GMS 6015: Human Genetics II 2011

Catalog Description: This course will investigate advanced topics of human genetics, emphasizing novel genetic mechanisms and applications to medicine. Prerequisites: GMS 6001 and GMS 6012; or equivalent genetics/molecular biology knowledge, with consent of course director (Dr. Margaret Wallace).

Expanded description and explanation: This course will discuss current topics in human genetics, to complement GMS 6012 (Human Genetics I). The format will be lecture/literature discussions of novel genetic situations, mechanisms, and research tools in human genetics. The course will employ study of specific human disorders to illustrate the concepts (e.g. association studies in complex traits, epigenetic phenomena, molecular pathogenesis, therapies/diagnostics based on genetic advances, social issues, etc). In past years, as examples, topics have included centrosome disorders, issues in mitochondrial diseases, neuromuscular diseases and mechanisms, cancer genetics (e.g. Wilms’ tumor), imprinting disorders, assisted reproductive technologies, RNA editing in genetic disease, pharmacogenetic applications).

Evaluation of student performance: Students are evaluated based on their attendance and participation in class discussions/presentations. Students will give a short (5-10 min) informal powerpoint presentation on their own research toward the beginning of the course (e.g. 2nd or 3rd day), to introduce themselves. Each student will also present one 30-45 minute powerpoint talk about a current human genetics topic of their choice (approved by Dr. Wallace). Students in the audience must participate by asking questions/contributing to discussion during or after the talk. Attendance is mandatory, and the course only meets 10 times, so students must get pre-approval from Dr. Wallace for any absences.

Faculty: Dr. Margaret Wallace is the course director. She may be assisted by other faculty from the UF Health Science Center whom are experts in the areas under study. Assigned readings: Topics to be covered will be chosen at the beginning of the course, with input from faculty and students. The major reference for basic concepts is the textbook "Human Molecular Genetics", by Strachan and Read, 3rd or 4th ed. (Wiley-Liss), but it is not required. Each presenter will provide the rest of the class with a list of pertinent references for the topic he/she is presenting.

Subsequent semesters: Repeat of this course will only be allowed by consent of instructor, avoiding overlap with previous years’ content.