Genes and Genomics
Overview
This unit is designed to provide students with the broad concepts and knowledge associated with genes and genomics. The unit will span from basic gene regulation and expression at the cellular level through to the analysis of human genomic profiles. Students will gain an understanding for how our genes can control the developmental process, health and also result in disease, with a focus being placed on genomics in health and disease. Topics to be covered include chromosomes, genetic sequencing, bioinformatics, epigenetics and emergent DNA technology for altering genes such as CRISPR.
Requisites
01-June-2025
Learning outcomes
Students who successfully complete this unit will be able to:
- Outline the location of genes in the cell and the control of gene regulation
- Explain how gene expression results in the development of an organism and also relationships to health and disease
- Determine and explain the role of genetic mechanisms in inheritance, human health and disease
- Interpret and analyse biological problems in terms of genetics and to apply bioinformatics tools to investigate disease analysis and outcomes
- Discuss the statistical implications of genetic and genomics research with a focus on human health and disease
- Communicate genetic concepts and interpretation of genomic data clearly with an understanding of the ethical issues associated with genetic knowledge
Teaching methods
Hawthorn
| Activity Type | Activity | Total Hours | Number of Weeks | Hours Per Week |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Face to Face Contact (Phasing out) | Lecture | 24 | 12 weeks | 2 |
| Face to Face Contact (Phasing out) | Tutorial | 12 | 12 weeks | 1 |
| Specified Learning Activities (Phasing out) | Various | 36 | 6 weeks | 6 |
| Unspecified Learning Activities (Phasing out) | Independent Learning | 78 | 12 weeks | 6.5 |
| Total Hours: | 150 | Total Hours (per week): | 15.5 | |
Assessment
| Type | Task | Weighting | ULO's |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assignment | Group | 25% | 3,4,5,6 |
| Assignment | Individual | 25% | 1,2,3,4,5,6 |
| Examination | Individual | 50% | 1,2,3,4,5 |
Content
- The unit will cover the basic principles of genes and inheritance including: Mendelian genetics, pedigree analysis, chromosomal structure, DNA regulation, mutation and DNA repair, mitosis
- Core techniques for the measuring and interpreting our genes including: genome sequencing and bioinformatics
- Analysis of genomes for understanding different disease states caused through inheritance
- Personalised medicine and the role of genomic information in our health-care system
- Emergent areas for controlling genes including both natural and engineered techniques such as: epigenetics and CRISPR DNA editing
Study resources
Reading materials
A list of reading materials and/or required textbooks will be available in the Unit Outline on Canvas.