Plant unit includes media preparation isolation of explants and establishment of callus from suspension cultures, growth factor bioassays, regeneration of whole plants from tissue and plant genetic engineering techniques. Introduces modern molecular biology technologies including basic recombinant DNA techniques and nucleic acid analysis and purification. Historical background is presented for an understanding of the context in which modern techniques are performed. Surveys advanced techniques in molecular biology including blotting, polymerase chain reaction, recombinant DNA, and large scale DNA purification. The course blends discussion of concepts anc urrent research with practical laboratory experience.
Students work in a biotechnology laboratory.
Emphasizes the integration of academics and practical experiences. Introduces research methods in the biological sciences, including the scientific method, literature search strategies, collection and analysis of data and scientific writing and presentation skills. With assistance from the instructors, students choose an independent research project involving such methods as protein purification and characterization and recombinant DNA technology. Regular consultations are scheduled with instructors and other area scientists as the project dictates. This course may be repeated second semester for credit.