Genes, Proteins and Evolution
Full course description
In this course, students will be introduced to the anatomy and function of the eukaryotic cell. The course will further focus on the structure, function, and dynamics of several key molecules, including DNA, RNA, and proteins, as well as their interrelations and interactions. An important aspect of this is how environmental factors affect gene expression and hence cell functioning and thus, ultimately, behaviour. In this way, the course provides an important perspective on links between cell biology and psychology (behaviour). In addition, the topic of epigenetics will be related to the concepts of genetics and genomics. Furthermore, the course will introduce students to the key principles of evolution, such as random mutation and non-random selection, inheritance, and the relation between phenotype and genotype. This gives students a basic understanding not only of how biological but also psychological/cognitive traits of an individual may emerge. Some concepts of selection in evolution also foreshadow concepts of probability theory taught later in the curriculum. This course, furthermore, entails skills trainings wherein students learn basic lab skills.
The final assessment for this course is a numerical grade between 0,0 and 10,0.
Course objectives
- Describe and explain the anatomy of eukaryotic cells.
- Understand the structure, function and dynamics of DNA and DNA replication.
- Understand the structure, function and dynamics of genes and proteins.
- Describe the processes involved in translating genetic information into proteins
- Understand the core principles and mechanisms of evolution.
- Understand the principles of genetic variation in populations and explain the relationship between genetic variation, phenotypic differences and evolution.
- Describe the role of epigenetic processes and how environmental factors affect phenotypic traits.
- Perform basic procedures in a biochemical laboratory, understand and solve problems, and report honestly about observations and possible problems with procedures or observations resulting from these procedures.
- Work together in a small group to operate equipment and perform procedures in a biochemical laboratory, while positively receiving the feedback from the supervisor (and from peers).
- Reflect on strengths and weaknesses based on your practical experience in the biochemical lab, and to identify interests and learning goals.
- M. Gerards