GMS 6013: Development Genetics


Catalog description: The present focus of this course is to explore current problems and approaches to understanding how cells and tissues achieve differentiated status.


Prerequisites/corequisites: GMS 6001 and 6002 or consent of instructor.


Expanded description and explanation: This course will explore genetic and molecular mechanims which regulate cell proliferation and tissue differentiation during embryonic development. Identification of mechanisms that are shared among vertebrates will be emphasized. Classes will consist of student led discussions of both recent and classic papers in the field.


Evaluation of student performance: By oral and written reports.


Summary of Topics:

    1. The midblastula transition
    2. Germ cell specification
    3. Molecular correlates of totipotence in mammals
    4. Spemann’s organizer
    5. Neural specification and default state
    6. Cellular mechanisms of response to signaling molecules
    7. Nuclear reprogramming and animal cloning