- Genes and Development

Institution:

The Evergreen State College

Subject:

Description:

Faculty: Donald Morisato (biology) Major areas of study include genetics, developmental biology and molecular biology. Upper-division science credit will be awarded. Class Standing: Juniors or seniors; transfer students welcome. Prerequisites: Successful completion of Molecule to Organism or equivalent (introductory genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry and cell biology). The union of a sperm and egg initiates the process of development in which a single cell¡ªthe fertilized egg¡ªeventually produces hundreds of different cell types that form distinctive tissues and organs. If the developmental program is encoded in the genome, how are the key regulatory genes expressed in the right place and at the right time, and what do these genes do Genetics provides a powerful approach for studying complex biological pathways. By analyzing mutations that result in developmental defects, geneticists can learn not only how normal genes control cell growth and cell communication, but gain insights into the logic of how an organism establishes its major body axes and achieves spatial patterning. This advanced program will provide an overview of the genetic strategies used to study questions in developmental biology. How do we make and isolate mutations that affect a complex process How do we analyze the order and location of gene action in developmental pathways How do we identify the gene that corresponds to a mutant phenotype, and begin to analyze its function at the molecular level We will focus on several model organisms, including the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. We will also consider how the method of RNA interference, together with advances in genomics, allows us to carry out functional studies in organisms that are not amenable to classical genetic analysis. A key aim of this program will be the analysis of experimental design and logic. Emphasis will be placed on reading and interpreting primary research papers, in both seminar discussions and written critiques. There will be a significant laboratory component applying contemporary genetic and molecular biological techniques to the study of development. Total: 16 credits. Enrollment: 25 Program is preparatory for careers and future studies in biology and medicine.

Credits:

16.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

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Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

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Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.evergreen.edu

Phone Number:

(360) 867-6170

Regional Accreditation:

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Calendar System:

Quarter

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