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Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Science : Anatomy and Cell Biology

516-302 Cell and Developmental Biology

Note:

Experiments involving the use of animals are an essential part of this subject; exemption is not possible.

Credit Points:

16.0

Coordinator:

Dr John F Bertram and Dr Seong-Seng Tan

Prerequisite/s:

Previous study in a biological discipline at 200-level. Anatomy and Cell Biology 516-201, Biochemistry 521-211 and 521-212 (Prior to 1997: 521-201) or 606-206 and 606-216 Cell Biology 11. Cellular Interactions recommended.

Timetable:

Semester 2

Contact:

26 lectures (two a week) and 39 hours practical (three hours a week)

Objectives:

This subject aims to provide an understanding of how higher organisms with multiple and complex functions develop from simple embryos. Emphasis will be placed on molecular, biochemical and cellular events. Experimental work will be used to reinforce these concepts of cell and developmental biology. Upon completion of this subject students should:

  • comprehend some of the molecular, biochemical and cellular events leading to the development of specialised cells from simple cells; some of the molecular, biochemical and cellular events leading to the development of complex organisms from simple embryos; some of the modern techniques that can be used to study cell and developmental biology;

  • develop an understanding of the process of scientific research into cell and developmental biology; an understanding of general themes and hypotheses regarding development;

  • appreciate the strengths and limitations of modern approaches for studying cell and developmental biology; the future direction of research into cell and developmental biology; the importance of one's own observations in research.

Content:

From egg to embryo. Developmental gene expression. Recombinant DNA techniques. Gene transfer to study development. Cytoskeleton. Extracellular matrix/cellular environment. Growth factors/cytokines. The specialised cell. Cell movement. Cell differentiation. Tools for studying cells.

Assessment:

A 2-hour end-of-semester written examination, practical work throughout the semester.

Prescribed Texts:

  • Alberts B, Bray D, Lewis J, Raff M, Roberts K and Watson J D, Molecular Biology of the Cell, 3rd ed. 1994 Garland Publishing.
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Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Science : Anatomy and Cell Biology 
Status:                   OFFICIAL 1997
Last Modified:            Wednesday March 12 3:36 pm
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Email Enquiries:          Course_Information@registrar.unimelb.edu.au
Copyright © University of Melbourne 1997.