GEN3051 - Medical and forensic genetics

Leader(s): Dr Richard Burke

Offered

Clayton First semester 2009 (Day)

Synopsis

The study of genetics and its applications to medicine and forensic biology including genetic disorders, genetic screening and DNA profiling. Topics include cytogenetics, immunogenetics, genetic counselling and gene therapy. The impact and ethics of recent genetic advances on both the individual and society will be discussed. The unit will focus on current techniques in DNA testing both in medical diagnosis and forensic biology. Practical sessions will involve an analysis of human chromosomes and aspects of genetic counselling.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students will: obtain an understanding of modern genetics as it relates to fields of medicine and forensic biology, understand the techniques involved in modern genetics and their applications to medical genetics and forensic biology, gain an insight into the principles underlying genetic disorders and the range of genetic disorders that affect humans, understand the impact of the human genome project on medical genetics and forensic biology, appreciate the ethical issues affecting both the individual and society raised by advances in human genetics, acquire skills in the analysis and presentation of data and scientific ideas in written form and oral presentations, to further develop generic skills in problem solving and lateral thinking, be able to critically analyse scientific papers in the field of medical genetics

Assessment

Examination (3 hours): 50%
Practical work: 30%
Syndicated sessions: 10%
Oral presentation: 10%

Contact hours

2-hours lectures and 3-hours practical session per week

Prerequisites

12 points from GEN2041, GEN2052, MOL2011, MOL2022, BMS2021, BMS2042 + Recommended: GEN2052 or BMS2042