The aim of this module is to provide in-depth coverage of new concepts in the molecular genetics of animal model systems, including nematode worms, fruit flies, zebrafish and mouse. Following a refresher on model organism biology and basic genetics, the topics covered will include genetic screening, modern gene mapping techniques, advanced recombinant technology and genome editing, as well as emerging concepts such as chemical genetics and optogenetics. Drawing mainly on recent examples from the primary literature, emphasis will be placed on the use of molecular genetics to tackle wide-ranging questions, from basic biological principles in development and neuroscience to the dissection of disease. Simple examples will be used to exemplify various methodologies, followed by more complex examples of methods applied in recent papers and cutting-edge work by UCL researchers.

After taking the module you will understand how to:

Design novel forward and reverse genetic screens in model organisms;
	Interpret genetic interaction data;
	Examine genomes through web interfaces and mapping software;
	Design targeting constructs for the manipulation of genetic loci.
	Use chemical genetics to discover phenotypes with small molecules
	Edit genomes using CRISPR and other state-of-the-art DNA editing technologies.
Lectures will generally comprise one hour covering theory and concepts followed by one hour illustrating the use of these concepts in modern biological research and cutting-edge papers. There will also be two four-hour problem classes: one on manipulating genomes and a second laboratory practical on the genetics of model systems.

This module is an option for third year Biomedical, Biological and Natural Sciences students and may be taken as an elective by students (including affiliate students) on other degree programmes. There are no specific prerequisites, but a strong background in molecular biology and genetics would be useful.

Indicative lecture topics (based on module content in the last couple of years):

Central Dogma and Mendelian Genetics Revisited/the Modern Menagerie
	The Art and Design of Forward Genetic Screens
	From Screens to Genes: Modern Mapping Techniques
	Behavioural Screening
	Drosophila Developmental Genetics
	Reverse Genetics: Customized Mice (Knockouts and Knockins)
	Reverse Genetics II: Modern Genome Editing (TALENs and Crisprs)
	Hard Core Chemists Embrace Genetics: Chemical Genetics
	Beyond the Modern Menagerie: Functional Genetics in Any (?) Species
	Hard Core Neuroscience Embraces Genetics: Optogenetics.
Module organizers: Dr Richard Poole (r.poole@ucl.ac.uk) and Prof. Jason Rihel (j.rihel@ucl.ac.uk).