Academic Calendar 2023/2024 - Developmental & Behavioural Genetics

BIOL 4557  Developmental & Behavioural Genetics

Prerequisites:

BIOL 1006 and BIOL 1007

Hours:

Three hours of lecture per week for one term.

Credits:

3

Description:

This course focuses on the genetics and molecular biology of development and behaviour in higher organisms. We will examine the molecular processes by which genes govern the development of a complex, multi-cellular organism from a single-cell zygote, considering such topics as morphogenesis, pattern formation, cellular differentiation, cell communication, establishment of neural networks, and neural plasticity. Insight will be drawn from studies of model organisms such as C. elegans, Drosophila, Arabidopsis, the zebrafish, and the mouse. We will also consider the molecular basis of behaviour, beginning with simple, well-defined paradigms such as locomotion and olfaction, and expanding the scope to discuss the possible role of genes in complex human traits such as intelligence, learning and memory, and social and sexual behaviour. Students will be encouraged to consider the ethical implications of research in such areas. This course may be credited towards Psychology.