Plant Cell Signalling
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| BIOS3016 | Biosciences | 3 | 10 | Spring UK |
- Code
- BIOS3016
- School
- Biosciences
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
The module deals with the production and perception of plant signalling molecules. The ways in which these signals co-ordinate development and are integrated to ensure appropriate responses to environmental conditions are discussed.
Target Students
Students in the Schools of Biosciences and Life Sciences.
Classes
Lectures (27h), Practical classes/demonstrations (8h).
Assessment
- 100% Coursework 1: 1500 words
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
The aims are to provide a detailed knowledge of how plants use intercellular and intracellular signalling strategies to provide information about their environment. Particular emphasis will be placed on the way in which molecular genetics is enabling us to determine the nature of the signals and the cross-talk that takes place between them.The objectives of this module are:To impart an appreciation of the properties of receptors and the transduction chains activated by them.To illustrate the range of genes induced by signals from other cells and external stimuli and how they differ from other plant genes.To develop a range of transferable skills including practical experience of techniques for studying plant hormone signalling.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
- Compare different mechanisms used by plants to convert a hormone or environmental signal into altered gene expression.
- Evaluate research papers in the general area of plant cell signalling.
- Describe how plants control the synthesis and turnover of growth regulators.
- Explain how key plant hormones interact to co-ordinate plant growth.
- Discuss the agricultural importance of manipulating plant growth habits.
Conveners
Last updated 07/01/2025.