1999-2000
(file last updated: [7/26/1999 - 10:43:47])
Objectives
Undergraduate Concentration
The undergraduate program in biology, leading either to the B.A. or to the B.S. degree, is designed to give students an understanding of fundamental and current biological knowledge in a variety of fields. The program offers a wide array of courses to undergraduates, ranging from introductory courses to advanced, specialized graduate level courses in many of these areas. The biology department has more than 25 full-time faculty members with teaching and research interests in the fields of genetics, molecular biology, development, immunology, neurobiology, motility, cell biology, and structural biology.
Since the interests and needs of our students vary, the concentration is designed to provide flexibility once the core courses have been completed. Students may elect undergraduate level courses in a variety of areas of biology and biochemistry, or may choose to obtain more advanced, in-depth training in one particular area. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of opportunities to become integral members of research laboratories in the department and to attend departmental colloquia.
A concentration in biology provides excellent preparation for students intent on careers in biological research who want to go to graduate school, for those seeking careers in medicine, veterinary medicine, and dentistry, and for those interested in the allied health professions such as genetic counseling, physical therapy, or physician assistant.
Graduate Programs in the Biological Sciences
For M.S. and Ph.D. degrees in the biological sciences, see the separate listings for Molecular and Cell Biology, Biophysics and Structural Biology, Neuroscience, and Genetic Counseling programs in this Bulletin.
How to Become an Undergraduate Concentrator
Students wishing to concentrate in biology should enroll in General Chemistry during their first year. During their sophomore year, students should enroll in Organic Chemistry, Cell Structure and Function, and Genetics. While other course schedules are possible, the one described above allows students ample time to complete the remaining requirements (biochemistry, calculus, physics, and three or five biology electives) for the biology degree during the junior and senior years and leaves students the option of enrolling in Senior Research during the senior year.
To learn more about the biology concentration, students should attend the "Meet the Majors" meeting held each fall or consult with the undergraduate advising head.
Faculty
James Haber (Rosenstiel Center), Chair
Genetics and molecular biology of yeast meiotic and mitotic recombination. Mating-type switching. Repair of broken chromosomes.
Kalpana White (Center for Complex Systems) Cochair
Developmental neurogenetics.
Laurence Abbott (Director, Center for Complex Systems)
Modeling of neural networks.
Susan Birren, Senior Honors Coordinator (Center for Complex Systems)
Developmental neurobiology.
Carolyn Cohen (Rosenstiel Center)
Structural molecular biology.
Laura Davis (Rosenstiel Center)
Cell biology and genetics of yeast. Structure and function of nuclear pores.
David DeRosier (Rosenstiel Center)
Structural studies of actin, actin-containing cytoskeletal assemblies, and bacterial flagella.
Chandler Fulton
Cell differentiation and selective gene expression in eucaryotic cells. Morphogenesis of cell shape and assembly of cell organelles, especially flagella.
Leslie Griffith (Center for Complex Systems)
Biochemistry of synaptic plasticity.
Jeffrey Hall (Center for Complex Systems)
Neurogenetics and molecular neurobiology of higher behaviors in Drosophila.
Kenneth Hayes (Director, Foster Animal Lab)
Comparative nutritional pathophysiology in man and animals. Lipoprotein metabolism and atherogenesis, cholelithiasis.
Elaine Hiller
Human genetics.
Joan Kaplan
Viruses and human disease.
Annette Lovelace Kennedy
Clinical psychology. Genetic counseling.
Kathryn Spitzer Kim
Genetic counseling.
Attila Klein
Plant physiology. Environmental studies.
Barbara Lerner
Genetic counseling.
John Lisman (Center for Complex Systems)
Mechanisms of phototransduction. Molecular mechanism of memory storage.
Susan Lovett (Rosenstiel Center)
Genetics and molecular biology of bacteria and yeast. DNA repair. Recombination and mutogenesis.
Eve Marder (Center for Complex Systems)
Neurotransmitter modulation of neural circuits.
Marvin Natowicz
Clinical genetics.
Sacha Nelson (Center for Complex Systems)
Synaptic integration in the visual cortex.
Joan Press (Rosenstiel Center)
Developmental immunology and immunogenetics.
Ruibao Ren (Rosenstiel Center)
Signal transduction.
Michael Rosbash (Center for Complex Systems)
RNA processing and molecular neurobiology.
