LF248-15 Plant Molecular Development
Introductory description
This module provides a broad introduction to the molecular genetic analysis of plant development and leads to a discussion of potential implications for food security and a more sustainable agriculture.
Module aims
This new, single term module will be introduced in order to offer an additional term 1 option for GSD students.
This module corresponds to part A of the LF217 module (Multicellular System). This in effect reinstates the discontinued BS248 module.
Outline syllabus
This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.
1-2. The Plant Cell I and II (LF)
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Establishment of the embryonic body plan (IC) -
Meristems and their maintenance (IC)
5-6. Plant hormones. Auxin and its role in shaping plant growth (IC)
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Light responses and photomorphogenesis (IC)
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Photoreceptors and downstream signalling pathways (IC) -
The life cycle of higher plants. Plant gametes and fertilization (JFG-M)
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Seed development. Role of maternal tissue (JFG-M)
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Control of germination and seedling establishment (JFG-M) -
Sensing and responding to the environment in roots (MLG) -
Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (MLG)
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How plants cope with a stressful and changing environment (MLG) -
Plants under attack: defense against pathogens (MLG)
Learning outcomes
By the end of the module, students should be able to:
- Level 5 understanding of the key aspects of plant development
- Level 5 understanding of how plant development is impacted by environmental signals (light, temperature, drought and nutrient availability)
- Level 5 understanding of mechanistic pant pathogens
- Level 5 understanding of the potential strategies to generate more resilient and more productive crops
Indicative reading list
"Plant Biology". Smith et al. (2009) Garland Science. ISBN 978-0-8153-4025-6
Taiz and Zeiger, Plant Physiology, 5th edn. (Sinauer Associates, 2010)
Subject specific skills
Outline the key differences between plant and animal development
Explain the mechanisms underlying pattern formation and tissue differentiation during development
Discuss the roles of different plant hormones and their mechanisms of action.
Describe how plants alter their development in response to environmental signals and explain the underlying mechanisms.
Transferable skills
Self directed learning, group learning, adult learning, technology enhanced learning, quantitative skills.
Study time
| Type | Required |
|---|---|
| Lectures | 15 sessions of 1 hour (7%) |
| Practical classes | 3 sessions of 6 hours (8%) |
| Private study | 117 hours (52%) |
| Assessment | 75 hours (33%) |
| Total | 225 hours |
Private study description
Self directed learning and revision for end of year exam
Costs
No further costs have been identified for this module.
You do not need to pass all assessment components to pass the module.
Assessment group D
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In Module Laboratory | 30% | 30 hours | Yes (extension) |
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In-module laboratory that assesses the expression and function of Auxin protein |
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| Online Examination | 70% | 45 hours | No |
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45 min short answer paper / 45 min essay paper
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Assessment group R
| Weighting | Study time | Eligible for self-certification | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-person Examination - Resit | 100% | No | |
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45 min SAQ paper / 45 min essay paper
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Feedback on assessment
Model answers will be provided via Moodle.
Courses
This module is Core for:
- Year 2 of UBSA-3 Undergraduate Biological Sciences
- Year 2 of ULFA-C1A1 Undergraduate Biological Sciences (MBio)
- Year 2 of ULFA-C113 Undergraduate Biological Sciences (with Placement Year)
- Year 2 of ULFA-C1A5 Undergraduate Biological Sciences with Industrial Placement (MBio)
- Year 2 of UIPA-C1L8 Undergraduate Life Sciences and Global Sustainable Development
This module is Core optional for:
- Year 2 of UIPA-C1L8 Undergraduate Life Sciences and Global Sustainable Development