and assignments.

Participation in the group exercises and the laboratories is compulsory.

Assessment

Two written tests are held during the course. The first comprises the section Molecular Biology (4 credits); the second Genetics (4 credits). At the end of the course, there is a third written examination that comprises the whole course material with special emphasis on Gene Technology (4 credits). For the grade Pass (G) on the course it is required that all theoretical and practical parts (3 credits) are passed.