Ranjan Sen (Rosenstiel Center)
Molecular immunology. Transcription factors.
Piali Sengupta (Center for Complex Systems)
Developmental neurobiology in C. elegans.
Neil Simister (Rosenstiel Center)
Molecular immunology. Antibody transport.
Judith Tsipis, Undergraduate Advising Head
Genetic counseling.
Gina Turrigiano (Center for Complex Systems)
Activity-dependent regulation of neuronal properties.
Lawrence Wangh
Molecular controls of DNA replication in Xenopus egg.
Requirements for the Undergraduate Concentration
A. Required of all candidates: BIBC 22a, BIOL 22b; BIOL 18a,b lab; CHEM 10a,b or CHEM 11a,b or CHEM 15a,b; CHEM 18a,b or CHEM 19a,b lab; CHEM 25a,b; CHEM 29a,b lab; MATH 10a,b or MATH 11a,b; PHYS 10a,b or PHYS 11a,b; PHYS 18a,b or PHYS 19a,b lab; BCHM 100a; and Option I or II below.
Option I: The B.A. Degree in Biology
The standard biology option that provides students with a general background in biology. In addition to the courses required of all candidates (listed above), students must take three elective courses chosen from any offering of the biology and biochemistry departments above the 22-level (excluding courses numbered 90-99). The following may also serve as electives: ANTH 116a, CHEM 41a, CHEM 41b, NBIO 45b, 136b, 140b, 142b, 143b, 144b, 145b, 147a, and NBCH 148b.
Option II: The B.S. Degree in Biology
The intensive biology option that provides students with a strong background in several areas of biology. In addition to the courses required of all candidates (listed above), students must take five elective courses chosen from any offering of the biology and biochemistry departments above the 22-level (excluding courses numbered 90-99). ANTH 116a, CHEM 41a, 41b, NBIO 45b, 136b, 140b, 142b, 143b, 144b, 145b, 147a, and NBCH 148b may also serve as electives.
No course offered for concentration requirements may be taken on a pass/fail basis. Satisfactory grades (C- or above) must be maintained in all biology and biochemistry courses offered for concentration and in all elective courses offered for concentration in biology. No more than one D will be allowed in any other course offered toward the requirements in this department.
B. Senior Research
Any senior, regardless of grade point average, may enroll in laboratory research (BIOL 99d and/or 99e). Students petition the department during the beginning of their senior year for participation in Senior Research. Petitions and information about Senior Research are available in the biology department office. See BIOL 99d course description for details.
C. Senior Honors Program
Laboratory research is a major component of the senior honors program. Enrollment in BIOL 99 (Senior Research) is obligatory; students must fulfill the BIOL 99 requirements (see B above). At the conclusion of their second semester of BIOL 99 (Senior Research), candidates for senior honors will give an oral defense of their senior honors thesis to a designated faculty research committee. At the conclusion of their senior year, candidates for senior honors must either have a 3.30 grade point average in all courses offered for the biology concentration, or have a 3.00 grade point average in courses offered for the biology concentration and have achieved an average of B+ or better in three biology electives. Petitions and information about the senior honors program are available in the biology department office.
D. A student may graduate with a double concentration in biology and any other major if the concentration requirements in both departments are fully met.
Combined B.S./M.S. Program
Candidates for departmental honors may be admitted to a special four-year B.S./M.S. program upon recommendation of the department and approval by the Graduate School. Application must be made by May 1 preceding the senior year; applications should include a proposed course of study, specifying how all degree requirements will be met, a transcript, and a brief description of the proposed research project. To qualify for the B.S./M.S. degree in biology, students must complete a total of 38 courses; these courses must include those needed to satisfy requirements A, option II, and B, as indicated above plus three additional electives in biology or biochemistry or as listed under requirement A, option II, above. Of the eight electives required for the B.S./M.S. degree, at least six must be at the graduate level (and completed with a grade of B- or above) and they must include courses from at least three of the research areas of the biology department. Research areas include genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, structural biology, immunology, and neurobiology. In addition, a substantial research contribution is required and students must submit a research thesis to the biology department Graduate Committee for review. A thesis submitted for the master's degree may also be submitted to the biology department for departmental honors.
