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The Open University

The metagenomics revolution: an introduction

The Open University via OpenLearn

Overview

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Metagenomics, the study of genetic material directly recovered from biological and environmental samples, is revolutionising biomedicine and environmental science. This free course will help you to learn how metagenomics works and how it can be used in a wide range of applications such as studying microbes, diagnosing disease, and contributing to biodiversity conservation.

Syllabus

  • Introduction
  • Learning outcomes
  • What is metagenomics and how does it work?
  • 1.1 Preparing the genetic material
  • 1.2 Sequencing the genetic material
  • 1.3 Making sense of the sequences
  • 1.4 Amplicon (targeted) sequencing
  • Metagenomics in action
  • 2.1 Uncovering life in extreme environments on Earth and beyond
  • 2.2 Detecting antimicrobial resistance in the environment
  • 2.3 Detecting old and new pathogens
  • 2.4 Improving biodiversity surveys
  • 2.5 DNA is in the air
  • Reflecting on some limitations of metagenomics
  • 3 Reflecting on some limitations of metagenomics
  • Conclusion
  • 4 Conclusion
  • References
  • Acknowledgements

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