Howdy!

In this class we have reviewed many specific sets of factual knowledge, but what stands out is the information contained in the paper that described the induction of an anterior-posterior axis from just nodal and BMP

Acquiring the factual knowledge of this paper was done by both reading it and then discussing it as a class and as groups in class. The jargon and assumptions of prior developmental knowledge were detrimental, but with all of the above factors contributing I believe it was made clear to me. Figure1, where the different angles/positions of the anterior-posterior were induced by different placements showed the most definitive proof for me. Figure 4d. also showed very compelling results to support that nodal and BMP are the minimum required element to induce the early anterior-posterior axis.

The most obvious conceptual knowledge has been shown in our class discussions: how the differential expression of genes is potentially regulated by many different factors in the cell and that systems are not “cut and dry”, they are so complex and interconnected that altering one gene could potentially have tremendous cascading effects elsewhere.

While I have been aware of these relationships in the past, a couple examples in our classes were quite explicit. In the most recent class we discussed how Bicoid and Giant binding-site knockout could cause different effects upon the phenotype. The conclusions was that one of them was a positive regulator and that the other was a negative regulator. I know this is such a simple example as compared to the complete expressions details of most genes, but looking at the data actually confused me until I talked to my group. Once we had figured out the simple 3 figure dataset it seemed so obvious, but initially it was actually a bit confusing. After this, looking at all of the cis-resgulatory regions (SO MANY), it was emphasized that things are not as clear-cut as the Lac-operon!

A skill that this class has contributed to developing is presenting. Speaking non-stop and explaining something to an audience in a clear way is something I’ve never been good at. I even get panicky in class when speaking the answer to question out loud and lose my train of thought! hahaha.

By both answering questions in class and giving the speed-dating summary of 3C I feel like I’ve slightly developed the skill. Honestly, I don’t think I’ll ever be truly comfortable, but hopefully I can become adequate enough to get me through the rest of my university presentations!

Have a great weekend! See ya midterm Wednesday!