Monash College Handbook

BIOMEDICAL BIOLOGY (MCD1620)

Purpose

This first part of this unit provides the background for, and examples of, the range of responses the human body utilises to fight diseases and how medical research is assisting with this fight.

The second section of this unit focuses on the study of genomics, the basis for understanding the mechanisms of inheritance. The role of the gene in inheritance and the use of Mendelian theory to predict the ‘passing down’ of certain traits is explored. Practical applications for advances in biotechnology and genetic engineering are introduced, supported with relevant case studies.

Prerequisites

Biology Foundations MCD1610

Learning outcomes

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. identify the differences between infectious and non-infectious diseases.
2. explain how diseases are spread and their effect on the host.
3. outline the three types of defence barriers against diseases.
4. demonstrate the structure of DNA and relate its structure to its role in the production of biomacromolecules and reproduction.
5. relate the science of proteomics to current research and technology.
6. conduct a biotechnology-based laboratory activity.
7. identify the role of, and similarities and differences between mitosis and meiosis, and the different phases of these reproductive mechanisms.
8. explain the theory of inheritance.
9. predict the theoretical result (probability) of genetic crosses using one or two traits.
10. prepare a scientific report.

Assessment

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