Dr. David Webb DF 26

webb@kutztown.edu x4245

Anthropology 272: Human Genetics

Course Description: This is second-level course in human genetics. It is assumed that the students have already had an introductory course in either physical anthropology or biology. We will consider human genetics at the molecular, cellular and populational levels, and discuss how our genes work, what happens when something goes wrong and what we can do about it. We will also discuss behavioral genetics of humans: how much of our behavior is genetically controlled and how did such control come about. In addition, we will look to the future and the practical and ethical concerns of new genetic technology.

Required Text: Cummings, Michael R., Human Heredity: Principles and Issues, 7th edition, Brooks/Cole, New York, 2006.

Course Outline: Cummings

I. Introduction to Human Genetics

A. Introduction: Genetics and Society............................................................................ Chap. 1

B. Common Human Genetic Traits

II. Inheritance
A. Chromosomal Genetics

1. Mendel's Work Chap. 3

2. Chromosomes Chap. 2

B. Patterns of Inheritance Chap. 4, 5, Appendix A

C. Genetics of Sex Chap. 7

III. Genes and DNA

A. DNA Structure........................................................................................................... Chap. 8

B. Gene Expression..................................................................................... Chaps. 9, 10.1-10.2

C. Gene Mapping.................................................................................................. Chaps. 13, 15

IV. Genetic Defects: Problems and Solutions

A. Chromosomal Defects................................................................................................ Chap. 6

B. Inborn Errors of Metabolism........................................................................ Chap. 10.3-10.9

C. Mutations................................................................................................................. Chap. 11

D. Cancer...................................................................................................................... Chap. 12

D. Genetic Screening and Counseling.......................................................................... Chap. 16

E. Gene Therapy........................................................................................................... Chap. 16

V. Genetic Technology and the Future

A. Cloning.................................................................................................................... Chap. 13

B. Genetic Engineering................................................................................................. Chap. 14

VI. Genetics and Behavior.................................................................................................. Chap. 18

VII. Sociobiology and Evolutionary Psychology

VIII. Evolution.................................................................................................................... Chap. 19

A. Human Populations

B. How Human Evolution Works

Course Requirements: There will be one term paper (10-15 pages), a set of homework assignments, two preliminary exams and a final exam. Each of these five will constitute 20% (one-fifth) of the total grade. The final exam will be partially cumulative, but will heavily stress the last third of the course.