Behavioral Genetics (BIOL315)
Main aim of this course is to introduce the students to the concept of how genetics and environment together shape human behaviors. Genetic and environmental influences, both on normal and on pathological behaviors are discussed. Topics covered include; epigenetics and epigenomics; genetics of behavioral disorders including schizophrenia, alcoholism, major depression and bipolar disorder. Recent technological advances used in molecular studies of these diseases such as Next-Gene Sequencing (NGS) and Genome-wide Association Studies (GWAS) are studied. Research examples from litreature including family studies, twin studies and molecular genetics are covered. Ethical, legal and social issues relevant to behavioral genetics are critically analyzed.