Topics course. This seminar focuses on the study of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and parasitic and viral diseases that are of great concern in the public health community. The spread of diseases such as Ebola, Chikungunya, Dengue Fever, West Nile, SARS, avian influenza, malaria, river blindness and many other parasitic infections is also a worrisome trend. What can we learn from the great pandemics of the past (the great influenza of 1918, the Black Death of the Middle Ages, the typhus epidemic of 1914?21, and others)?

This lab introduces the computational and quantitative tools underlying contemporary bioinformatics. We explore the various approaches to phylogenetic reconstruction using molecular data, methods of data mining in genome databases, comparative genomics, structure-function modeling, and the use of molecular data to reconstruct population and evolutionary history. Students are encouraged to explore datasets of particular interest to them. Prerequisite: BIO 334 (normally taken concurrently), or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 14.

This course focuses on methods and approaches in the emerging fields of bioinformatics and molecular evolution. Topics include the quantitative examination of genetic variation; selective and stochastic forces; shaping proteins and catalytic RNA; data mining; comparative analysis of whole genome data sets; comparative genomics and bioinformatics; and hypothesis testing in computational biology. We explore the role of bioinformatics and comparative methods in the fields of molecular medicine, drug design, and in systematic, conservation and population biology.

This laboratory initially uses tissue culture techniques to study the development of primary neurons in culture (e.g. extension of neurites and growth cones). This is followed by an introduction to DNA microarray technology for studying gene expression in the brain. The rest of the laboratory uses the Xenopus oocyte expression system to study molecular structure-function by injecting DNA encoding for a variety of ion channels. The second half of the semester involves a lab project using the expression system to investigate channel characteristics or pharmacology.

This laboratory initially uses tissue culture techniques to study the development of primary neurons in culture (e.g. extension of neurites and growth cones). This is followed by an introduction to DNA microarray technology for studying gene expression in the brain. The rest of the laboratory uses the Xenopus oocyte expression system to study molecular structure-function by injecting DNA encoding for a variety of ion channels. The second half of the semester involves a lab project using the expression system to investigate channel characteristics or pharmacology.

Molecular level structure-function relationships in the nervous system. Topics include development of neurons, neuron-specific gene expression, mechanisms of neuronal plasticity in learning and memory, synaptic release, molecular biology of neurological disorders, and molecular neuropharmacology. Prerequisites: BIO 202, or BIO 230, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 20.

The use of immunological techniques in clinical diagnosis and as research tools. Experimental exercises include immune cell population analysis, immunofluoresence, Western blotting, ELISA and agglutination reactions. An independent project is completed at the end of the term. Prerequisite: BIO 306 (may be taken concurrently). Enrollment limited to 16 students.

An introduction to the immune system covering the molecular, cellular, and genetic bases of immunity to infectious agents. Special topics include immunodeficiencies, transplantation, allergies, immunopathology and immunotherapies. Prerequisite: BIO 202. Recommended: BIO 152 or 230 and/or BIO 204. Laboratory (BIO 307) is recommended but not required.

A course dealing with current issues in biology that are important in understanding today's modern world. Many of these issues present important choices that must be made by individuals and by governments. Topics include cloning of plants and animals, human cloning, stem cell research, genetically modified foods, bioterrorism, emerging infectious diseases such as Ebola, SARS and West Nile, gene therapy, DNA diagnostics and forensics, genome projects, human origins, human diversity and others. The course includes guest lectures, outside readings and in-class discussions.

Discover the compelling evidence that most of the mass of a galaxy is dark matter based on analysis of orbital data, stellar populations, and basic laws of physics in a simulated research experience. Interactive format includes computer simulations, data analysis, and confronting observations with theory. Final projects explore the viability of dark matter candidates. Offered in alternate years with 224. Prerequisites: PHY 117, MTH 111, plus one astronomy class.