Molecular Biology of Genome Editing and Engineering (390-0-01)

Instructors

Xiaozhong Wang
847/467-4897
Pancoe 1-405, 2200 Campus Drive

Meeting Info

Technological Institute MG28: Tues, Thurs 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

Molecular biology forms the foundation of modern biology and biotechnology, centered on the flow of genetic information and its regulation. This course begins with an in-depth examination of the central dogma, focusing on the molecular mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription, and translation, as well as the regulatory networks that govern gene expression. Building on this foundation, the course explores key principles of genome regulation, including chromatin organization, epigenetic modification, and DNA repair pathways, establishing a mechanistic framework for understanding how cellular context shapes genome function and responsiveness. The course then transitions to the molecular principles and technologies underlying modern genome editing and engineering, with students examining programmable systems such as CRISPR-Cas, base editing, and emerging platforms, emphasizing design principles, efficiency, specificity, and experimental considerations. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to understand, critically evaluate, and apply genome engineering strategies, and to develop innovative approaches for manipulating genetic systems in research and biotechnology.

Registration Requirements

Prerequisite: Students must have completed BIOL_SCI 301-0 to register for this course.

Teaching Method

Two lectures a week.

Evaluation Method

The grade will be evaluated by three midterm exams, homework assignments and discussion participation. Pass/No Pass is not allowed.

Class Materials (Required)

Textbook: Molecular Biology: Principles and Practice Hardcover by Michael M Cox, Jennifer Doudna, Michael O'Donnell ISBN -13: 978-1464126147 ISBN-10: 1464126143 Edition: 2nd. cost $90.63 (AMAZON) Additional reading materials (research articles or reviews) will be assigned for the class.

Class Materials (Suggested)

Suggested: Lodish, Molecular Cell Biology. Publisher: W. H. Freeman; Seventh Edition edition (May 2, 2012) ISBN-10: 142923413X ISBN-13: 978-1429234139.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Biology Majors until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites and registered for any required corequisites. Prerequisites: Students must have completed BIOL_SCI 301-0 to register for this course.