Ocular Genetics and Molecular Biology

At the end of OPT 318 (Ocular Genetics and Molecular Biology) course, students should be able to: 1. define genetics and explain Mendelian genetics in particular; 2. discuss the process of linkage and mapping; 3. explain the nucleic acids, the concept of replication and mutation in relation to abnormalities of human eye; 4. describe genetic code and protein synthesis; 5. describe principle of genetic engineering; 6. discuss gene regulation in bacteria and viruses, and implications for human health conditions and diseases; and 7. discuss the pattern and control of inherited diseases.

Introduction to genetics. Mendelian genetics. Linkage and mapping. Nucleic acids. Replication and mutation in relation to ocular structures. The genetic code and protein synthesis as related to the eye and vision. Genetic engineering. Gene regulation in bacteria and viruses. Implications for human health conditions and diseases are reviewed. Inherited diseases; their pattern and control.