Introduction to the foundational principles and applications of biotechnology, emphasizing the molecular mechanisms that underpin genetic engineering. Covers fundamental concepts in genetics that include classical and modern principles of heredity. meiosis and transmission genetics; molecular genetics and gene expression. Covers concepts in cell and molecular biology, applying these to modern biotechnological techniques such as gene cloning, genetic transformation, and genome editing. Examines ethical considerations, biosafety, and the societal impact of biotechnology. Through lectures, discussions, and projects, students will gain a foundational understanding of biotechnology and its influence on medical, agricultural, environmental, and industrial fields. Satisfies Volunteer Core Requirement: (EI)
Recommended Background: Introductory biology course with lab (e.g., BIOL 101, BIOL 113, BIOL 160 or similar)

Genetic principles and techniques used in plant modification. Principles of molecular and transmission genetics as applied to plant biotechnology and plant improvement. Credit Restriction: Students may not receive credit for both PLSC 452 and PLSC 552.
(RE) Prerequisite(s) : BIOL 113 or BIOL 114 or consent of instructor.

Lectures will discuss recombinant DNA technology, molecular assisted breeding of economically important crops, gene cloning and transformation technologies. Examples will be given of food and ornamental crops, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy sources produced using biotechnology, as well as potential risks of this technology. Labs will include electrophoresis, tissue culture, plasmid preps, genomic DNA preps, PCR, plant transformation, and genomic techniques.

Contact Hour Distribution: 1 hour lecture and one 3-hour lab. Credit Restriction: Students may not receive credit for both PLSC 454 and PLSC 554.
(RE) Prerequisite(s) : BIOL 113 or BIOL 114 or BIOL 240 or consent of instructor.

Presentations and discussion of topics.

Repeatability: May be repeated. Maximum 6 hours.

Other Instructors: Wayman, Clint

General principles and techniques used in plant modification. Principles of molecular and transmission genetics as applied to plant biotechnology and plant improvement. Credit Restriction: Student may not receive credit for both 452 and 552.
Registration Restriction(s): Minimum student level – graduate.

Lectures will discuss recombinant DNA technology, molecular assisted breeding of economically important crops, gene cloning and transformation technologies. Examples will be given of food and ornamental crops, pharmaceuticals, and renewable energy sources produced using biotechnology as well as potential risks of this technology. Labs will include electrophoresis, tissue culture, plasmid preps, genomic DNA preps, PCR, plant transformation, genomic techniques.

Contact Hour Distribution: 1-hour lecture and one 3-hour lab. Credit Restriction: Students cannot receive credit for both 454 and 554.
Recommended Background: 353 or Biology 240.
Registration Restriction(s): Minimum student level – graduate.