Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology
2017-18 General Catalog
Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology Department
225 Sinsheimer Laboratories
(831) 459-2385
http://www.mcd.ucsc.edu
MCDB Faculty | MCDB Program Statement
Lower-Division Courses
15. Undergraduate Research Reports (1 credit). F,W
Undergraduate students who work in faculty research laboratories present the results of their projects. Organized by the Minority Undergraduate Research Program and the Minority Access to Research Careers Program. Designed for students with membership in the above-mentioned programs. Prerequisite(s): qualifications as determined by instructor at first class meeting. May be repeated for credit. M. Jurica, A. Zahler
20A. Cell and Molecular Biology. F,W,S
Introduction to biochemistry, cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics. Prerequisite(s): Chemistry 1A; students with a chemistry AP score of 4 or higher who wish to start their biology coursework prior to completing the Chemistry 1A, may enroll by permission of the instructor. M. Rexach, J. Tamkun
20L. Experimental Biology Laboratory (2 credits). F,W,S
Provides biology majors with the theory and practice of experimental biology. A wide range of concepts and techniques used in the modern laboratory are included in the exercises. Designed to satisfy the introductory biology lab requirement of many medical and professional schools. Students are billed a materials fee. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 20A and previous or concurrent enrollment in BIOE 20B. Enrollment restricted to human biology and health sciences majors; other majors by permission. Enrollment limited to 20. The Staff
80A. Female Physiology and Gynecology. S
Biochemical, medical, social, and clinical aspects of the female body. Emphasis will be on biological-chemical interactions in the female organs. Topics include female anatomy, cell physiology, endocrine functions, sexuality and intimacy, sexually transmitted diseases, puberty, pregnancy, menopause, birth control, abortion, immunity, cancer. (General Education Code(s): SI.) The Staff
80E. Evolution. *
Introduction to Darwinian evolution including how the theory was devised and a discussion of other theories proposed at the time. Explores the facts and evidence of evolutionary processes and the insights they provide in biological diversity, consequences of extinction, and emergence of new diseases. Includes a discussion of evolution and spirituality. (General Education Code(s): SI.) M. Zavanelli
86. Research Deconstruction: MCD Biology (3 credits). S
Explores scientific principles and logic through research seminars in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. Additional topics may include diseases, stem cell biology, and other medically relevant areas in biomedical research. Prerequisite(s): Mathematics 3 or equivalent (i.e., mathematics placement examination score), and satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment is restricted to first-year, sophomore, and junior students. Enrollment by permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 30. (S) G. Hartzog
88. Studies in Medicine: Its Art, History, Science, and Philosophy. W
An interdisciplinary, multicultural, and historical perspective of medicine focused primarily upon therapy and practice to achieve better understanding of the scope, practice, and limits or medicine. Prerequisite(s): satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment by permission of instructor. Prerequisite(s): satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment limited to 30. (General Education Code(s): SI.) (S) G. Hartzog
Upper-Division Courses
100. Biochemistry. F,W
An introduction to biochemistry including biochemical molecules, protein structure and function, membranes, bioenergetics, and regulation of biosynthesis. Provides students with basic essentials of modern biochemistry and the background needed for upper-division biology courses. Students who plan to do advanced work in biochemistry and molecular biology should take the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 100 series directly. Students cannot receive credit for this course after they have completed any two courses from the BIOC 100A, 100B, and 100C sequence. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 20A and BIOE 20B; and CHEM 108A or 112A. J. Sanford, D. Kellogg
100L. Biochemistry Laboratory. *
Basic techniques and principles of laboratory biochemistry including isolation and characterization of a natural product, manipulation of proteins and nucleic acids to demonstrate basic physical and chemical properties; and characterization of enzyme substrate interactions. Students are billed a materials fee. Enrollment restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors; biology minors; non-majors by instructor permission. (Formerly Advanced Biochemistry Laboratory.) Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A, and BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L; satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment limited to 20. The Staff
101. Molecular Biology (3 credits). W,S
