Topics include the genetic code, mutagenesis, mechanisms of DNA replication, recombination, repair and transposition, gene structure and function and mechanisms of gene regulation, and protein synthesis and export. 506 Molecular Biology of Eukaryotes Paul Schedl, Virginia Zakian Discussion of gene structure and organization, chromatin and chromosome structures, mechanisms of replication and recombination, and mechanisms of gene expression and regulation in eukaryotic cells are studied. Emphasis is placed on unique features of eukaryotic systems, with examples given from higher and lower eukaryotes. Selected topics in the cell biology and development of multicellular organisms, with an emphasis on basic principles and underlying molecular mechanisms. Topics include gradients and pattern formation during embryogenesis, receptors and intracellular signaling, cell motility and cell movements, neuronal pathfinding and patterning in the vertebrate neural tube, genetic redundancy and genomic organization.
Classes center on critical reading of the primary literature.
Samuel Wang A survey of fundamental principles in neurobiology, followed by organized discussions of selected current research topics. The first half of the course will consist of lectures and a weekly precept on the basis of the action potential, synaptic transmission, circuit-level organization of sensory and motor systems, development, and plasticity. The second half of the course will focus on original scientific literature and student presentations. Readings will center on major problems and current research in neuroscience. The course is designed to explore the molecular events that contribute to the onset and progression of human cancer.