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.

Students will design and carry out their own experiments focused on neural and muscle development using zebrafish as a model system. Techniques covered will include embryology, indirect immunocytochemistry, in situ hybridization, microinjection of RNA for gain or loss of function studies, pharmacological analysis, GFP-transgenics, an array of microscopy techniques. This laboratory is designed as a true research experience and thus will require time outside of the normally scheduled lab period. BIO 302 (must be taken concurrently). Enrollment limited to 12.

How does a single cell give rise to the complexity and diversity of cells and forms that make us the way we are? Developmental biology answers this question by spanning disciplines from cell biology and genetics to ecology and evolution. The remarkable phenomena that occur during embryonic development will be presented in concert with the experiments underlying our current knowledge. We will web conference with the prominent developmental biologists whose research we are covering. Prerequisites: BIO 150, BIO 152 and BIO 202 or BIO 230; BIO 154 is suggested.

The laboratory applies concepts discussed in lecture, and uses several small-group projects in the field and laboratory to develop relevant skills for conducting marine-related research. Students will learn to design and analyze experiments, and to write in the scientific style. Field trips to Maine and Cape Cod, MA, provide hands-on experience with marine organisms in their natural habitats. Prerequisite: BIO 268, which must be taken concurrently.

The laboratory applies concepts discussed in lecture, and uses several small-group projects in the field and laboratory to develop relevant skills for conducting marine-related research. Students will learn to design and analyze experiments, and to write in the scientific style. Field trips to Maine and Cape Cod, MA, provide hands-on experience with marine organisms in their natural habitats. Prerequisite: BIO 268, which must be taken concurrently.

The oceans cover over 75% of the Earth and are home to enormous biodiversity. Marine Ecology explores a variety of coastal and oceanic systems, focusing on natural and human-induced factors that affect biodiversity and the ecological balance in marine habitats. Using case studies, we will study some successful conservation and management strategies, including Marine Protected Areas.