Moving from single genes to whole genomes, this course will focus on the molecular basis of biological inheritance. Major topics are Mendelian genetics, epigenetics, genomics, and bioinformatics. The course will begin with a review of fundamental concepts in Mendelian inheritance, including chromosome segregation, independent assortment, dominant and recessive alleles, and genetic variation. Epigenetics ? including hetero- and euchromatin and DNA methylation ? will be discussed in relation to chromosome behavior and gene expression.

Structure and function of biological molecules, especially proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. Important concepts include bioenergetics, biological catalysis, and metabolic pathways as interacting regulated systems. Having taken a full year of organic chemistry (or second semester concurrently) is strongly recommended.

Each week a different BMB faculty member presents their research and answers questions and engages in discussion initiated by the students. There is an individual writing assignment for the course, and class participation is required. Students host a speaker in groups of 3 -4 and coordinate with the speaker to obtain the title and abstract of the talk, prepare a short biography of the speaker in order to introduce the speaker to the class and lead the discussion.

An elementary course not for Biochemistry majors. Survey of the structure and function of biological molecules, including carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. Emphasis on relation to other life sciences. Topics include enzymology, special properties of biological membranes, hormones, vitamins, metabolic pathways, biotransformations and molecular biology. Prerequisite: 1 semester of organic chemistry.

Description not available at this time

Modern techniques in experimental biochemistry and molecular biology. Experiments include enzymology, protein purification, and gene expression and organization. Methods include spectrophotometry, polymerase chain reaction, DNA cloning, electrophoresis, protein detection by immunoblot, RNA hybridization, and computer analysis of DNA and protein sequence data. Manipulation of animal, plant, yeast, and bacterial systems. This course is Part I of the Junior Year Writing Requirement for Biochem majors.