This course will examine some of the fundamental principles of cellular processes at the molecular level. Among the major topics covered are nucleic acid chemistry, gene structure and organization in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, gene expression, and recombinant DNA and transgenic/knockout (including conditional knockout) mouse technology. The topic of the CRISPR/Cas system used for gene editing is also be included. In addition, the idea of genes and genomes will be discussed with an introduction to functional and comparative genomics. In particular, emphasis in the second half of the semester will be on the various modes of regulation of gene expression and protein synthesis, and some of the various methodologies utilized to address these topics. In addition, the concepts of siRNA, miRNA, and the phenomenon of RNA-interference will be covered with the topic of micro-RNA and disease, and the importance of these small non-coding RNA molecules, highlighted by presentation of material from the scientific literature. Also included will be a major publication showing how RNA interference can be used as a tool to unlock the secrets of human embryonic stem cells. A number of commonly used molecular biology and biochemical lab techniques will also be covered, in addition to more recent tools such as RNA seq that can be used to address global changes in transcriptional profiles.
Course prerequisites: At least one 100/200 level class in Biology and one 100/200 level class in Chemistry or Biochemistry.
This course does not count toward the undergraduate biology major. MA in Biology students should register for the IDENT L41 5005. Undergrads and PBPM students should register for 4005.
Course Attributes: AS NSM; FA NSM; BU SCI