Special Notes Relating to the Undergraduate Program
A. Premedical and Predental Students:
BIOL 12a,b or BIOL 18a,b (labs); and either BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, or BIOL 14a,b will satisfy the general biology entrance requirements of most medical schools.
B. The following five courses are offered each fall as part of a full residential Semester in Environmental Science at the Woods Hole Biological Laboratory. Prerequisites for program participation are BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, a competitive application process, and permission of the department. All courses may be counted toward the Biology B A. or B.S. elective requirement.
1. Analysis of Aquatic Ecosystems.
2. Analysis of Terrestrial Ecosystems.
3. Aquatic Chemistry
4. Mathematical Modeling in Ecosystems.
5. Microbial Methods in Ecology.
Courses of Instruction
(1-99) Primarily for Undergraduate Students
BISC 1a Biology of Neurological and Mental Illness
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. May not be taken by students who have completed NBIO 140b. Enrollment limited to 60.
This course will discuss the basic features of the brain and nervous system needed to understand the current state of knowledge concerning neurological and mental illnesses. The etiology and biological bases for treatment for depression, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's disease will be discussed. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1997.
Ms. Marder
BISC 2a Human Reproduction, Population Explosion, Global Consequences
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Preference given to freshmen and sophomores; juniors and seniors will only be admitted in spring 2000 if they need this course to satisfy a cluster requirement. Enrollment limited to 80. A library intensive course.
Appropriate for students interested in a broad range of fields including biology, environmental studies, and the social sciences. Progresses from the molecular and cellular biology of human reproduction, to a demographic view of human population explosion, to a consideration of some of the very complex problems arising from the presence of 6 billion people (and counting) on Earth today. Readings include scientific papers appropriate to students with high school backgrounds in biology and chemistry, essays in the social sciences, and a wide variety of other texts. Usually offered in the Spring semester of even years.
Mr. Wangh
BISC 3a Paradigms of Biological Investigation
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May not be taken by students who have completed BIBC 22a or BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 20.
Examines the concepts and principles of scientific research with examples from its Greek beginnings to modern times. Topics from evolutionary biology, neuroscience, biophysics, and molecular biology are used to describe the nature of scientific advances. Concepts related to experimental design and critical thinking are considered. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Farber
BISC 3b Organisms and the Environment
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Enrollment limited to 60.
An exploration of basic biological functions such as nutrition, energy metabolism, reproduction, and locomotion in organisms. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1997.
Mr. Klein
BISC 4a Heredity
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. May not be taken by students who have completed BIBC 22a. Enrollment limited to 80.
An exploration of what genes are, how they are inherited, and how they work. Focuses on human genetics, including why changes in certain genes cause inherited diseases, recent technological developments such as gene therapy and the human genome project. Usually offered in even years.
Ms. Hall
BISC 5a Viruses and Human Disease
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Prerequisite: High school chemistry. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. May not be taken by students who have completed BIBC 22a or BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 40.
Explores the fundamentals of HIV infection and AIDS. The biology of HIV virus replication is discussed in detail as well as how the virus damages host cells and causes disease. Other topics include the immune system that HIV destroys, the global AIDS epidemic, antiviral therapy, and vaccines. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Kaplan
BISC 5b Biological Rhythms
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology.
Oscillating phenomena in biology will be presented and discussed. The rhythmic attributes include behavior, physiology, and biochemistry (involving recently discovered gene products). The organisms studied range from microbes to insects and other invertebrates; to mammals including humans. Topics include the many ways in which rhythms can be monitored, mechanisms of biological "pacemaking," and the relevance of these clocks to human health. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1996.
Mr. Hall
BISC 6a Recombinant DNA
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Open to concentrators in science or to premedical students only with consent of the instructor. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
This course for non-science majors explores the new revolution in genetics and its implications for our lives. We examine heredity, the structure of genetic material, DNA, and how chimeric DNAs are constructed and studied. Those fundamentals provide the basis for considering how the new gene technology is used for studying biological problems and for treating diseases, and also how the technology might be used to affect our heredity. Usually offered in odd years.
Staff
BISC 7a Biology of People
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Prerequisite: High school chemistry. Enrollment limited to 50. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology or biochemistry. Not open to premedical students or concentrators in biology or biochemistry.
