654-304 Reproduction

Experiments involving the use of animals are an essential part of this subject: exemption is not possible.

Credit cannot be gained for both this subject and any of 654-314 (prior to 2005), 654-324, 208-325.

25 points selected from 654-203, 654-202, 208-202, 208-207, 536-201, 536-202, 536-211, 536-233, 516-201, 516-207, 521-213, 536-250. Equivalent subjects may be accepted with the permission of the coordinator.

This subject aims to give students of science and biomedical science a solid foundation in reproductive biology and its applications. By the completion of this subject students should:

• understand the modern experimental approaches of reproductive physiology and assisted reproductive techniques;

• understand and be able to apply selected methods used in reproductive physiology, including surgery;

• understand the structure and function of male and female reproductive systems; and

• understand neuroendocrine and endocrine control systems and their role in the regulation of reproductive processes.

Topics will include structure, function, and development of the reproductive organs; endocrine and neuroendocrine and environmental control of reproduction, fertilisation, pregnancy, parturition and lactation in vertebrates; and human intervention in the reproductive process.

This subject builds upon existing generic skills, including an ability to approach and assimilate new knowledge from observation and the literature, and an ability to use that knowledge to evaluate and communicate results. Students should acquire the basic skills required to make and record scientific observations, and evaluate data in an objective manner as part of practical class report writing. They will be encouraged to access information from the primary scientific literature, through both electronic and traditional sources, and to develop the skills needed to produce scientific reports that are succinct, clear and completed on time. They should develop their abilities to evaluate scientific evidence critically, to formulate hypotheses, and be alert to alternative explanations. Students should also improve their skills in dissection and gain first-hand experience in the use of experimental animal surgery.

A critical review of published journal articles totalling up to 1000 words and a group oral presentation due during the semester (15%); laboratory work, worksheets and up to three practical reports totalling up to 3000 words due during the semester (35%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (50%).

• M H Johnson and B J Everitt, Essential Reproduction. 5th edn, Blackwells.