• 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.    
  • Semester Offered: Spring
  • Credits: 3

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. The course will cover all aspects of gene regulation from transcription to protein modification to explain how 25,000 human genes can make millions of different protein isoforms and mRNA and ncRNA. Mechanisms of molecular clocks and cancer will be covered in terms of gene regulation complexity, feedback loops and rate-limiting steps with emphasis on the methods, experimental design, history, and deductive reasoning that has led to the current state of understanding of these topics.

Syllabus:

Spring 2024 Syllabus (Updated Syllabus will be posted soon)

Course Satisfies MBB Departmental 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.

Exams, Assignments, and Grading Policy

PowerPoint lecture material and readings for each class will be posted on the relevant Canvas site for this course. Graded assignments in this class consist of three exams, accompanying open-book study guides, two take-home assignments, and in-class participation in active learning activities. 

Course Materials

Course delivery format: In-person only. Lecture slides and select recordings will be made available on Canvas. Exams will be given in-person, in hard copy. 
Textbook: None. All assigned readings from peer reviewed literature will be available in Canvas.

Course Closed?

f this course is closed, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. concerning special permission numbers.

Course Coordinator

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Course Instructors

Prof. Annika Barber (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)
Prof. Isaac Edery (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.)

Student Support Services

Student Success Essentials: https://success.rutgers.edu
Student Support Services: https://www.rutgers.edu/academics/student-support   
The Learning Centers: https://rlc.rutgers.edu/  
Rutgers Libraries: https://www.libraries.rutgers.edu/
Bias Incident Reporting: https://studentaffairs.rutgers.edu/bias-incident-reporting
Dean of Students – Student Support Office: https://success.rutgers.edu/resource/dean-students-student-support-office
Office of Veteran and Military Programs and Services: https://veterans.rutgers.edu  
Student Health Services: http://health.rutgers.edu/
Counseling, Alcohol and Other Drug Assistance Program & Psychiatric Services (CAPS):  http://health.rutgers.edu/medical-counseling-services/counseling/
UWill: free immediate access to teletherapy; you can choose a therapist based on your preferences including issue, gender, language, ethnicity. http://health.rutgers.edu/uwill/
Office for Violence Prevention and Victim Assistance: vpva.rutgers.edu/
Office of Disability Services: https://ods.rutgers.edu/
Basic Needs Assistance (food, housing, and other   essentials):  https://ruoffcampus.rutgers.edu/basic-needs
Rutgers Student Food Pantry: https://ruoffcampus.rutgers.edu/food-pantry


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