2007-2008 University of Guelph Undergraduate Calendar

XII. Course Descriptions

Molecular Biology and Genetics

Department of Animal and Poultry Science

Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology

Department of Plant Agriculture

Department of Integrative Biology

MBG*1000 Genetics and Society F,W (3-1) [0.50]
Basic principles of genetics at work in human society. The roles of genes and inheritance in the biology of humans and the organisms with which we interact. Introduction to some of the social and ethical consequences of genetic knowledge and practice. This is a science course designed primarily for students in the Arts or Social and Applied Human Sciences.Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Restriction(s): Not available to students registered in B.Sc. programs.
MBG*2000 Introductory Genetics S,F,W (3-1) [0.50]
Fundamental aspects of genetics including the chromosomal basis of inheritance, cytogenetics, genes in populations and quantitative traits will be introduced. Additional topics include extranuclear inheritance, human genetics and bacterial genetics. The molecular nature of the gene and general mechanisms of gene and general mechanisms of gene expression will be introduced but not covered in detail. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): 4 credits including BIOL*1040
MBG*2020 Introductory Molecular Biology F,W (3-1) [0.50]
This course provides an introduction to the structure of the gene and the relationship between genes and proteins with an in depth discussion of the processes of replication, transcription, translation, regulation of gene expression, mutation and DNA repair and recombination. The experimental techniques used in molecular cloning and their applications to the biotechnology industry and the study of diseases will be discussed. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): BIOC*2580, MBG*2000
MBG*3000 Population Genetics F (3-2) [0.50]
This course is designed to explore the concepts of random mating, inbreeding, random drift, assortative mating and selection as they relate to natural populations. The dynamic genetic structure of populations and its relationship to the process of speciation is examined. The role and significance of molecular genetics as it relates to population genetics, evolution, systematics and phylogeny is also considered. Department of Integrative Biology.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2000
MBG*3050 Human Genetics W (3-3) [0.50]
A course designed to introduce the student to the study of biological inheritance in humans. The course includes discussion of the genetic basis of human individual differences, gene frequencies in human populations, human behavioral genetics, human cytogenetics, biochemical genetics and developmental genetics, medical genetics and other aspects of human heredity. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
MBG*3060 Quantitative Genetics W (3-2) [0.50]
The nature of Mendelian inheritance when extended to quantitative traits that are jointly influenced by the environment and the simultaneous segregation of many genes. Prediction of response to natural and artificial selection in populations. Department of Animal and Poultry Science.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2000, 0.50 credits in statistics
MBG*3080 Bacterial Genetics S,F (3-0) [0.50]
This course focuses on the genetics of prokaryotic microorganisms and their viruses. Some major topics covered are: regulation of gene expression, analysis of bacterial and phage genomes, plasmids, transposable elements, and mutation studies. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020, (MICR*2020 or MICR*2030)
Restriction(s): MBG*3070
MBG*3090 Applied Animal Genetics F (3-2) [0.50]
The basis of, and methods for, effective use of modern animal breeding tools for practical improvement of livestock species. The course involves an examination and comparison of the structure of genetic improvement programs across species. International aspects and challenges to animal breeding programs are considered. Department of Animal and Poultry Science.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2000, 0.50 credits in statistics
MBG*3100 Plant Genetics F (3-2) [0.50]
Reproduction in plants, genetic and cytogenetic structure of plants, nature of phenotypic variability in plants, patterns of response to selection in plant populations, measurement of continuous and discontinuous genetic variability in plant populations. Department of Plant Agriculture.
Prerequisite(s): (MBG*2000 or AGR*2451/2 for B.Sc.(Agr.) students only), STAT*2040
MBG*3200 Genetics: Our Uncertain Heritage F (3-0) [0.50]
An examination of the ethical, social, and political issues arising from genetic manipulation, reproductive intervention and biotechnology through the joint application of principles of modern genetics and moral philosophy. Topics include eugenics, cloning, surrogate parenting, abortion, gene therapy, DNA fingerprinting and genetic diagnosis. Related issues such as scientific freedom, access to genetic information and public policy are also considered. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2000
MBG*3350 Laboratory Methods in Molecular Biology I F,W (0-8) [0.75]
Laboratory based instruction in the basic methodologies of Molecular Biology. Students will have the opportunity to develop technical skills and practical knowledge sufficient to perform basic procedures independently, and to diagnose and analyze experimental results obtained with these techniques. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): BIOC*2580, MBG*2020
Restriction(s): Registration in the B.Sc. Major in Molecular Biology and Genetics, Biochemistry, Biochemistry (Co-op), Biomedical Toxicology, Biomedical Toxicology (Co-op) or instructor consent.
MBG*3360 Laboratory Methods in Molecular Biology II W (0-8) [0.75]
Laboratory based instruction in the basic methodologies of Molecular Biology. Students will have the opportunity to develop technical skills and practical knowledge sufficient to perform advanced agendas independently, and to diagnose and analyze experimental results obtained with these techniques. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): 70% in MBG*2020 and 75% in MBG*3350