This course examines the functions of cells in the body, principles of heredity, and the immune system. Among the specific topics are the mechanisms through which DNA controls the synthesis of proteins; the functions of various proteins; how characteristics are inherited; functions of the immune system and its abnormalities, including autoimmune diseases and AIDS. The chemical composition of DNA, RNA, and protein will be discussed. Usually offered in odd years.
Staff
BISC 8b The Molecules of Life: Design and Function
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Prerequisite: High school biology or chemistry. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
The shape and functions of organisms rest on key biological molecules. Discussion of their design and properties provide background for the appreciation of evolutionary change, discoveries in molecular biology, and diseases caused by molecular defects (e.g., sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis). Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1997.
Ms. Cohen
BISC 9a Immunity and Disease
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Prerequisite: High school chemistry and biology. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Enrollment limited to 50.
After a basic review of cells and cell structures, the course introduces the immune system, including the cell types involved, genetics, structure and function of antibodies and T cell receptors, B vs. T cell immunity, and the concepts of vaccines. We also discuss specific diseases caused by viral and bacterial pathogens, including influenza and AIDS. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1996.
Ms. Press
BISC 9b Physiology of the Human Body
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Open to concentrators in science or to premedical students only with the consent of the instructor. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology.
The human body can be viewed as a complex society of different cells organized into different organs that collaborate to maintain a constant environment necessary for the survival of the organism. Students review the function of different organs and how these are orchestrated by the hormonal and the nervous system. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1996.
Staff
BISC 10b Nutrition: Principles, Issues, and Applications
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Prerequisite: One year of chemistry in high school is recommended. Open to concentrators in science or to premedical students only with the consent of the instructor. Does NOT meet the concentration requirements in biology. Enrollment limited to 60.
Presents the fundamentals of nutrition, provides an understanding of the nutritional aspects of several diseases, and introduces scientific research in the field of nutrition. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1997.
Staff
BIOL 12a General Biology Lab I
Prerequisites: Must be taken concurrently with BIOL 14a. Does yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $15 per semester. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology, biochemistry, or neuroscience, but does satisfy the general biology entrance requirement of most medical schools.
This course provides firsthand experience with a wide array of organisms and illustrates basic approaches to problem solving in biology. Usually offered every summer.
Staff
BIOL 12b General Biology Lab II
Prerequisites: Must be taken concurrently with BIOL 14b. Does yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $15 per semester. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology, biochemistry, or neuroscience, but does satisfy the general biology entrance requirement of most medical schools.
See BIOL 12a for course description. Usually offered every summer.
Staff
BIOL 14a General Biology I
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Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
An introduction to the biology of organisms and populations. Topics include evolution of life, biological diversity, and the physiology of plants and animals. Usually offered every summer.
Staff
BIOL 14b General Biology II
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Prerequisites: BIOL 14a, an introductory biology course, or high school AP biology. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
An introduction to the principles of modern cellular and molecular biology. Also includes selected topics in genetics, biochemistry, and developmental biology. Usually offered every summer.
Staff
BIOL 17b Conservation Biology
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Prerequisites: Two years of high school science. Enrollment limited to 100. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
A broad exploration of natural environments and the adaptations of organisms found in them. Flow of energy and materials through food webs; populations and communities; predation and competition; impact of agriculture, industries, and other anthropogenic forces on ecosystems and on biodiversity. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Klein
BIOL 18a General Biology Laboratory
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Prerequisites: Must be taken concurrently with BIBC 22a. Does yield half-course credit toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $15 per semester. Enrollment limited to 48 per section.
Provides firsthand experience with a wide array of organisms and illustrates basic approaches to problem solving in genetics and molecular biology. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Tsipis
BIOL 18b General Biology Laboratory
This course must be taken concurrently with BIOL 22b. Does yield half-course credit, toward rate of work and graduation. Two semester hour credits. Laboratory fee: $15 per semester. Enrollment limited to 48 per section.
Provides firsthand experience with a wide array of organisms and illustrates basic approaches to problem solving in cell biology. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Tsipis
BIBC 22a Genetics and Molecular Biology
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Prerequisites: BIOL 22b. BIOL 18a must be taken before or concurrently with this course.
An introduction to the current understanding of hereditary mechanisms and the cellular and molecular basis of gene transmission and expression. Usually offered every year.
Messrs. Fulton and Wensink
BIOL 22b Cell Structure and Function
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Prerequisite: CHEM 10a, b or 11a, b or 15a, b. BIOL 18b must be taken concurrently with this course.
