Objectives

This course is designed to provide a background in cell, molecular, and developmental biology.

More specifically, the objectives are

1) To understand cellular processes at the molecular level, including how genes work; how genes are turned on and off; how molecules move into and out of cells; how molecules are distributed within cells; how cells create energy; how hormones, neurotransmitters and growth factors work; how cells move and migrate; how cells communicate; how cells stick together; as well as some recent discoveries in these areas.

2) To understand cellular and molecular mechanisms of development.

3) To understand some of the experiments which led to the understanding of the concepts and some of the methods used in these experiments.

Pre-requisites

Bio 115 (introductory biology), Bio 303 (genetics), Chem 104-106 (inorganic chemistry), and Chem 201 (organic chemistry) are required. Chem 321 (Biochemistry) is recommended.

As you enter this course, you should have a basic understanding of cell structure and function, inorganic chemistry, structure of macromolecules, cell division and the cell cycle, transcription, translation, and energy relationships.

Textbook

The textbook for this course is The Cell A molecular Approach, 2th Edition, by Cooper, which is available in the bookstore. The chapters, which cover each topic, are listed on the course syllabus, and specific pages from each chapter will be given in the lecture.

Grading

Your final letter grade will be based on scores for two mid-term exams and a final exam which are scheduled on the syllabus. Exams will be given on the dates specified and at no other. By signing up for this course, you are agreeing to this policy and recognizing that there will be no exceptions to this rule. The final exam is semi-comprehensive. You will be examined ONLY on material covered in class. The exams consist of multiple choice questions, matching questions, fill in the blanks and essay questions.

Other factors that may contribute to your grade include attendance, improvement in exam grades and class participation.

The Departmental policy concerning academic dishonesty (cheating) is stated on the syllabus. You are expected to maintain high standards of honesty and integrity.