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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2012 - 2013

Module Title Comparative Genomics & Developmental Biology
Module Code BE310
School School of Biotechnology

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorDr Mary O'ConnellOffice NumberX215
NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description

This module will introduce students to the field of comparative genomics and its many applications and to the field of developmental biology.

Learning Outcomes

1. Discuss the basic concepts of comparative genomics and developmental biology from both a computational and cellular perspective
2. Describe the process of analysing biological sequence data from databases to statistical methods for analysing/assessing data signal
3. Discuss concepts in molecular evolution
4. Solve problems of gene expression using microArray data and statistical and clustering techniques
5. Discuss the process of cell fate, determination, and specification
6. Illustrate pattern formation



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture36No Description
Independent Study89reading of recommended book chapters and publications recommended to you by your lecturer (these may change year on year)
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Indicative Syllabus
Introduction to Comparative Genomics, key concepts including homology, orthology and paralogy. Major comparative genomic methods will be dealt with in detail, including Pairwise and multiple alignment methodologies, Probability and Statistical Analysis of Sequence alignments, Databases and mining, Phylogeny reconstruction and problem solving, MicroArray Analysis statistics and clustering methodologies. A brief history of developmental biology. Early key experiments and milestones. Introduction of model organisms such as Xenopus, zebrafish, chick,mouse, Drosophila andC. elegans. Basic stages of development:comparison of model organisms. Focus on Drosophila lifecycle and development. Drosophila developmental genetics- establishmentof body plan: anterior-posterior axis, dorsal-ventral axis.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment0% Examination Weight100%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
Unavailable
Indicative Reading List

  • Campbell and Heyer: 0, Genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics, 2,
  • Higgs and Attwood: 0, Bioinformatics and Molecular Evolution,
  • Scott F. Gilbert: 0, Developmental biology, 7,
  • Lewis Wolpert: 0, Principles of Development, 3,
  • J.M.W. Slack: 0, Essential Delevopmental Biology, 2,
Other Resources

None
Programme or List of Programmes
BSSAStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
BSSAOStudy Abroad (DCU Business School)
ECSAStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
ECSAOStudy Abroad (Engineering & Computing)
GCBBSc in Genetics & Cell Biology
HMSAStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
HMSAOStudy Abroad (Humanities & Soc Science)
SHSAStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
SHSAOStudy Abroad (Science & Health)
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