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BI 122 -- Intro Human Genetics

Expanded course description

Introduction to Human Genetics investigates inherited traits in humans and other topics in human genetics and human medicine of current interest. The class is composed of lectures and discussion groups. Students will study genetic variation in humans at the level of the gene, proteins made by genes, cells that utilize those proteins, individuals, and populations of individuals. Topics of human health that have ethical implications will be emphasized. Why are some genetic diseases more prevalent in some parts of the world? How has the study of human genetics challenged the notion that people can be categorized into racial groups? What are embryonic stem cells, how are they made, and how can they impact human health? Why might one want to use cells from umbilical cord blood to heal a sick sibling? How might someone screen embryos fertilized in a test tube to choose a child that would be most useful for providing treatments for a sibling with a genetic disease? How can DNA be analyzed to determine paternity, or implicate a person in a crime? What dangers might be associated with insurance companies obtaining knowledge of the genetic predisposition of individuals to have various diseases? How is genetic research in model organism relevant to human health, and how does one balance concern with animal rights with the desire for medical advances in human health?

The course assumes no previous knowledge of biology or chemistry but will introduce basic concepts relevant to human genetics. Introductory information on genetics, and on the analysis and manipulation of DNA will be provided. These methods and techniques discussed will include an understanding of Mendelian and population genetics, the isolation and manipulation of DNA samples using genomic DNA preparations. The use of sub-cloning of DNA into plasmid vectors, the polymerase chain reaction to amplify DNA sequences, and DNA micro-arrays to analyze gene expression and genetic variation will be covered. Methods for introducing altered DNA into living cells and organisms to generate transgenic plants and animals, the uses of transgenic animals and plants, and ethical considerations of generating transgenic animals will be discussed.

Group: SCI

Offered 200604.

Syllabus

Although syllabi can change from term to term, a syllabus may provide further information about typical instances of this course.

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