212-315 Molecular Biology & Biotechnology

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HECS Band

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Subject Description

It is expected that on the completion of the subject students should gain an understanding of the genes at the molecular level and a knowledge of genetic engineering techniques for manipulation of important traits. The topics to be covered include; the structure and arrangement of the genome in eukaryotes contrasted with the prokaryote genome; the mechanism and regulation of gene expression in higher organisms, both plants and animals, both at the RNA and DNA level; the molecular basis of tissue and organelle specific gene expression; modern methods of genetic engineering including details of vector systems currently being applied to plants and animals of agricultural importance; biotechnological approaches for manipulation of commercially important traits in crop plants such as improved nutritional quality, seed oil composition, disease resistance and tolerance to abiotic stresses; biotechnological approaches to improved post harvest characteristics of horticultural produce; the use of reproductive technology, genetic markers and transgenics for genetic improvement of animals; transgenic animals as bioreactors; application of biotechnology for improvement of pastures; risks and concerns regarding environmental release of transgenic organisms; and intellectual property issues in biotechnology.

Assessment

A 2-hour end-of-semester written examination; and one written assignment (up to 3000 words).