Human Genetics: Genes in Human Health & Diseases

(4 Credits)

Why do some diseases pass from one generation to the next in families? Why are certain groups more susceptible to some genetic conditions? Is there a way to change genes to avoid or cure genetic diseases? This course explores how inheritance, environment, experience and random errors affect the information encoded in our genes, how this "blueprint" is interpreted by cellular machinery to build a complex human being, and how our heredity has resulted in our evolution. The lab part focuses (1) to enhance and reinforce understanding of the concepts presented in the lectures and (2) to further develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. The labs generally use tactile, hands-on experiences to provide additional means toward learning concepts. Prerequisite: None. Fulfillment: CORE ED