PLBIO 3431 - Laboratory in Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering of Plants

Spring. 2 credits. Student option grading.

Pre- or corequisite: two courses in genetics, molecular biology or biochemistry, such as PLBIO 3430. Enrollment preference given to: juniors and seniors. Co-meets with PLBIO 5431.

L. Gunn, J. Hua.

Companion to Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering of Plants course with laboratory activities that focus on the practice of plant biotechnology. Students construct transgenes using recombinant DNA methods, transfer genes to plants by a variety of approaches including tissue culture-based methods, assess the integration of transgenes in the host genome and analyze their expression by use of reporter gene assays and by preparing and analyzing nucleic acids. Students will also gain basic skills in bioinformatics.

Outcome 1: Describe the fundamental concepts underlying modern plant molecular biology.

Outcome 2: Use experimental methods typically used in plant molecular biological studies.