Molecular Biology of the Cell is a one-semester course designed to introduce students to the role of biological molecules in determining cellular function. The emphasis of the course is on eukaryotic mechanisms. Topics covered include a description of the structure and function of proteins and nucleic acids; the genetic code; protein biosynthesis and control of protein activity; DNA replication and repair; gene expression and its control; and signal transduction. Special topics include cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and cancer.

The format in the class is a combination of traditional lecture and problem-based learning.
 

                                      COURSE OBJECTIVES

It is hoped that at the completion of the course students will

• appreciate the importance of molecular biology to the Biological Sciences and to the real world.
• understand the role played by molecules in fundamental cellular mechanisms.
• acquire a familiarity with the nomenclature and vocabulary that allows molecular biologists to communicate.
• appreciate how the scientific process has led to the discovery of molecular mechanisms.
• appreciate the ongoing nature of research and the need for flexibility and modification of scientific knowledge.
• be able to apply the principles of molecular biology to novel situations.
• be able to evaluate scientific claims using substantiated criteria.
• have learned to retrieve and share information with others towards a common goal.

                                                     ASSESSMENT

Student progress on the course objectives related to concepts and content will be evaluated by short-answer essay examinations and by graded work related to the PBL part of the course. Course objectives related to process skills will be evaluated by the graded work related to the PBL part of the course and by peer-evaluations. Consult the Grading and Problem-Based-Learning Links on our course website for further information.

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