Biobehavioral Aspects of Genetics

Catalog description

An individual's DNA is a key biological process involved in behavior, health, and disease. The goal of this course is to introduce the foundational concepts of genetics in a Biobehavioral Health framework. This course will examine how genes are encoded by DNA, how DNA is transcribed into RNA, and how RNA is translated into protein. Additionally, this course will cover DNA at the global level of the chromosome. Finally, variation across levels will be explored. For example, variation at the level of an individual DNA base pair or through alterations in chromosome structure. Application of these concepts to human health and disease will be highlighted throughout the course. The course prepares students for a more advanced course in Biobehavioral Health that address specialized topics in health and developmental genetics.