606-306 Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology

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This subject will examine the aspects of molecular and cellular biology and biochemistry that contribute unique properties to plants, and current techniques for their investigation and manipulation in biotechnology including genetic engineering and plant transformation.

The subject includes cellular and molecular processes underlying the regulation of basic plant functions, including:

• the modes of action of plant hormones
• knowledge of carbon and nitrogen metabolism associated with plant growth and development
• a detailed knowledge of structure and functions of plant lipids and of cell wall carbohydrates
• an insight into cell-cell recognition and signaling during plant development and the response to pathogens and symbionts
• an understanding of the organisation of the genome in plants and its modification by biotechnology.

By the end of the subject, the student should have acquired an overall appreciation of the application of biotechnology to agriculture, horticulture, forestry and the food industry.