Neurogenetics

In this course we will examine how genetic analysis can be used to probe the structure and function of nervous systems. Instead of focusing broadly across many fields in neuroscience, as a class we will select a few topics and delve deeply into understanding the controversies and technological advances associated with a particular topic in neurogenetics. We will examine the strengths and limitations of different types of genetic analyses as they are applied to studying neurobiology such as gene knock-outs, CRISPR genome editing, RNA interference, genetic mutant screens, and genome-wide association studies. Class time will primarily be spent discussing the primary literature. A final project will consist of research grant proposal similar to one that would be submitted to the National Institutes of Health or National Science Foundation by a professional scientist. (BIOL 0314 or waiver. Open to juniors and seniors only.) 3 hrs. lect./disc