Genetic Variations in Humans and other Eukaryotes
Genetic variation in humans and model organisms, dynamics of chromosome organisation during mitosis and meiosis, genome instability.
Programmes
- BSc Biochemistry, BSc Medical Biochemistry, BSc Biological Sciences, BSc Human Biology
Level
Final Year
20 Credits
Genetics underpins all aspects of biology and recent developments in genomics together with novel analytical approaches are providing new insights into the molecular basis and evolution of genetic variation. This module will examine genetic variation from the chromosomeal level through to populations focusing on humans and relevant examples from model organisms.
The module will study the dynamics of chromosome organisation during mitosis and meiosis; how chromosome variation is related to ageing, cancer and genome instability and chromosome evolution. The genetic control of qualitative and complex quantitative traits such as intelligence, body weight and hypertension will be considered together with the methodologies that have been developed to identify the genes involved. You will be given tutorials and workshops to help you with this part of the module.
Assessment
Exam (65%), Coursework (35%)