Pre- or Corequisites: 01:694:407-408 or 01:447:384-385 or 11:115:403-404 or 11:126:481
Course Description
Gene Regulation in Cancer and Development (01:694:492) is a course for advanced undergraduate students majoring in the Life Sciences. Molecular biology is an experimental science, and a major goal of this course is to explain not just what molecular biologists know, but how they know it. Thus, while covering selected topics in gene regulation, development, and cancer, we will emphasize the methods, experimental design, history, and deductive reasoning that has led to the current state of understanding of these topics. There are no textbooks. Material taught in this course is based on understanding general concepts, in-depth analysis of selected primary research articles and enhancing critical thinking skills. Topics include, gene therapy, inherited diseases, circadian rhythms, metabolic disorders, microbiome, COVID/vaccines, immunity and cancer resistant animals.
Syllabus:
Course Satisfies Learning Goals
- Students should demonstrate an understanding of the knowledge that is needed to begin biomedical research and that is required for post-graduate exams and studies.
- Students should demonstrate the ability to find and evaluate information about specific biological systems or problems.
Exams, Assignments, and Grading Policy
PowerPoint lecture material and readings for each class will be posted on the relevant Canvas site for this course. There will be three exams over the semester that will cover the material presented in class; there will not be a cumulative final exam. Each exam will count for 25% of the grade. In addition, there will be problem sets, in class quizzes, critiques, and/or other assignments that together will count for the remaining 25% of the grade. Absence from exams will be excused only in the case of serious illness or family emergency, and only when backed up by appropriate documentation. Requests for regrades must be submitted within 72 hours of return of the exam.
Course Materials
Because we are focusing on current topics, there is no textbook, but there will be assigned readings and literature research from the primary literature, and where appropriate, background reference material will be recommended by the instructors.
Course Closed?
If this course is closed please contact the course coordinator concerning special permission numbers.
Faculty
The course will be taught by two faculty members from the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Drs. Annika Barber and Isaac Edery.
Course Coordinator:
** All information is subject to change at the discretion of the course coordinator.
