• Semester 2 (Day)

Pre-requisite: 62219

Co-requisite: 62215

Synopsis

Biology  is today in the midst of a revolution as a result  of  recent
research  into  the molecular basis of life. An understanding  of  the
theory  and techniques of molecular biology are now becoming essential
to  many  diverse  areas  of  study in  biology:  from  the  study  of
biodiversity and evolutionary relationships to genetic engineering  of
microbes,  plants and animals. This unit is for students  who  have  a
background in cell biology. Drawing on this knowledge base,  the  unit
addresses  the nature of gene organisation, replication and expression
in  both  prokaryotic  and eukaryotic systems. Practicals  involve  an
introduction  to  techniques required for  the  isolation,  study  and
manipulation  of genes. Potential applications of recombinant  DNA  in
biotechnology and medicine are also discussed.