Genome Rearrangements/Mammalian Transgensis and Genome Engineering (U00552)

? Credit Points : 10 ? SCQF Level : 10 ? Acronym : BIO-4-MBgen/eng

Genome Rearrangements: Genomes are not fixed in time and space; they combine the stability required for inheritance and the flexibility required for change. Systems exist to ensure that genomes are rearranged between generations and this results in genetic diversity between the individuals of a species. Genetic recombination does not only occur between generations; an individual's genome is also subject to rearrangement. This can regulate gene expression, generate genetic diversity between the cells in a single individual or repair DNA damage. While developing an understanding of the details of recombination reactions, we explore the interactions between homologous, transpositional and illegitimate systems. The course concentrates on mechanism and explores the similarities and differences in genetic requirements and chemistry between V(D)J recombination, transposition, non-homologous end-joining and hairpin processing in homologous recombination. Students are also encouraged to extend their analysis to the less well understood reactions of class-switching.

Mammalian Transgenesis and Genome Engineering: This Elective Course will provide a greater in-depth knowledge of the technologies presented in the Core Course for introducing genetically engineered modifications into the germ line of mammals. In particular there will be emphasis on discussing recent innovations in the following areas: chromosome engineering; transfer of human and artificial chromosomes into mice; BAC recombineering and transgenesis; conditional gene expression strategies; optimisation and genetic modification of somatic cells for transgenesis by nuclear transfer; and applications of these to functional genomics analysis, biomedical research and biotechnology.