In depth biochemistry and genetics of the major groups of strictly anaerobic bacteria with emphasis on metabolism influencing the native ecology of organisms in anaerobic habitats. Structure and function of enzymes and coenzymes unique to anaerobes, bioenergetics and regulation of fermentations and anaerobic respirations, one-carbon metabolism, methanogenesis, sulfate reduction, anoxic photosynthesis. Eco-physiology of rumen, intestinal freshwater and marine anaerobes. An historical analysis of the experimental design and methodology used in the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms for prokaryotic gene expression. The use of modern genetic technologies, in particular, recombinant DNA procedures will be emphasized.
Students give formal presentations of research results or current literature.
May be taken on pass-fail basis. Students enrolled in the MCBB Ph.D. option will be required to give one formal presentation on an A-F basis. Graduate status in participating MCBB departments required. Relationships between regulatory mechanisms and molecular biology. Current literature on these topics provides emphasis on the relationship of primary scientific literature to biochemical knowledge.