SCI1210 Principles of Modern Biology with Laboratory
Most of the course material is concerned with our current understanding of the fundamentals of life at the molecular and cellular level. Concepts and information from the disciplines of biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, evolutionary and cell biology contribute in different ways to provide a coherent view of the components, processes, interdependencies, and other properties common to all organisms. The structure and regulation of genes, properties and synthesis of proteins, and the organization and communication between cells and multi-cellular organisms are essential elements for cellular growth and differentiation that will be studied in detail. Special topics to be considered include, but are not limited to, human genetics, molecular medicine, cancer biology, evolution, genomics, synthetic biology, and ethical implications of the applications of biological research. Students will gain experience with research methods and scientific reasoning through laboratory section experiments, written laboratory research summaries and from other project work.
Hours
4-3-5
Notes
FA16: Through the Lens of Human Disease; 4 credits (Wasylenko)
This course explores the fundamental principles of biology through the lens of human disease. The underlying causes of human disease are illustrative of foundational biological concepts. For example, the connection between genetics and biochemistry was established by the study of the metabolic disorder alkaptonuria (a rare disease which causes severe, early-onset arthritis), and the importance of proper protein production and processing is shown by collagen defects in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (a connective tissue disorder resulting in joint hypermobility and weakened skin and blood vessels). In this course, we will examine numerous examples drawing heavily on historic scientific literature and case studies to understand fundamental biology from a human diseases perspective. Experimental design and analysis will be emphasized, and this understanding will be complemented by laboratory activities. Through discussion, literature analysis, and group projects, students will have diverse opportunities to enhance their written and oral communication skills.
SP16: Section 01: Human Genetics and Genomics; 4 credits (Donis-Keller)
The emphasis in this section is on human genetics and genomics. The classical mechanisms and molecular underpinnings of inherited conditions will be investigated as well as an in?depth study of classical Mendelian inheritance and more complex events that influence the outward expression of genes. Genomics examples such as the dog genome and genome modifications including the latest breaking findings in genetics and genomics will be studied in class sessions and in the laboratory.
SP16: Section 02: Think like a Biologist; 4 credits (Huang)
In this survey course we learn fundamental principles of biology in a journey through the field from the molecular to systems levels. We examine different classes of biological problems and interactions across multiple scales through reading and discussion of primary and secondary literature from the field. We draw on examples from the environment, microbiology, biomimicry, and current events. Through analysis of numerous examples we uncover key principles of biology, a toolkit of which can be applied towards examining and solving multifaceted problems. Projects include examination of biology in the context of systems and exploration of ways in which biology informs interdisciplinary problem solving. Through projects and work in the laboratory students develop a practical and foundational understanding of biological principles and practice.