This is a course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) that builds on the skills and concepts learned in BIO153 (SEA-PHAGES). This course will explore bacteriophage gene function. More specifically, students will work collaboratively towards generating a gene expression library comprising all of the genes in a mycobacteriophage genome. Using this library, students will systematically screen the ability of each phage gene product to modulate specific bacterial host phenotypes. For example, students will explore whether expression of a given phage gene can inhibit host growth.

Traditional and molecular methods strategically applied to problems related to microbial biotechnology and environmental microbiology. Ranges from the diversity of microbial life to biodegradation. Seven general areas emphasized: 1) Statistical sampling and site characterization, 2) biomass determination, 3) enrichment techniques, 4) microbial activity measurements, 5) single cell detection in situ, 6) sequence and phylogenetic analysis followed by probe design, and 7) other modern techniques of environmental microbiology.

This course covers a detailed analysis of the molecular mechanisms that control the maintenance, expression, and evolution of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes. The topics covered in lectures and readings of relevant literature include DNA replication, transcription, gene regulation, genetic recombination, and translation. Class format will include lectures, journal clubs, presentations and group discussions.

Laboratory procedures in cellular immunology and immunochemistry. Lab procedures explore protein chemistry of antibodies, including antibody isolation using salt precipitation, ion exchange and molecular sieving column chromatography, spectrophotometry, SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), western blotting, immunoprecipitation, Immunodiffusion (Ouchterlony technique) and enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and Immunofluorescence staining.

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