Transgenic Biology

Catalog description

The fundamental concepts, relevant technologies, and applications of genetically engineered animals, with an emphasis on livestock and poultry species, are discussed in the class. Topics will include the history and progression of the animal genetic engineering field, the development and applications of genome editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR/Cas), and discussions about the regulations and ethics of genetically engineered animals. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: (1) Provide an overview of how the developments in the basic sciences such as Molecular biology, Cell biology, Developmental biology, and Genomics are being applied to generate Transgenic animals; (2) Discuss the history and current state of animal genetic engineering; (3) Design a transgenic animal using gene-editing technologies; (4) Skillfully elaborate on ethical and regulatory considerations regarding genetically engineered animals. Assessments include in-class quizzes, take-home exams, group presentations, and class participation. There is a greater emphasis on finding and interpreting information from available resources than on memorization of materials.