Classical and Molecular Genetics

(4 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This course is restricted to biological science, biochemistry, or neuroscience majors only. The course exposes students to classical and molecular genetics and demonstrates how these two approaches can combine to examine complex problems. The lecture is strongly weighted toward teaching students to solve genetic and molecular biological problems. The course is taught in a “flipped” format, where students watch recorded lectures and then come to class to apply the material in a variety of problems and exercises. Thus, a significant amount of time is spent helping students learn how to think like a geneticist, solving problems, and analyzing data. The course begins by exploring topics in classical genetic principles, such as Mendelian genetics, mitosis and meiosis, genetic linkage, chromosome structure and abnormalities. The course then builds on this foundation by discussing the “central dogma” of DNA replication, RNA transcription, and protein translation. The course then moves into learning how the tools of molecular biology (DNA sequencing, hybridization techniques, DNA cloning, generating mutants and transgenic animals) are used to study fundamental processes in genetics, gene regulation, and development. Throughout, the course employs examples in both model organisms and human diseases to demonstrate the relevance of the concepts being discussed. Students are presented with the techniques to apply underlying genetic principles through problem solving and data analysis. The large amount of time that is spent in class learning how to solve problems and analyze data prepares the student for exams that are based on the types of problems that are practiced in class and assigned to be worked on in small groups. The laboratory gives the students hands-on experience in a number of genetic and molecular techniques and demonstrates how many of the concepts covered in lecture are applied in generating a cohesive genetic picture.