Abstract
This subject will introduce students to the critical aspects of biotechnology in agriculture. Students will learn the key principles behind the fundamental biochemical processes and their underlying genetic basis. The application of these skills is essential in all aspects of food production, and is of increasing importance for nutritional security.
Syllabus
This subject will cover the following topics:
Structure and function of major macromolecules;Enzyme function;Mendelian genetics and regulation of metabolic pathways;Major metabolic pathways such as glycolysis (aerobic and anaerobic), fatty acid metabolism and amino acid metabolism;Linkage and chromosome mapping;Qualitative genetics; andConventional and molecular approaches to plant and animal breeding, including regulation … For more content click the Read More button below.
Assessment items
1. Biochemistry Essay Topics
2. Plant Secondary Metabolites
3. DNA Structure and Inheritance
4. Genetics Essay Topics
Learning outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
1.
describe the structure and function of the four major classes of biological macromolecules and apply this knowledge to describe the properties of enzymes and cofactors in biological systems;
2.
apply the principles and extensions of Mendelian genetics to agricultural production systems, and describe the link between genotype and phenotype;
3.
relate the implications of genetic change to improvements in agricultural production, particularly regarding conventional and molecular breeding; and
4.
outline the social and regulatory issues relating to recombinant DNA technology in an agricultural context.
Assumed knowledge
First year chemistry (equivalent to CHM108 or CHM104+CHM107) and plant/microbial biology (as covered in MCR101 or BIO100 or AGR130).