Course Description
Exploration of advanced topics in medicine from a molecular standpoint, with a focus on the mechanistic basis for acquired and infectious diseases.
Athena Title
Human Biochemistry II
Prerequisite
BCMB 4120/6120
Semester Course Offered
Offered spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This course is intended to complement Human Biochemistry and Disease and serve those majors who pursue a career in medicine. The topics covered lie at the intersection of biochemistry and molecular medicine. The overall goal is to highlight the role of biochemistry in normal physiological processes and human disease, with a focus on cancer and infectious disease. Expected learning outcomes include: 1) Understand the biochemistry of cancer and tumor formation 2) Gain an appreciation of the biochemical and cellular bases for acquired and infectious disease at the level of protein, organelle, cell, and tissue 3) Understand the function of hormones in the body and the biochemical basis for reproduction 4) Learn how insight into the molecular basis of disease can be translated into therapies 5) Comprehend primary scientific literature The course will also address three learning objectives from the AAAS Vision and Change document for transforming undergraduate biology education. These include: 1) Developing the ability to communicate and collaborate with other disciplines 2) Developing the ability to understand the relationship between science and society In addition to lecture-based learning, class time will be devoted towards developing these skills through appropriate learning activities, including group discussion and presentation of primary literature along with real-life case studies and discussions regarding the ethical implications of scientific research.
Topical Outline
Biochemistry of tumorigenesis and metastasis; development of cancer therapeutics Biochemistry of infectious disease and host responses Regenerative medicine Endocrinology and human reproduction
Syllabus