Unit 3014: Comprehensive Genetics

1. Introduction to Genetics

• Overview of genetics and its significance
• Structure and function of DNA
  • Nucleotides and double helix
• Genes, alleles, and chromosomes
  • Definition and relationships
  • Chromosomal organization

2. Mendelian Genetics

• Gregor Mendel’s contributions
• Principles of inheritance
  • Law of Segregation
  • Law of Independent Assortment
• Punnett squares and genetic cross predictions
• Dominant vs. recessive alleles
• Genotype vs. phenotype distinctions

3. Non-Mendelian Genetics

• Codominance
• Incomplete dominance
• Sex-linked traits
  • X-linked and Y-linked inheritance
• Polygenic inheritance
  • Traits influenced by multiple genes

4. Genetic Mutations

• Definition and classification
  • Point mutations
  • Insertions and deletions
  • Frameshift mutations
• Effects on gene expression and protein function
• Mutagenic agents and mutation rates

5. Human Genetic Disorders

• Overview of genetic disorders
• Cystic fibrosis
  • Genetic cause and inheritance pattern
• Sickle cell anemia
• Huntington’s disease
• Down syndrome
  • Chromosomal abnormalities
• Diagnosis and genetic counseling

6. Population Genetics

• Genetic variation in populations
• Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
• Genetic drift
• Gene flow
• Natural selection and adaptation

7. Genomics and Personalized Medicine

• Introduction to genomics
• Genome sequencing technologies
• Gene editing technologies
  • CRISPR-Cas9
• Applications in personalized medicine
  • Pharmacogenomics
  • Disease risk prediction

8. Epigenetics

• Definition and mechanisms
• DNA methylation
• Histone acetylation
• Environmental influences on gene expression
• Epigenetics in development and disease

9. Ethical and Social Implications of Genetics

• Genetic testing and privacy
• Ethical considerations in gene editing
• Genetic discrimination and legislation
• Societal impact of genetic knowledge
• Discussion of case studies and current debates