Process Biology (PCB)
An introduction to fundamental properties of inheritance in eukaryotic organisms, emphasizing examples in man. Basic concepts are developed for the nature, organization, transmission, expression, recombination, and function of genetic materials, and principle are derived for genetically characterizing populations.
This course serves as an in-depth exploration of cell structure and mechanics. Topics to be covered include structure and function of membranes, ion pumps, ion channels, transmembrane signaling, membrane transport, protein and nucleic acid functions, the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and Golgi apparatus, the biosynthesis of intracellular organelles in animal and plant cells, the cytoskeleton, motility, cell-cell interactions, mitosis, the control of cell division, and discussions on molecular.
Mechanisms of innate and adaptive immunity, immunochemistry, antigen-antibody reactions, immunodeficiencies, and the development, activation, effector functions, and immune response regulation will be discussed.
This course focuses on the molecular, cellular, and genetic mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis, tumor growth, and metastasis. Students will examine specific mutations that lead to loss of genomic integrity and uncontrolled cellular proliferation as well as immune system responses to cancer. Environmental causes of cancer and future trends in diagnosis and treatment will be covered.
This course presents basic principles of evolution and ecology and focuses on the diverse biotic and abiotic interactions at the population, community, and ecosystem levels. Topics include abiogenesis, the unity and diversity of life, genetics, mechanisms of evolutionary change, modes of speciation, long-term trends in evolution, the origin of modern humans, and ecological principles at the population, community, and ecosystem levels. In addition, contemporary socioscientific issues such as invasive species management, habitat degradation, global change, and sustainability are explored and related to ecological principles and theories.