An introduction to the architecture of cells, organelles, and their macro-molecular components. Topics include fundamental processes that are common to all cells, and the functions of specialized cells. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Birren and Mr. DeRosier
BIOL 25a Molecular Motors
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Prerequisite: BIOL 22b.
A discussion of movement in muscle and nonmuscle cells. Topics include muscle contraction, cell division, ciliary and flagellar motion, axonal transport, and protoplasmic streaming. The mechanism of movement will be analyzed in terms of the properties of structural and control proteins. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. DeRosier
BIOL 26a Plant Biology
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Prerequisites: BIOL 18b, BIBC 22a, and BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 25.
We examine aspects of the physiology, metabolism, and growth of plants that adapt them to their special positions in terrestial and aquatic ecosystems. We also explore the molecular biology of photosynthesis, photomorphogenesis, and flowering. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1994.
Mr. Klein
BIOL 27a Aquatic Ecology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 20. Students may not take both this course and BIOL 17b for credit.
Analysis of biotic and abiotic factors that govern life in lakes and streams. Topics include hydrology, food webs, special aquatic habitats, conservation and restoration, and principles of monitoring the health of fresh waters. Field and laboratory work is included. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Klein
BIOL 28a Marine Biology
(Formerly ENVS 28a)
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of Professor Klein required. Offered under the auspices of the MSC and open to Brandeis students by petition.
Survey of the basic biology, behavior, and life history of marine biota. Review of physical habitats from polar to tropical waters. Focus is on the evolution of adaptive responses to the physical and biological factors in marine communities. Weekly laboratory consists of field trips to different habitats and examination of specimens from several marine phyla. Usually offered every fall (at Brandeis).
Mr. Klein (Brandeis coordinator)
BIOL 30b Cetacean Biology and Conservation
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Prerequisites: BIOL 22b, BIOL 42a recommended. Signature of Professor Klein required. Offered under the auspices of the MSC and open to Brandeis students by petition.
Examines the biology and conservation of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Topics include physiology, morphology, population biology, life history, molecular genetics, distributional ecology, and social behavior. Usually offered every year (at Brandeis).
Mr. Klein (Brandeis coordinator)
BIOL 31b Biology of Fishes
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of Professor Klein required. Offered under the auspices of the MSC and open to Brandeis students by petition.
Evolution, systematics, anatomy, physiology, and behavior of freshwater, marine, and anadromous fishes from temperate and tropical environments. Fish interactions in communities: predator/prey, host/symbiont relationships, and fish as herbivores. The ecology of fish populations. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Klein (Brandeis coordinator)
BIOL 37b Biology of Extreme Environments
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b; BCHM 100a recommended.
A study of molecular, metabolic, and physiological mechanisms of adaptations to extreme environments, such as hot springs, polar regions, and deserts. We examine the limits to which biological systems can be modified by nature and human manipulation. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Klein
BIOL 42a Human Physiology
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Prerequisite: BIOL 22b.
Basic physiological principles will be introduced with an overview of neural and hormonal control mechanisms. The topics will include physiology of cardiovascular and respiratory systems, electrolyte regulation, digestion and absorption, and the reproductive system. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Nelson
NBIO 45b The Physiological Basis of Psychological Processes
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Enrollment limited to 75.
Understanding how the brain works is one of the major challenges of modern science. Topics to be covered include perception, memory, emotion, and behavioral control. Principles of neuropharmacology, brain anatomy, and electrophysiology are reviewed. Illustrates how the combined use of physiological and psychological methods give insight into brain processes. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Lisman
NBIO 46b The Neurobiology of Sleep and Dreaming
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Prerequisite: BIOL 42a or NBIO 45b or NBIO 140b or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 20.
Why do we sleep? What is the neurobiological basis of dreaming? Lectures, discussions, and a class project help students answer these questions. We also review related topics, such as the stages of sleep, circadian rhythms, and sleep disorders. Special one time offering. Will be offered in the spring of 2000.
Mr. Leslie
BIOL 55b Diet and Health
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An elective for science majors with previous course work in nutrition, physiology, or biochemistry. Enrollment limited to 50.
