BIO-206 :Concepts of Genetics

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This undergraduate course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of genetics. Students will explore the molecular and cellular basis of heredity, from the structure and function of DNA and chromosomes to the mechanisms of gene transmission, expression, and regulation. Key topics include Mendelian genetics, chromosomal inheritance, molecular genetics, gene expression and regulation, genetic engineering and biotechnology, population genetics, and the human genome. The course emphasizes both classical and modern genetics, integrating conceptual understanding with problem-solving skills. Students will examine how genetic principles apply to medicine, agriculture, and evolution, and will be introduced to emerging technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9. Through a combination of readings, video lectures, and written assignments, students will develop a solid foundation in genetic concepts and their real-world applications.

COURSE TEACHING OBJECTIVES

1. Analyze the structure and function of DNA, genes, and chromosomes and their roles in heredity.

2. Apply Mendelian principles of inheritance to predict and analyze genetic crosses and patterns of inheritance.

3. Examine the molecular mechanisms of gene expression, including transcription, translation, and gene regulation.

4. Evaluate the principles and applications of genetic engineering, biotechnology, and emerging genomic technologies.

5. Critically assess population genetics concepts, including Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, evolutionary forces, and genetic variation.

6. Integrate genetic principles with real-world applications in medicine, agriculture, and conservation biology.

COURSE STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Explain the molecular structure of DNA, the process of DNA replication, and the organization of genes and chromosomes.

2. Predict the outcomes of monohybrid, dihybrid, and test crosses using Mendelian principles and probability.

3. Describe the processes of transcription and translation and explain how gene expression is regulated in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.

4. Analyze the principles of gene linkage, recombination, and chromosomal mapping.

5. Evaluate the applications of genetic engineering, including gene cloning, CRISPR, and genomic analysis.

6. Calculate allele and genotype frequencies and apply the Hardy-Weinberg principle to analyze population genetics.

7. Critically assess ethical and societal implications of genetic technologies and research.

ORGANIZATION OF COURSE STUDIES

The course is organized into five study periods (typically 2 weeks each, though self-paced). Each period includes intensive reading of the assigned textbook, viewing of the supplementary video, and a short response paper or reflective assignment (500–1,000 words) reflecting on the material and its application. Students must contact the instructor for feedback after each period.