- Level Professional
- Duration 23 hours
- Course by McMaster University
-
Offered by
About
Are you a living creature? Then, congratulations! You've got DNA. But how much do you really know about the microscopic molecules that make you unique? Why is DNA called the "blueprint of life"? What is a "DNA fingerprint"? How do scientists clone DNA? What can DNA teach you about your family history? Are Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) safe? Is it possible to revive dinosaurs by cloning their DNA? DNA Decoded answers these questions and more. If you're curious about DNA, join Felicia Vulcu and Caitlin Mullarkey, two biochemists from McMaster University, as they explore the structure of DNA, how scientists cracked the genetic code, and what our DNA can tell us about ourselves. Along the way, you'll learn about the practical techniques that scientists use to analyze our genetic risks, to manipulate DNA, and to develop new treatments for a range of different diseases. Then, step into our virtual lab to perform your own forensic DNA analysis of samples from a crime scene and solve a murder.Modules
Cracking the Genetic Code
6
Assignment
- How to Speak DNA
- Cracking the Genetic Code
- The Building Blocks of DNA
- Packing it all in!
- DNA Word Search
- Cracking the Genetic Code
4
Discussions
- Why are you interested in learning about DNA?
- What's your inspiration?
- What are you curious about?
- What was the muddiest point in this lesson for you?
6
Videos
- Meet the Decoders!
- How to Speak DNA
- Cracking the Genetic Code
- The Building Blocks of DNA
- Packing it all in!
- Summing Up
Want to learn more about the structure of DNA?
1
Videos
- The Double Helix
4
Readings
- Timeline of DNA Discoveries
- Behind the Picture: Photo 51 (interview)
- (Not Really) The Last Word about DNA (video)
- Biochemistry: The Operating System of Life (video)
Getting the Message Across
9
Assignment
- The Scene of the Crime
- Stop copying me! DNA Replication
- Central Dogma, Pt 1: Transcription
- Central Dogma, Pt 2: Translation
- Decipher the Secret Message
- Breaking the Code (aka Game of Codons)
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
- Gel Electrophoresis
- Getting the Message Across
2
Discussions
- What are you curious about?
- What was the muddiest point in this lesson for you?
7
Videos
- The Scene of the Crime
- Stop copying me! DNA Replication
- Central Dogma, Part I: Transcription
- Central Dogma, Part II: Translation
- Practical DNA: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
- Practical DNA: Gel Electrophoresis
- Summing Up
2
Readings
- The Case of the Silenced Scientist
- Labster: Crime Scene Investigation
Want a closer look at DNA replication?
1
Videos
- DNA Replication
2
Readings
- TED Talk: Drew Barry - Animations of Unseeable Biology (video)
- Protein Data Bank
Manipulating DNA
7
Assignment
- Freaky Fruit: Manipulating DNA
- Slice and Dice: Restriction Enzymes
- Lights, Camera, Transformations
- Mutations, mutations, mutations
- From Papayas to Bananas: Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
- Help Felicia design a blue tomato!
- Manipulating DNA
4
Discussions
- If you could manipulate DNA, what would you change?
- Should genetically-modified foods be labelled?
- What are you curious about?
- What was the muddiest point in this lesson for you?
6
Videos
- Freaky Fruit: Manipulating DNA
- Slice and Dice: Restriction Enzymes
- Lights, Camera, Transformations
- Mutations, Mutations, Mutations!
- From Bananas to Papayas: Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
- Summing Up
1
Readings
- Labster: Molecular Cloning Simulation
Want to learn more about manipulating DNA?
2
Videos
- Genetic Engineering
- Sickle Cell Anemia
4
Readings
- Creating Dolly (video)
- Genetic Engineering and Working with DNA (video)
- How did they make insulin from recombinant DNA? (article)
- Massive Review Reveals Consensus on GMO Safety (article)
DNA and Me
5
Assignment
- DNA: Our Genetic Blueprint
- Sanger Sequencing
- Me and My Family Tree
- DNA and My Health
- DNA and Me
4
Discussions
- Should we revive extinct species?
- What do you think of personal DNA tests?
- What are you curious about?
- What was the muddiest point in this lesson for you?
7
Videos
- DNA: Our Genetic Blueprint
- Sanger Sequencing
- The Human Genome Project
- Mammoths, Mummies, and Microbes: Ancient DNA
- Me and My Family Tree
- DNA and My Health
- That's a wrap!
1
Readings
- Labster: Next Generation Sequencing Simulation
Want to learn more?
1
Assignment
- Scientists Complete First Chapter of Book of Life With Decoding of First Human Chromosome (article)
2
Videos
- Sanger Sequencing
- Human Genome Sequencing
3
Readings
- Cracking the Code of Life (video)
- Iceman Murder Mystery (video)
- Personal DNA Testing (video)
Interested in a career in genomics?
3
Readings
- My Career in Genomics: Antibiotic Resistance (video)
- My Career in Genomics: Cancer Biology (video)
- My Career in Genomics: Evolution (video)
Auto Summary
Unlock the mysteries of your genetic code with "DNA Decoded," a captivating course designed for science enthusiasts and professionals alike. Dive into the intricate world of DNA, the molecule that defines our very existence. Guided by expert biochemists, Felicia Vulcu and Caitlin Mullarkey from McMaster University, you'll explore essential topics such as the structure and function of DNA, genetic fingerprinting, DNA cloning, and the safety of GMOs. Delve into questions like why DNA is known as the “blueprint of life,” how scientists decode genetic information, and what your DNA reveals about your ancestry. Engage with practical techniques used in genetic research, from analyzing genetic risks to developing innovative treatments for diseases. Experience the thrill of forensic science by conducting a virtual DNA analysis to solve a crime scene mystery. This professional-level course spans approximately 23 hours and is offered through Coursera with flexible subscription options including Starter, Professional, and Paid plans. Whether you're a curious learner or a seasoned scientist, "DNA Decoded" provides valuable insights and hands-on experience that will enhance your understanding of the fascinating world of genetics. Join now and uncover the secrets of DNA.

Caitlin Mullarkey

Felicia Vulcu