Aims

To develop knowledge and understanding of the mechanisms by which eukaryotes regulate gene expression through control of transcription, chromatin, mRNA stability and translation.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module introduces the basics of gene structure and transcription in eukaryotes, the role of, promoters, polymerases, and transcription factors and the regulation of their interaction with DNA. The structure of chromatin will be covered, and the key role played by chromatin modifying enzymes in the regulation of transcription will be discussed. The mechanisms by which the activity of key human transcription factors is controlled in response to stress and infection will also be covered. The lectures provide an introduction to mRNA splicing and will also describe how regulation of mRNA stability can contribute to control of gene expression in eukaryotes. Because ultimately proteins are usually the final gene product, it is not surprising that translation, the last step in protein synthesis, is under precise cellular control. The lectures will therefore describe eukaryotic translation and the mechanisms by which it is regulated

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures are used to impart information in a concise manner, to highlight areas of importance (K1, K2, K4-K10) and to integrate with directed reading and self-directed study.

Synchronous online sessions are used for developing skills of data interpretation (K3, S1) and problem solving. Private study is used for self-directed learning including further reading (S2) and preparation for the formative in course exercise and for examinations.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The final examination tests knowledge, understanding and the ability to interpret data. The formative exercise will help students to assess their knowledge and understanding of the course materials and familiarise them with data interpretation questions.