606-309 Cell Biology III

This is a joint botany and anatomy and cell biology and zoology subject

Botany 606-205 or zoology 654-203 or anatomy 516-201 or biochemistry 521-211 and 521-212.

BBiomedSc students: 521-213

Other combinations that provide a similar background will be considered by the coordinators.

Topics to be covered include:

• the importance and applications of cell biology;

• regulation of cell phenotype, cell transformation;

• recombinant protein technology;

• plant and animal genetic manipulation; transgenesis;

• molecular basis of cell interactions; applications of plant and animal cell culture;

• cell transplantation; gene therapy; and

• exploitation and commercialisation of cell biology; and ethical issues.

At the completion of this subject, students should have:

• an advanced level of understanding of the ways in which phenotype can be manipulated to explore cell and organ function, and in biotechnology of plants and animals;

• knowledge of the applications of cell biology in research, industry and human welfare, and policy and regulatory issues relevant to cell biology and biotechnology;

• enhanced presentation skills;

• developed problem-solving skills through tutorial exercises;

• the ability to think critically, and organise knowledge from consideration of the lecture material;

• learnt to adopt new ideas from participation in the lecture program;

• the ability to present a rational summary of the scientific argument presented in the lecture series; and

• the ability to present a well-organised and lucid argument by participating in the short seminar section of the subject.

A 3-hour written examination at the end of semester (60%), a review essay of no more than 3000 words (20%) and tests during the semester (20%).

All assessment components must be completed satisfactorily before credit can be granted for the subject.