Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2021 - HSCI 475 D100

Seminar in Molecular Mechanisms of Epigenetics (3)

Class Number: 2330

Delivery Method: Remote

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 12 – Aug 9, 2021: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Aug 20, 2021
    Fri, 11:59–11:59 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MBB 331 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Discussion of novel and advanced topics in chemical covalent modifications of chromatin that influence gene regulation.

COURSE DETAILS:

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will provide students with an in-depth understanding of current advances in epigenetics and explore the experimental efforts and methodologies used to address the physical changes to chromatin regulating genes. Initially, we will summarize concepts and general principles to understand DNA methylation, histone modifications, chromatin conformation and non-coding RNAs. We will discuss the current understanding of how covalent modifications of chromatin are placed, erased and readout by biological systems. We will explore ways non-coding RNAs act on transcription and translation to express genes. Topics will focus on windows during development that are sensitive to epigenetic changes through generations. Most importantly, we will identify and study environmental components that affect health and behaviour.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

COURSE OBJECTIVES:  The main objectives of this course are to introduce students to current environmental human health concerns and the basic research used to address human health problems.  At the end of the course, students should be able to evaluate peer-reviewed publications for content and rigour, while being able to describe basic techniques used to study epigenetics using examples from the primary literature.  In addition, students should demonstrate an understanding of the conceptual design of the basic molecular and biochemical approaches used to investigate human health.  Students will learn how to critically review relevant literature and communicate these points by presenting their findings in an organized and scholarly fashion to their peers.

Course Topics: 
Gene regulation
Chromatin modifications
MicroRNAs
Chromatin remodelling
DNA methylation
Enzymes that place and erase epigenetic marks
Cellular proteins that read and interpret epigenetic marks
Genes and environment/behaviour
DNA/chromatin structure
Epigenetics and heredity
Mammalian models
New technologies  

Grading

  • Presentations 35%
  • Course learning project/product 1 15%
  • Course learning project/product 2 20%
  • Quizzes 20%
  • Participation 10%

REQUIREMENTS:

For HSCI475: MBB 331, or permission of the instructor; HSCI775: none.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Peer-reviewed articles from the current literature will be selected by the students and instructor and will be available online.

REQUIRED READING:

none

RECOMMENDED READING:

1. C. David Allis editor., Marie-Laure Caparros, Thomas Jenuwein, Danny Reinberg, Monika Lachner associate editor., Epigenetics.  CSH Press, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press; Second edition. 2015.
ISBN: 978-1936113590 

2. Cavalli G, Heard E. Advances in epigenetics link genetics to the environment and disease. Nature. 2019;571(7766):489–499. doi:10.1038/s41586-019-1411-0

3. Francis RC. Epigenetics: How Environment Shapes Our Genes. Reprint edition. WW Norton; 2012.
ISBN: 978-0393342284

4. Lucchesi JC. Epigenetics, Nuclear Organization & Gene Function: With implications of epigenetic regulation and genetic architecture for human development and health. Oxford University Press; 2019. doi:10.1093/oso/9780198831204.001.0001
ISBN: 978-0-19-883120


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN SUMMER 2021

Teaching at SFU in summer 2021 will be conducted primarily through remote methods, but we will continue to have in-person experiential activities for a selection of courses.  Such course components will be clearly identified at registration, as will course components that will be “live” (synchronous) vs. at your own pace (asynchronous). Enrollment acknowledges that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes. To ensure you can access all course materials, we recommend you have access to a computer with a microphone and camera, and the internet. In some cases your instructor may use Zoom or other means requiring a camera and microphone to invigilate exams. If proctoring software will be used, this will be confirmed in the first week of class.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who believe they may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112).