Biotechnology

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Biotechnology
Science Course
Course CodeBIOT
Year Opened1997
Sites OfferedBRI, HAV
Previously OfferedSRF, TEC
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Course Description

From the CTY Summer Catalog:

The Human Genome Project has already sequenced all of the approximately 20,000 genes in human DNA. How did scientists gather this information? What opportunities does it provide for curing congenital diseases or cancer? What ethical questions does it pose in terms of privacy rights or reproduction? This course introduces students to the biology, technology, and potential of genetics.

Students first review fundamental principles of cell biology and genetics, including mitosis, meiosis, and Mendelian inheritance. Next they turn to the structure and function of DNA and RNA, sources and types of mutations, and genetic biotechnology. In addition to medical applications, students also explore aquatic, agricultural, and industrial applications of biotechnology. Lab work includes isolating the DNA molecule from common bacteria and splitting genes using restriction enzymes. Students also conduct gel electrophoresis, model polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and examine DNA vaccines.

Students explore current research in molecular biology and use their new knowledge to deliberate on the significance of genetics in society and the future of genetic inquiry and technology.

Lab Fee: $65

Class History

BRI 16.2 was known for sitting under the Wisdom Tree

HAV 18.1 was taught by Johanna Klinman and TA'ed by Henry Rothenberg. In both classroom and lab, the class discussed topics like the central dogma of protein synthesis (among others), did some light reading with texts like "Delivery of exogenous mitochondria via centrifugation enhances cellular metabolic function" and "CRISPER/Cas9-mediated mutation of tyrosinase (Tyr) 3' UTR induce graying in rabbit", and debated the ethics of gifted genetics, which resulted in the unanimous conclusion that they should be used ONLY to eradicate gingers from the planet. The class breaks were dominated by both games of mafia (all hail our German god Aurel) and volleyball circles that often got out of hand (thank you, Patrick). The class bonded over Max and Johanna’s constant battle as to who could be the most passive-aggressive, Skye doodling on her arm the whole time, Mini Rachel being mini, Mia and Patrick’s VERY SUBTLE relationship, Gattaca (which we never finished), and Henry talking about the research he was doing in college, which somehow involved him tasing aphids. Other notable events: The entire boys' dorm hating their RA, Paula's amazing performance at the talent show, Kenneth destroying everyone in any debate, Aron and Max's almost twin-like similarity, Mini Rachel joining volleyball circles despite being terrified of volleyballs, and Haverford refusing to let us touch the damn trees.