Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Develop an in-depth understanding of epigenetic mechanisms
Understand the implications of epigenetics in ecology and evolution
Understand, select, and use the main DNA methylation analysis techniques
Understand and critically discuss scientific articles on epigenetics
This course is part of the "Molecular Ecology and Biodiversity Genomics" module, which aims to provide students with the scientific foundations and tools to use molecular biology to address questions in ecology, biodiversity, and evolution. The "Environmental Epigenetics" course aims to achieve an advanced understanding of epigenetic mechanisms and the scientific topics in which they are applied. In addition, technical aspects are studied, primarily concerning DNA methylation. Bioinformatic analyses are covered in the "Applied Bioinformatics for Molecular Ecology" course.
The course begins with a history of discoveries in epigenetics before presenting the main mechanisms, illustrated with well-known examples (e.g., genomic imprinting, transgenerational effects, etc.). The implications of epigenetics in ecology and evolution are then discussed on the basis of scientific articles that students are required to read. Examples of research conducted at URBE are also presented. Epigenetic techniques are covered in detail during the theoretical course, while the steps involved in methylome analysis are addressed during practical sessions, including bioinformatic analysis.
History
Epigenetic mechanisms: DNA methylation, non-coding RNAs, histone modifications
Well-known examples of epigenetic regulation
Definition and scope of environmental epigenetics
Epigenetics and theories of evolution
Reprogramming and transgenerational epigenetic inheritance
Epigenetics and ageing: building an epigenetic clock
Population epigenetics
Epigenetics to support species conservation
Epigenetics for natural resource management
Epigenetics in ecotoxicology
Techniques for studying DNA methylation
The theoretical course consists of lecture-hall sessions based on a PowerPoint presentation and various other resources. Part of the course involves discussion of scientific articles (approximately 10) related to a topic in environmental epigenetics. A guest speaker may also be invited to give a seminar. The practical component involves carrying out all the steps of a methylome analysis using a sequencing technique (typically Oxford Nanopore sequencing). Students perform DNA extraction, quality control, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis of the results. A comprehensive lab report is required.
The theoretical assessment consists of a written and/or oral exam related to the theoretical course, including the techniques covered and the articles discussed. It is an open-book exam but without internet access, and therefore without the use of AI. The practical exam consists of the evaluation of the written report and its oral defence. The grade distribution is 60% for theory and 40% for the practical component. Both parts must be passed (minimum 10/20) for the average to be calculated. Otherwise, the student receives the lower of the two grades for the course unit.
| Training | Study programme | Block | Credits | Mandatory |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master in Biology of Organisms and Ecology | Finalité approfondie | 1 | 2 | No |
| Master in Biology of Organisms and Ecology | Finalité didactique | 1 | 2 | No |
| Master in Biology of Organisms and Ecology | Finalité approfondie | 2 | 2 | No |
| Master in Biology of Organisms and Ecology | Finalité didactique | 2 | 2 | No |