MGY470H1

Human and Molecular Genetics

This course explores current topics in human and molecular genetics, with a focus on the genetic basis of health and disease. Key areas include chromosome structure and function, inheritance patterns of mutations and genetic disorders, the organization and analysis of the human genome, and strategies for disease gene mapping. Additional topics cover the genetics of cancer, gene-based diagnostics and therapeutic approaches, and the use of animal models to study human diseases. As a survey course, this class introduces students to a curated selection of representative themes and emerging issues across the field, offering breadth of perspective rather than exhaustive detail. Lectures are delivered by experts in diverse areas of genetic disease, allowing students to gain exposure to multiple approaches and viewpoints. For this reason, a solid foundation in basic genetics, molecular biology, and genomics is expected.