a) Describe the variation in chromosome number between organisms, its origins and implications for genetic disease. b) Using your experience of laboratory procedures, comment on good practices in performing laboratory work.

1.       This assignment must be submitted electronically by 11.59pm on the submission date

2.       To submit electronically you must upload your work to the e-submission area within the NILE/Blackboard module concerned.Click Submit>Browse (find the correct file to upload) Upload>Submit

3.       You can resubmit your work as many times as you like until the deadline. If you choose to resubmit, your earlier submission will be replaced, and you will NOT receive an Originality Report until 24 hours from when the submission was made.

4.       If submitting through Turnitin, you will receive a digital receipt as proof of submission. This will be sent to your registered e-mail address; please keep this for reference.

5.       You are reminded of the University’s regulations on cheating and plagiarism(refer to the University’s assessment and feedback policy). In submitting your assignment, you are acknowledging that you have read and understood these regulations.

6.       Late submission within seven days of the deadline will result in the mark being capped at a D-. Beyond this time the work will not be marked.

7.       You are reminded that it is your responsibility to keep an electronic copy of your assignment for future reference.

8.       Ensure that you have read the assignment brief thoroughly and included all elements stated within. You must submit this assignment brief with your final assignment submission.

You will be assessed on your ability tosuccessfully address specifiedmodule learning outcomes. Feedback on the academic/professional quality of the submissionwill be provided no later than 20-days from the initial submission.

This assignment tests the following learning outcomes:

b)            Explain the key underlying role that genes and proteins play in human biology and how these molecules can be investigated.

c)            Utilise the key underlying principles of molecular biology.

Changemaker & Employability Skills

e)Effectively communicate ideas in a structured and appropriate written format that demonstrates understanding of genetics and molecular biology to an identified audience.

f) Identify areas for self-development and explore strengths and weaknesses in performing laboratory tasks, assessing health and safety risks and recording laboratory data.

Title:a) Describe the variation in chromosome number between organisms, its origins and implications for genetic disease.b) Using your experience of laboratory procedures, comment on good practices in performing laboratory work.

This is a 2000 word report in the form of a scientific review article.

You should consider the following when preparing your submission:

The overall aim is to consider variation in chromosome number, its effects and impact on disease. Consider the difference in chromosome number and genome sizes between organisms in relation to the complexity of these organisms.  What impact does this have on gene dosage and why might this be important in disease?  Finally, consider chromosomal disorders in the clinical setting and how might chromosomal anomalies arise. Students will be expected to demonstrate they have engaged with the scientific literature, and have an understanding of the key concepts expected at level 4.

The written format does not need to have a fixed structure, but should resemble a scientific review.  Typically, a review has a short ‘abstract’ (approximately 250 words), followed by Introduction/background and a conclusion.  Sub-headings can be used to make it easier for the reader to follow.  It is expected the writtenstyle should be clear, flow well and follow the conventions of scientific writing. A good piece of scientific writing would include a range of recent and reputable references (minimum 20).  Figures and tables also help in conveying the message and add structure. Students are encouraged to formulate their own opinions, to compare relevant studies, to identify perceived gaps in knowledge, identify any perceived inconsistencies or deficiencies in the literature and conclude the essay pointing towards future directions.

Standard genetic textbooks, including those recommended on the reading list, should provide a good basis for this assignment. Preferably, you will also refer to published scientific articles.  Numerous medical journals exist describing genetic diseases.

·         Academic Practice

o   Please ensure that you read the university guidelines regarding plagiarism, collusion, and academic practice that are provided in your student handbook.

·         Suggested Initial Readings

Any standard undergraduate genetic textbook