Biology 159Y - MODELING HUMAN DISEASE

This yearlong research-based lecture-laboratory course exposes students to fundamental concepts across the life sciences through interdisciplinary research. Cannot be repeated for credit. Course only open to first-year students. Enrollment limit of 18 students. Fall: 2 credit; spring: 3 credits; 5 credits total. (E) What is the cause of a disease? How do the cells and tissues of an organism respond to the disease state? In order to address these questions scientists need accurate animal models to investigate the pathology and potential treatments associated with a particular disease. This course focuses on neurological based diseases and attempt to generate gene specific disease models in the zebrafish. Students research neurological diseases and understand all facets influencing its causes and pathology. We employ the latest in gene mutagenesis to manipulate disease targets, and grow up these potential zebrafish models of Alzheimers, Parkinsons, ALS, Autism and others. The goal is to study these models to better understand disease and identify solutions for their treatment. Students generate tangible products of their experimental design and novel results that are publicly disseminated.

Topic: Modeling Neurological Diseases for a Cure. Limited to first-years