Course Descriptions

Prerequisites

Genetics (01:447:380 or 01:447:384/385) and Biochemistry (01:694:301 or 01:694:407).  

Course Description

This course will discuss state-of-the-art understanding of the biology of aging and longevity, considering what we know, what are particular challenges to tackling the problem, what are the controversies, what are the myths. Topics we will consider are genetics, diet, environment, chance, signaling pathways, epigenetics, late onset diseases.  Format will be lecture plus reading discussions, emphasis on molecular genetics of longevity and health span.

Topics

• What is aging?
• Model systems in aging research
• Genetics of Longevity
• Longevity signaling pathways
• DNA damage and maintenance
• Telomere theories
• Stress responses and healthy aging
• Caloric restriction
• Free radical theory of aging
• Mitochondria
• Metabolism and Diabetes
• The aging brain
• Late-onset Neurodegenerative disease
• Epigenetics
• Stem Cells and regenerative biology
• Reproductive aging

Course URL

Canvas

Course Satisfies Learning Goals

1. 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.
2. Students should demonstrate the ability to find and evaluate information about specific biological systems or problems.
3. Students should demonstrate the ability to design experiments and critically analyze data.

 Exams, Assignments, and Grading Policy:

20% Quizzes 3-4, will announce dates, one week in advance 

25% Exam 1 midterm   

25% Exam 2 final           

20% Paper presentations 

10% Class participation (hw questions, discussion—you will need to attend class!) 

Course Materials

Assigned papers, weekly readings will be posted at the course Canvas site.

Course Closed?  

This course is by special permission only, with priority given to MBB majors. The majority of the class will be juniors and seniors. To obtain a special permission number, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Non-MBB majors, please add your name to the wait list using the following link: Wait List Sign Up for Spring 2023 Courses If you have any questions, please contact the Division of Life Sciences - Office of Undergraduate Instruction at 848-445-2075 or visit our office at Nelson Biological Laboratories B112, Busch Campus.

Faculty

Prof. Monica Driscoll
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Nelson Biological Labs. Room A232

Yang Lyu
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Nelson Lab, Room A307A

** All information is subject to change at the discretion of the course coordinator.