606-306 Plant Molecular Biology & Biotechnology

Botany 606-205 or Biochemistry 521-211.

This subject will examine the aspects of molecular and cellular biology and biochemistry that contribute unique properties to plants, and current techniques for their investigation and manipulation in biotechnology including genetic engineering and plant transformation. The subject includes cellular and molecular processes underlying the regulation of basic plant functions, including the responses of plants to biotic and abiotic stress; a detailed knowledge of structure and functions of plant lipids and of cell wall carbohydrates; an insight into cell-cell recognition during the response to pathogens and symbionts; and an understanding of the organisation of the genome in plants and its modification by biotechnology.

By the end of the subject, the student should have acquired an overall appreciation of the application of biotechnology to agriculture, horticulture, forestry and the food industry.

A written assignment of no more than 2000 words due during the semester (15%); a 20-minute oral presentation and 2-page written report during the semester (5%); practical reports totalling no more than 30 pages due during the semester (30%); a 2-hour written examination in the examination period (50%).