536-350 Genes to Phenotype:Control & Integration

Note

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Prerequisites

Biochemistry and molecular biology 521-213 plus physiology 536-250.

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

The subject will provide a broad picture of the role of genes in the function and integrated control of cells, tissues and whole organisms, particularly mammals. The aim will be to develop an understanding of the role of genes in the context of whole animals by investigating the embryological, physiological and biochemical consequences of natural genetic variations and experimental genetic manipulations, using contemporary molecular biology techniques. The subject will address issues such as functional interaction of systems, integration and coordinated control of systems, homeostasis and adaptation to change. The juxtaposition of the subject with Genomic Science (521-308) complements the emphasis on the fundamental involvement of molecular systems in critical integrated macrobiological processes to be emphasised include those linked with hormonal systems and receptors featuring in pregnancy and delivery and further exemplified in early embryonic development, growth, puberty, biological rhythms and changes associated with aging. Genetic determination of control will also be covered including endocrine, paracrine, autocrine and intracrine mechanisms and their molecular components, developmental stage- and tissue-specific gene regulation, the biological clock and the existence and programming of master genes. Finally, beyond these internal workings, the adaptive responses to environmental stress will provide other examples of detection systems and integrated responses to change and will be briefly considered in the context of the molecular basis of evolution and population genetics. The practical component will consist of visits to relevant research and/or industrial laboratories and complementary library and computer-based exercises with a view to developing a research proposal in a specific area relevant to material covered in lectures.

Assessment

A 2-hour end-of-semester written examination on the theory and practical components of the subject (70%) plus one written research proposal assignment of about 2000 words (30%).