9.322J / 7.67 Genetic Neurobiology, Fall 2002
Different colored eyes in Drosophila, and gene fragments. The different eye colors are indicators of genetic variability. (Image courtesy of Quinn Laboratory, MIT Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences.)
Highlights of this Course
In the fast-changing world of genetics, genetic neurobiology is at the forefront. This class grounds students in some of the more classical techniques, as well as the latest techniques in genetic manipulation and its impact on neurobiology. In the
related resources section, you will find many pertinent links that will help you explore genetic diseases and their root causes, as well as the protocols for genetic manipulation in model organisms. The extensive
reading list reviews the field and provides information across species, from nematodes through humans.
Course Description
Deals with the specific functions of neurons, the interactions of neurons in development, and the organization of neuronal ensembles to produce behavior, by functional analysis of mutations and molecular analysis of their genes. Concentrates on work with nematodes, fruit flies, mice, and humans.