Modiwl BSX-3148:
Developmental Biology

Ffeithiau’r Modiwl

Rhedir gan School of Natural Sciences

20.000 Credydau neu 10.000 Credyd ECTS

Semester1

Trefnydd: Dr John Mulley

Amcanion cyffredinol

This module will provide an overview of patterns and processes of embryonic development, largely through the lens of comparative embryology and evolutionary-development biology (Evo-Devo). Students will gain knowledge and understanding of how a single fertilised egg cell develops gradually into a complex, three-dimensional, multicellular organism composed of highly organised tissues, and how fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms (e.g. differential gene expression, cell-cell communication, or cytoskeletal dynamics) contribute to this process. Students will develop an appreciation of how these different mechanisms integrate at the level of whole tissues, organs and organisms, and how they are functionally adapted in distinct developmental contexts. Finally, we will demonstrate how studying these mechanisms provides important understanding of human developmental disorders and disease.

Cynnwys cwrs

Some of the topics covered in this module may include:

  • Reproductive systems and gametogenesis
  • Comparative development of vertebrate and invertebrate nervous systems
  • Homeobox genes
  • Development and disease
  • Stem cells, metamorphosis and regeneration

The module will allow students to apply several key developmental biology techniques to a number of classical model systems, including fruitflies, zebrafish and chickens. Students will gain an appreciation of important practical molecular biology techniques and will also be exposed to relevant primary literature thorough the module.

Meini Prawf

trothwy

-D (40%>)

The student should be able to express a basic conceptual knowledge of at least some part of the core material presented in the module, and be able to appreciate the complexity of embryonic development in the various model systems. Provides little to no examples, or interprets them incorrectly. Written work presents at least a superficial account of all major steps.

dda

-B (50%>)

The student should be able to express a thorough conceptual knowledge of much of the core material presented in the module, and have a competent and detailed ability to critically evaluate the principles and processes of embryonic development. Some detailed examples are provided, and are interpreted correctly. Some evidence of further reading and ability to integrate material from the full range of the lecture and practical content. Written work shows some evidence of problem solving and presents sufficient detail that most of the experiments/steps could be repeated using this alone.

rhagorol

-A (70%>)

The student should demonstrate comprehensive conceptual and factual knowledge, critical understanding of theory, evidence of extra reading of primary literature and the ability to integrate this extra knowledge in a relevant manner. Extensive use of examples, including those not presented in class. Written work shows clear evidence of additional reading or research, and records steps taken in solving identified problems or trouble-shooting techniques. Experiments are recorded in a highly detailed and logical manner and could be used to repeat every step with no additional information.

Canlyniad dysgu

  1. Appreciate the important of practical techniques in embryology and molecular biology

  2. Demonstrate detailed knowledge and broad conceptual understanding of animal development, from fertilisation, through to axis formation, organogenesis, and regeneration

  3. Gain an appreciation of the diversity of processes involved in animal development, and the ways in which these have been repurposed during animal evolution

  4. Demonstrate a detailed understanding of the key models and techniques used to study animal development, and critically appraise the relevant ethical and legal issues associated with their use

  5. Gain an appreciation of the links between development and human and animal disease

  6. Demonstrate an ability to apply background knowledge and independent research in order to interpret experimental results and to solve problems, and to understand and critique relevant primary literature

Dulliau asesu

Math Enw Disgrifiad Pwysau
EXAM Section A 25.00
REPORT Practical report Developmental biology 50.00
Section B 25.00

Strategaeth addysgu a dysgu

Oriau
Private study

Private study - background reading and directed study, assessment preparation

 168
Practical classes and workshops

Online and virtual practical classes covering a range of development biology techniques in model species

 12
Lecture

Lectures, workshops and feedback sessions, likely around 2 hours per week

 20

Sgiliau Trosglwyddadwy

  • Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media
  • Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
  • Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
  • Exploring - Able to investigate, research and consider alternatives
  • Information retrieval - Able to access different and multiple sources of information
  • Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.
  • Teamwork - Able to constructively cooperate with others on a common task, and/or be part of a day-to-day working team

Sgiliau pwnc penodol

  • PS3 Problem-solving skills, relating to qualitative and quantitative information
  • PS4 Numeracy and mathematical skills, including handling data, algebra, functions, trigonometry, calculus, vectors and complex numbers, alongside error analysis, order-of-magnitude estimations, systematic use of scientific units and different types of data presentation
  • PS5 Information location and retrieval skills, in relation to primary and secondary information sources, and the ability to assess the quality of information accessed
  • PS7 Basic interpersonal skills, relating to the ability to interact with other people and to engage in teamworking
  • PS8 Time management and organisational skills, as evidenced by the ability to plan and implement efficient and effective ways of working
  • PS11 Problem-solving skills including the demonstration of self-direction, initiative and originality
  • PS6 Information technology skills which support the location, management, processing, analysis and presentation of scientific information
  • SK9 Read and engage with scientific literature
  • SK10. Development of project-specific experimental skills.
  • SK11. Reading and engaging with scientific literature.
  • SK13. Making oral presentations and writing reports, including critical evaluation.
  • SK16. Recording of data and their critical analysis.
  • SK18. Advanced studies in areas of specialism, such as the use ofpeer-reviewed scientific literature.

Adnoddau

Rhestr ddarllen Talis

http://readinglists.bangor.ac.uk/modules/bsx-3148.html

Rhestr ddarllen

Reading list will be provided, e-versions of books/articles used as far as possible.

Rhagofynion a Chydofynion

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