Reviews the current evidence concerning the dietary impact on the chronic diseases of humans. Topics include genetics and nutrition, cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cancer and will examine the involvement of specific nutrients, e.g., fat and cholesterol, vitamins, minerals, fiber, and alcohol in these disease processes. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1999.
Staff
BIOL 60b Evolution
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Prerequisites: BIOL 18a and b, BIBC 22a, and BIOL 22b.
An introduction to evolution, with in-depth exploration of selected topics in evolutionary biology. These topics will range from molecular evolution as revealed by DNA sequencing to the origin and evolution of primates. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Fulton
BIOL 98a Readings in Biology
Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of the instructor required. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology. May not be taken for credit by students who have satisfactorily completed BIOL 98b.
Open to exceptionally well-qualified students. This is a tutorial course with readings in a specified biological field. The student will be given a reading list, including current literature and reviews of the topic to be discussed. Course requirements include weekly discussions and the writing of several papers. Usually offered every year.
Staff
BIOL 98b Readings in Biology
Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of the instructor required. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology. May not be taken for credit by students who have satisfactorily completed BIOL 98a.
See BIOL 98a for course description. Usually offered every year.
Staff
BIOL 99d Senior Research
Signatures of the instructor and the senior honors coordinator (Ms. Birren) required. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
A year-long, two-semester course involving the student in an independent research project conducted under the supervision of a staff member and serving as an intensive introduction to specific methods of biological research. Admission only with permission of the department and the staff member proposed as the research supervisor. In cases where students are able to do unusually long, intensive work in the laboratory, they may request a third course credit during the petition process; if this request is approved by the senior honors coordinator, students should register for BIOL 99d (fall) and BIOL 99e (spring) or, alternatively, for BIOL 99e (spring) followed by BIOL 99d (fall). The combined enrollments for Senior Research may not exceed three semester course credits. To fulfill the BIOL 99 requirements, students must (1) submit to their research sponsor, at the conclusion of their first BIOL 99 semester, a paper that reviews the literature pertinent to their field of research, and (2) submit to their research sponsor, at the conclusion of their second BIOL 99 semester, a senior thesis that includes an abstract, an introduction, a review of materials and methods, results, discussion, and references. Usually offered every year.
Staff
BIOL 99e Senior Research
Signatures of the instructor and the senior honors coordinator (Ms. Birren) required. Does NOT meet the concentration requirement in biology.
See BIOL 99d for course description. Usually offered every semester.
Staff
(100-199) For Both Undergraduate and Graduate Students
BIOL 102b Structural Molecular Biology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b; or permission of the instructor.
An introduction to the structural basis of molecular biology. It will include background material on the designs of proteins and nucleic acids and their assembly, as well as the techniques used to visualize structure. A major theme will be the physical and chemical basis for specificity in molecular recognition. Usually offered every year.
Mr. DeRosier
BIOL 103b Mechanisms of Cell Functions
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Prerequisite: BIOL 22b or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 50.
An advanced course focusing on a mechanistic understanding of cell biological processes and the methods by which these processes are elucidated. Papers are chosen to illustrate a variety of experimental approaches including genetics, biochemistry, microscopy and the design and use of in vitro assays. Topics include cell cycle dynamics, secretion, protein folding and degradation pathways, signal transduction, intracellular transport, nuclear architecture, and the cytoskeleton. Usually offered every other year.
Ms. Davis
BIOL 104a Structural Approaches to Cell Biology
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The purpose of this course is to rigorously develop the foundations of structural cell biology. The first part of this course reviews the mathematical methods and physical principles required to understand how the structure of macromolecules and macromolecular assemblies are determined. The second part of the course deals specifically with individual methods, including light microscopy, higher resolution electron microscopy of macromolecules, and protein crystallography. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the fall of 1996.
Mr. DeRosier
BIBC 105b Molecular Biology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b.
Examination of molecular processes in replication and expression of genetic information and techniques by which this understanding has been achieved. Topics include recombinant DNA and other molecular biological techniques, structure and organization of DNA in chromosomes, DNA replication, transcription and regulation of gene expression, RNA structure and processing, mRNA stability, and other mechanisms of post-translational control. Usually offered every year.
Messrs. Rosbash and Sen
BIOL 111a Developmental Biology
(Formerly BIOL 61a)
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Prerequisites: BIOL 18a,b; BIBC 22a, BIOL 22b. This course may not be repeated for credit by students who have taken BIOL 61a in previous years.
