Overview

In this unit you will explore the construction, components and maintenance of the cell, focusing on: the similarities and differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells; the properties and functions of membranes; how cells replicate, die, communicate, and form communities; and how cells are genetically programmed.

Offerings

S1-01-CLAYTON-ON-CAMPUS

Rules

Enrolment Rule

Contacts

Chief Examiner(s)

Dr Julia Young

Unit Coordinator(s)

Associate Professor Priscilla Johanesen
Professor Helen Abud
Dr Danielle Rhodes

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you should be able to:
1.

Relate the structure and composition of cells to their function and explain how mammalian cells differentiate to form tissues and organs.

2.

Explain the roles of different cellular compartments and organelles in cellular functions.

3.

Describe the general principles of gene organisation and the control of gene expression and give examples of how expression is controlled.

4.

Explain how cells communicate with each other and the environment.

5.

Outline the factors that control cell growth, proliferation, differentiation and movement.

6.

Describe the fundamental approaches and uses of recombinant DNA technology.

7.

Demonstrate practical skills in the molecular biology techniques that are used to study DNA, RNA and protein and use online databases to retrieve and analyse information on genes, proteins and molecular processes.

8.

Utilise appropriate microscopy techniques to visualise cells and intracellular organelles.

Teaching approach

Active learning

Assessment

1 - In semester assessment
2 - Mid-semester test
3 - Examination (2 hours and 10 minutes)

Scheduled and non-scheduled teaching activities

Laboratories
Practical activities

Workload requirements

Workload

Learning resources

Required resources

Availability in areas of study

Biochemistry
Developmental biology
Genetics
Human pathology
Immunology
Microbiology
Molecular biology