BIOL3020

Reproductive Physiology and Development

10 Units 3000 Level Course

Not available in 2014

Previously offered in 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2004

Provides a basic understanding of reproductive physiology and development in mammals for those students who wish to major in biology, cell and molecular biology, biotechnology or environmental science. The course focuses on: the processes involved in the production of gametes and how their development is synchronized in males and females to achieve fertilization. Within this context, the course considers: the processes involved in sexual differentiation; the specialization of the male and female gametes and how they achieve fertilization and subsequent development; and the reproductive strategies which have been adopted in order to achieve fertilization and birth at the most suitable times of the year. The roles of the endocrine system and signal transduction processes in controlling reproduction are examined. Topical examples of reproductive adaptations and technologies are considered, such as the evolution of reproduction in humans, the development of contraceptive methods for humans and pest animals, and clonal technologies.

This course has compulsory course component and students must participate in all scheduled laboratory sessions and submit all lab reports and obtain an overall passing grade of at least 50% in the laboratory assessment..

In order to participate in this course, students must complete a compulsory Workplace Health and Safety requirement. Students will receive full information on this compulsory component in the course outline provided by the school.

Objectives On successful completion of this course, students will have:

1. Developed an appreciation for the scientific philosophy associated with research in biological sciences.
2. An understanding of the molecular mechanisms of early development
3. An understanding of the mechanisms involved in sexual differentiation.
4. An understanding of the processes involved in the specialization of gametes
5. An understanding of the processes and adaptations involved in achieving fertilization.
6. An understanding of how reproductive processes are regulated by the endocrine system.
7. Learnt how to carry out physiological studies in the laboratory.
8. The ability to interpret physiological data critically.
9. The skills to write a laboratory report.
Content 1. Endocrine system and principles of control
a) Hypothalamus and pituitary
b) Steroid hormones
c) Signal transduction

2. Molecular mechanisms of early development

3. Sexual differentiation
a) Development of gonads
b) Development of accessory organs & characteristics

4. Gamete development and fertilization

5. Reproductive strategies
a) Female sexual cycles and adaptations
b) Strategies of sperm production
Replacing Course(s) NA
Transition NA
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge BIOL1001 and BIOL1002
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Lecture
Practical
Assessment Items
Examination: Formal This assessment has a compulsory course component. A mark of at least 50% in the final formal examination is required to demonstrate that the student has fulfilled course objectives 1-6. On achieving the minimum required mark in the final exam, a final mark will be given in the course and it will be recorded that the student has satisfied the compulsory course component.

Those who fail to satisfy the compulsory course component will have the normal avenues of appeal open to them. In the event of a successful appeal the student will be given a supplementary assessment to determine whether the student has satisfied the compulsory course component.
Other: (please specify) Laboratory Exercises & Reports: This component tests the capacity of students to demonstrate skills associated with Course Objectives 7, 8 & 9.

Students must obtain a passing grade of at least 50% overall in order to demonstrate that they have fulfilled these objectives.

On achieving a passing grade, a final mark will be given in the course and it will be recorded that the student satisfied the compulsory course component. Those who fail to satisfy the compulsory course component will have the normal avenues of appeal open to them.
Contact Hours Laboratory: for 7 hour(s) per Week for 6 weeks
Lecture: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term
Compulsory Components
Compulsory Course Component Students must obtain a passing grade of at least 50% in the final examination to demonstrate that they have acquired the theoretical knowledge and to meet course objectives 1-6.
Compulsory Course Component Students must participate in all scheduled laboratory sessions and submit all lab reports, and must obtain a passing grade of at least 50% in the laboratory assessments to demonstrate that they have acquired the practical skills required to meet course objectives 7, 8 & 9.
Compulsory Course Component WHS-Safety Induction or Risk Assessment. In order to participate in this course, students must complete a compulsory lab induction.