How do complex organisms build themselves starting from single cells? We will examine how processes such as fertilization, embryogenesis, cell differentiation, and tissue-specific gene expression occur; what is known about the key molecules and genes that orchestrate these processes; and how genetic changes affecting these processes underlie the evolution of body form. Usually offered in even years.
Ms. White
BIOL 112b Genes and Genomes
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b.
Our understanding of genes in chromosomes has been radically transformed by the complete sequencing of the genomes of several prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms and by the continuing Human Genome Project. We explore new techniques to examine the arrangement of genes and chromosomes in the nucleus, CHIP and SAGE analysis of global gene expression, enhancer trapping and tissue-specific gene expression, and transformation and gene modification in bacteria, yeast, fruit flies, worms, mice, and humans. Usually offered in even years.
Messrs. Haber and Sen
BIOL 122a Molecular Genetics
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b (or equivalents) or permission of the instructor.
A lecture and literature-based course concerning mechanisms that control genetic change and genetic stability. Lectures cover the topics of genetic mutation, genetic recombination, repair of genetic damage, and chromosome structure and transmission. Research papers of current and historical interest will be discussed. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Haber and Ms. Lovett
BIOL 125a Immunology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b.
Topics include properties, functions of cells involved in immunity; genes, structure, function of immunoglobins and T cell receptors; cell interactions; antigen recognition; lymphokines; tolerance; lymphocyte differentiation; genetic regulation; viral immunity; autoimmunity; AIDS; vaccines. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Press
BIOL 126b Protein Structure and Disease
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, or the equivalent, or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 25.
Reviews the basic principles of protein structure, so that the functional aspects of different protein designs may be understood. We examine various protein mutations related to certain molecular diseases and the architecture of some key viruses and their infectivity. Consideration of drug design is an integral part of the course. Student presentations are essential to the course. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1998.
Ms. Cohen
BIOL 128a Human Genetics
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 50.
Survey of classical and nonclassical patterns of inheritance; cytogenetics; applications of molecular genetics techniques in human genetics, analysis of variation, gene mapping, identification of candidate genes and genetic disease diagnoses; single gene vs. complex inheritance; computer databases for human genetic research; and human population genetics. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Hiller
BIOL 132a General Microbiology
(Formerly BIOL 32a)
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, (BCHM concentrators may substitute BCHM 100a); CHEM 25a and 25b.
A survey of the physiology of bacteria and other microorganisms. We will concentrate on those aspects of cell structure and function that are important for diverse microbial lifestyles. In addition, we will pay special attention to the biology of disease-causing organisms and microbiological problems facing medicine today. Usually offered in odd years.
Ms. Lovett
BIOL 133b Marine Microbial Ecology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b.
Diversity and evolution of microbial life in the ocean. The fundamental importance of aquatic microbial assemblages in the biosphere. Aerobic, anaerobic, and extreme environments, global biogeochemical cycles, trophic structure of natural communities, energy flow in ecosystems, global warming, bioremediation.
Mr. Epstein
BIOL 134b Topics in Ecology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. This course may be repeated for credit. Signature of the instructor required.
Annually, a different aspect of the global biosphere is selected for analysis using contemporary tools and approaches. In any year the focus may be on specific ecosystems (e.g., terrestrial, aquatic, tropical, arctic), populations, system modeling, or the contributions of physical or chemical factors defining a particular system. Please consult the Course Schedule for the particular topic. Usually offered every year.
Staff
NBIO 136b Computational Neuroscience
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Prerequisites: MATH 10a and b, and either PHYS 10a and 10b, CHEM 11a and 11b, BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b, or approved equivalents.
An introduction to methods and results in mathematical and computer modeling of neural systems. Topics include the basic biophysics of ion conduction, single and multi-compartment neuron models, information theory and neural codes, the representation and processing of images by the visual system, and models of synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Abbott
NBIO 140b Principles of Neuroscience
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Prerequisite: BIOL 22b or permission of the instructor.
Basic principles of neurobiology. Topics include ion channels and their role in generating resting and action potentials; basics of synaptic physiology and pharmacology; locomotion, visual processing; learning, among others. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Marder
NBIO 143b Developmental Neurobiology
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Prerequisite: BIOL 22b or permission of the instructor.
