We will be moving onto into the area of disciplines and methods used to study the brain. In the 21st century a discipline that has produced ground-breaking findings in the study of the brain has been Molecular Genetics. Research in this field holds the promise of identifying possibilities for healing neurological disorders. Writing Assignment #2 is designed to assist students in learning/refreshing information in basic genetics so that when genetics research methods/results are mentioned in class they will have the background to understand these findings.

BACKGROUND: We will be moving onto into the area of disciplines and methods used to study the brain. In the 21st century a discipline that has produced ground-breaking findings in the study of the brain has been Molecular Genetics. Research in this field holds the promise of identifying possibilities for healing neurological disorders. Writing Assignment #2 is designed to assist students in learning/refreshing information in basic genetics so that when genetics research methods/results are mentioned in class they will have the background to understand these findings. ASSIGNMENT: Posted on Blackboard is a book excerpt entitled “Carey – DNA and the Genetic Code (14 pp.). Students are required to read this excerpt in order to do this assignment. Other information relevant to completing this assignment will be given in class, and will be available in class notes. This assignment contributes a maximum of 25 points to the point total for the course. In 3-5 pages of typewritten, double-spaced text address the following issues: 1. (5 points) A primary function of DNA is that it provides a “blueprint” for the synthesis of proteins and enzymes. Explain the concepts of “gene” and “genetic code”. You may make use of Carey’s ideas, but put them in your own words. 2. (10 points) Protein synthesis is a necessary process that takes place in every neuron and cell in the brain. Explain the five steps involved in the process of protein synthesis (Carey, pp. 37-43) 3. (10 points) Explain the unique focus of the disciplines of Population Genetics and Molecular Genetics. How are these disciplines different and how are they complementary in their efforts to understand the brain?