MBG*3600 Introduction to Genomics S,F (1.5-0) [0.25]
Genomics is the analysis of the structures and functions of entire genomes, whose nucleotide sequences are now known in part or in entirety for many different organisms. This computer-based course will provide an introduction to the methology and applicability of this new discipline. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. (Offered through distance education format only.)
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
MBG*4030 Animal Breeding Methods F (3-2) [0.50]
Theoretical and scientific aspects of practical animal breeding programs which lead to genetic improvement of efficiency and profitability of animal production. Integrates quantitative genetics with concepts of statistics, economics, biology and biotechnology and expands into development of practical breeding plans. Department of Animal and Poultry Science.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*3060
MBG*4040 Genetics and Molecular Biology of Development F (3-2) [0.50]
An examination of the genetic mechanisms which specify organismic development. Molecular biology of determination and cell differentiation, homeotic genes, oncogenes, genetic control of morphogenesis and pattern formation. Application of embryo manipulation techniques in basic science and medicine. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. (Offered in odd-numbered years.)
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
Restriction(s): MBG*4070
MBG*4070 Genetics and Molecular Biology of Development F (3-0) [0.50]
Lecture portion only of MBG*4040. (Offered in odd-numbered years.)
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
Restriction(s): MBG*4040
MBG*4080 Molecular Genetics F (3-0) [0.50]
The chemical nature of genetic material, transcription and the control of gene expression. DNA cloning and the use of recombinant DNA molecules in modifying gene expression. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
MBG*4110 Advanced Concepts in Genetics F (3-0) [0.50]
This course presents classical non-Mendelian phenomena, including analysis of chromosome breakage, transposition, imprinting and paramutation. Modern advances in gene regulation via epigenetic phenomena will be a central theme, focusing on chromatic remodeling, gene silencing and RNA interference as they pertain to organism development, with an emphasis on plants. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. (Offered in even-numbered years.)
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
Equate(s): MBG*4200
MBG*4160 Plant Breeding W (3-2) [0.50]
Application of genetic principles to plant improvement. Topics include breeding objectives, mating systems, selection, testing and germplasm maintenance of horticultural and crop plants. Department of Plant Agriculture.
Prerequisite(s): [MBG*2000 or (MBG*3100, AGR*2451/2 (for B.Sc.(Agr.) students only)], STAT*2040
MBG*4240 Applied Molecular Genetics W (3-0) [0.50]
Molecular and cellular aspects of biotechnology. In vitro manipulations of animal and plant cells. Genetic engineering in eukaryotes and development of transgenic organisms. Methods of gene therapy and molecular biology of cancer and its treatment. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
MBG*4270 DNA Replication, Recombination and Repair W (3-0) [0.50]
This course will examine the DNA transactions that determine the structure of the function of the genome, with an emphasis on natural and synthetic mutagens and their mode of action, replication and recombination of genetic material, recognition and repair of DNA damage, developmentally-regulated changes in gene structure, inherited and somatic genetic diseases arising from abnormal DNA metabolism, and DNA sequence changes and chromosome alterations in evolution. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology. (Offered in odd-numbered years.)
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
MBG*4300 Plant Molecular Genetics W (3-0) [0.50]
Molecular genetics of plants. Topics include: plant genome diversity and synteny; Arabidopsis thaliana genome, hormonal, environmental and developmental regulation of gene expression; chloroplast and mitochondrial genomes; and gene expression and silencing in transgenics. The course will be delivered using a lecture and paper discussion format. Students will learn and use a variety of computer techniques to search and analyze plant genome databases.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*2020
MBG*4500 Research Project in Molecular Biology and Genetics I S,F,W (0-12) [1.00]
Independent theoretical and laboratory research on a topic in the discipline under the supervision of individual faculty. Students must make arrangements with both a faculty supervisor and the course coordinator prior to preregistration.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*3350
Restriction(s): Registration in semester 7 or 8 of the B.Sc. program, Molecular Biology and Genetics major. Instructor consent required.
MBG*4510 Research Project in Molecular Biology and Genetics II S,F,W (0-12) [1.00]
Independent theoretical and laboratory research on a topic in the discipline under the supervision of individual faculty. Students must make arrangements with both a faculty supervisor and the course coordinator prior to preregistration.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*4500
Restriction(s): Registration in semester 7 or 8 of the B.Sc. program, Molecular Biology and Genetics major. Instructor consent required.
MBG*4600 Topics in Molecular Biology and Genetics S,F,W (1-3) [0.50]
Independent study of a current topic in Molecular Biology and Genetics, selected from the recent research literature and involving a review and critical appraisal of underlying experimental principles. The course comprises independent library research, participation in weekly meetings, and written and oral presentations. Students must make arrangements with both faculty supervisor and the course coordinator in a prior course selection period. Open to students in semesters 6, 7, and 8 of the B.Sc. Major in Molecular Biology and Genetics. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.
Prerequisite(s): MBG*3350
Restriction(s): MBG*4500, MBG*4510, MICR*4240. Instructor consent required.