Epigenetics and Gene Regulation

This course is designed to introduce students to the concept of epigenetics and the regulation of gene expression and heritable phenotypes without changes in the underlying DNA sequence. We examine molecular mechanisms involving DNA/RNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin remodeling, non-coding RNAs and RNA editing, and learn about the key players that regulate these processes. Students apply their knowledge to understand the epigenetic basis of various developmental disorders, the natural aging process, environmental exposures, and relevant human diseases such as tumorigenesis, obesity, neurological disorders, and infections. Moreover, we cover molecular techniques and model organisms used commonly in epigenetics research.