521-302 Functional Genomics

Biochemistry 521-211, 521-212 and either 521-220 or both 521-221 and 521-222 (prior to 2001); or 521-024.

BBiomedSc students: 521-213 and 536-250.

By the end of the program the student should have developed a detailed understanding of current concepts concerning the molecular bases of genome structure and the regulation of gene expression in eukaryotic organisms (yeast, animals and plants); a theoretical background to recombinant DNA technology and an appreciation of its biomedical and biotechnological applications; an appreciation of the significance and applications of human and related genome sequencing programs; and the ability to read critically original scientific literature in the field. Subject content includes structure of genes and chromosomes; identification and functional characterisation of candidate genes for human familial disease (major example, breast cancer); molecular aspects of transcription and RNA maturation; regulation of gene expression at the transcriptional and translational levels; gene expression profiling and proteomics; ribosome biogenesis as a major example of the coordination of gene expression and RNA processing; biochemistry and molecular biology of cell cycle control and carcinogenesis; proto-oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes; ribozymes and the catalytic and antisense functions of RNA; applied genomics; and recombinant DNA technology, including recombinant protein expression systems with particular reference to investigations based on transfected cell culture, transgenic and gene knockout systems.

A 2.5-hour end-of-semester written examination (80%) plus continuous assessment based on up to four short tests and/or oral presentation and written assignment (20%).

• H Lodish et al, Molecular Cell Biology. 4th ed., Sci. Amer. Books, 2000.