GeneExpression
Gene Expression - Course Information
GSND 5113Q
Instructors:Emanuel Goldman, PhD (egoldman@njms.rutgers.edu , 973-972-4367)
Lecture time:Mondays 2:20-5:00 PM, and Thursdays 2:20-5:00 PM, April 30 - June 29
Lecture room:ICPH Auditorium (225 Warren Street)
Prerequisites: None
Grade mode: Normal
Credits: 3
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The mechanism by which genetic information is expressed will be taught. Both bacterial and eukaryotic gene expression will be covered. Topics will include description of molecular components involved in gene expression (RNA polymerases, messenger RNA, transfer RNA, ribosomes), how the genetic code functions, and processes and regulatory features of transcription and translation. Some basic bacterial genetics will be reviewed (to provide background in understanding how regulatory features were discovered), as well as some classic historical experiments. Gene regulation in some bacterial pathogens and in some human viral pathogens will be described. A detailed syllabus will be provided to all students, as well as recommended chapters in textbooks and/or review articles. Evaluation will be by two examinations, one in the mid term, and one at the end.
Outline of class sessions
Apr 30: Session 1. Overview of gene expression; operation of the genetic code; how mutations affect reading the genetic code
May 04: Session 2. Transfer RNA and aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases
May 07: Session 3. Ribosomes and the mechanism of protein synthesis
May 11: Session 4. Introduction to bacteria, phage, and bacterial genetics
May 14: Session 5. Selected classic historical experiments on the establishment and function of the
genetic code
May 18: Session 6. Nonsense suppression, incorporation of non-natural amino acids, and fidelity of
translation in bacteria
May 21: Session 7. Review and Problem-Solving 1
May 28: Examination 1 (2:00 - 5:00 PM)
Jun 01: Session 8. Prokaryotic transcription 1: Operons; Epigenetic regulation; Plasmid maintenance ("addiction") systems; T7 expression systems
Jun 04: Session 9. Prokaryotic transcription 2: Regulons; Attenuation of transcription
Jun 08: Session 10. Eukaryotic transcription
Jun 11: Session 11. Eukaryotic post-transcriptional and translational control
Jun 15: Session 12. Translational regulation by RNA and Proteins
Jun 18: Session 13. Gene regulation in selected bacterial and viral pathogens
Jun 22: Session 14. Review and Problem-Solving 2
Jun 29: Examination 2 (2:00-5:00 PM) (Note: students with an exam conflict may take exam 2 on 6/25)