Discusses the mechanisms used in the development of the nervous system. Topics include determination of neuronal cell fates, neuronal differentiation and pattern formation, and mechanisms responsible for generation of connectivity in the nervous system. Usually offered in even years.
Ms. Sengupta
NBIO 144b The Neurobiology of Memory
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Prerequisite: NBIO 140b. Signature of the instructor required.
Topics include definition of the types of memory, genetic and pharmacological perturbations of memory, and neural network approaches to memory. Principal focus on the cellular and molecular basis of memory. Anatomical, biochemical, and physiological work on long-term potentiation in the hippocampus will be extensively discussed. Usually offered in odd years.
Mr. Lisman
NBIO 145b Systems Neuroscience
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Prerequisite: NBIO 140b.
Analysis of how the nervous system processes information and generates behavior, with emphasis on understanding how circuit dynamics result from the interaction of cellular and synaptic processes. Topics include generation of rhythmic behaviors, structure and function of the auditory, visual, and sematosensory systems, representation of sensory information, learning and memory. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Lisman
NBIO 147a Neurogenetics
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Prerequisites: BIOL 18a, b, BIBC 22a, and BIOL 22b. Signature of the instructor required.
Development and function of the nervous system and responses of excitable cells studied in neurological and behavioral mutants. Characterization and manipulation of genes, defined by these mutations and using molecular biological tools. Organisms: microbes, roundworms, fruit flies, mammals. Neurobiological areas: embryonic neural development, nerve cell differentiation and pattern formation, membrane excitability, responses to visual and chemical stimuli, biological rhythms, and reproductive behavior. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1999.
Mr. Hall
NBCH 148b Cellular Neuroscience
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Prerequisite: NBIO 140b or permission of the instructor. May be taken concurrently with NBIO 140b.
Focuses on the ionic and molecular basis of action and synaptic potentials. Students examine the Hodgkin-Huxley experiments on axonal action potentials and the propagation of action potentials in the dendrites of CNS neurons. Students also examine ionotropic glutamate receptors; including their electrical and molecular properties, interaction with other proteins, and their involvement in synaptic plasticity. Usually offered every year.
Ms. Turrigiano
BIOL 149b Molecular Pharmacology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a, BIOL 22b, and CHEM 25a and b. NBIO 140b strongly recommended. Signature of the instructor required.
Covers the essentials of pharmacology and the study of the actions of chemical agents (drugs, toxins, neurotransmitters, and hormones) that interact with living systems. Emphasizes molecular mechanisms of neuropharmacology. Topics include pharmaco-kinetics, hormone action, autonomic pharmacology, and the psychopharmacology of drugs of abuse and mental disorders. Usually offered every third year. Last offered in the spring of 1996.
Ms. Griffith
BIOL 160b Human Reproductive Biology
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Signature of the instructor required. A library intensive course.
This course deals with hormonal, cellular, and molecular aspects of gametogenesis, fertilization, pregnancy, and birth. We will also discuss pathological and abnormal variations that occur and the available medical technologies for intervention, correction, and facilitation of these processes. Usually offered every year.
Mr. Hayes
BIOL 172b Cancer
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a and BIOL 22b. Enrollment limited to 80. A library intensive course.
Cancers are a collection of diseases that disturb the most fundamental rules of behavior of the cells in a multicellular organism. This course will cover the nature and cause of cancer, the molecular mechanism of oncogenesis, and the molecular biology of tumor viruses. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Ren
BIOL 173b Programmed Cell Death
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Prerequisites: BIBC 22a, BIOL 22b, and BCHM 100a or permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 24.
Apoptosis, the programmed death of vertebrate cells, is essential for normal development and health. We examine the topic through recent research papers, lectures, and student presentations, with emphasis on the mechanism of apoptosis and its role in human diseases such as cancer and neurological disorders. Usually offered in even years.
Mr. Fulton
BIOL 175b Advanced Immunology
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Prerequisite: BIOL 125a or permission of the instructor.
A survey of recent advances in molecular immunology. Topics include hematopoietic stem cell biology, blood lineage commitment, growth factor signal transduction, the nature and specificity of antigen receptors, the regulation and mechanism of V(D)J recombination, and B and T cell development. Usually offered in odd years.
Messrs. Ren and Sen
Cross-Listed Courses
Human Osteology