Molecular genetics and evolution, basic course

This is the second course within four basic courses in Biology / Molecular Biology comprising 60 credits. The course starts with molecular genetics (10 credits) that treat genes and their role in heredity. We describe the molecular mechanisms for how the genetic information is stored and decoded and passed on from one generation to the next. The structure and regulation of genes and genomes, as well as how genetic changes can affect developmental biology and disease origin, will be discussed. Basic molecular evolution at the genome level is also included. The course also addresses ethical aspects of genetic diagnostics and human change The second sub-course (5 credits) focuses on evolutionary processes and their consequences, including species formation. The course thus illustrates how natural selection and genetic drift, in conjunction with ecological factors, affect dynamics, genetic composition and variation, life history and behavior in natural populations.