MCB2023S - Functional Genetics

24 credits at NQF level 6

Entry Requirements:

MCB2020F and MCB2021F (or a minimum final mark of 45% (supplementary) for these courses)

Course Outline:

The course lays the foundation for the major in genetics, and shows how the tools of classical and molecular genetics can be applied to understanding the regulation of gene expression, cell differentiation and patterning in bacteria and eukaryotes. Concepts covered include gene mapping, forward and reverse genetics; microbial genetics, including regulation of the lac operon; CRISPR/ Cas9 gene editing and DNA repair; alternative splicing and sex-determination; epigenetic mechanisms used in dosage compensation; the genetic analysis of cell cycle regulation; stem cell technology and axis determination in Drosophila.