Covers the basic molecular mechanism of DNA replication and transcription, protein synthesis, and gene regulation in bacterial and eukaryotic organisms. The experimental techniques used to determine these mechanisms are emphasized. Unless students have already passed course 20L, they are strongly encouraged to enroll in course 101L. Prerequisite(s): course 100 or Biochemistry and molecular biology 100A. C. Vollmers, M. Jurica
101L. Molecular Biology Laboratory (2 credits). W,S
Laboratory course providing hands-on experience with, and covering conceptual background in, fundamental techniques in molecular biology and biochemistry, including DNA cloning, PCR, restriction digest, gel electrophoresis, protein isolation, protein quantification, protein immunoblot (Western) analysis, and use of online bioinformatics tools. Students are billed a materials fee. (Formerly Biochemistry Laboratory.) Previous or concurrent enrollment in BIOL 100, 101, or BIOC 100A is required. Students cannot receive credit for this course and BIOL 20L. J. Lee
102L. Toxic RNA Laboratory I (3 credits). F,S
Introduces hypothesis-driven laboratory research. Students create models of a unique uncharacterized disease causing mutation and determine how it impacts the process of pre-mRNA splicing. An understanding of introductory molecular biology and genetics is required. Students are billed a materials fee. Prerequisite(s): course 20A and satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment is restricted to sophomore, junior, and senior biological sciences and affiliated majors. Enrollment is by application and permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 25. (General Education Code(s): PR-E.) J. Sanford
105. Genetics. F,W,S
Mendelian and molecular genetics; mechanisms of heredity, mutation, recombination, and gene action. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 20A and BIOE 20B. S. Strome, N. Bhalla, J. Lee
105L. Eukaryotic Genetics Laboratory. F,W,S
Classical and newly developed molecular-genetic techniques used to explore genetic variation in wild populations of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Topics include Mendelian fundamentals, mapping, design of genetic screens, bio-informatic and database analysis, genetic enhancers, and population genetics. Students are billed a materials fee. Enrollment restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors; biology minors; non-majors by instructor permission. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A; BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L; BIOL 105; satisfaction of Entry Level Writing and Composition Requirements. The Staff
109L. Yeast Molecular Genetics Laboratory. F,W,S
Using budding yeast as an experimental organism, this laboratory provides practical experience in classic and modern molecular biology and in genetic and epigenetic methods, and develops strong scientific communication skills. Topics include mendelian genetics, linkage, gene replacement, chromatin immunoprecipitation and epigenetics. Students are billed a materials fee. Enrollment restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors; biology minors. Non-majors enroll by instructor permission. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L, and BIOL 105. Satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment limited to 20. G. Ruben
110. Cell Biology. F,S
Covers the structure, organization, and function of eukaryotic cells. Topics include biological membranes, organelles, protein and vesicular trafficking, cellular interactions, the cytoskeleton, and signal transduction. Requires a good understanding of basic biochemistry and molecular biology. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 101 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 105; and BIOL 101L or 100K or 20L. M. Rexach, L. Hinck
110L. Cell Biology Laboratory. *
Fundamental aspects of cell biology explored through experimentation in a modern laboratory setting. Research topics include the structure and function of biological membranes; intracellular transport and organelle biogenesis; the cell cycle; and the cytoskeleton. Students are billed a materials fee. Enrollment restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors; biology minors. Non-majors enroll by instructor permission. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A, and BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L, and previous or concurrent enrollment in BIOL 110. Satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment limited to 16. The Staff
111. Immunology. *
Immune systems--their manifestations and mechanisms of action. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B, BIOL 105, and BIOL 110. G. Ruben
111A. Immunology I. W
Principles and concepts of the innate and adaptive immune systems, with emphasis on mechanisms of action and molecular and cellular networks. The development, differentiation, and maturation of cells of the immune system are also discussed. Prerequisite(s): courses BIOE 20B, and BIOL 20A, 105, and 110. S. Carpenter
111B. Immunology II. S
The immune system in health and disease, including failures of host immune-defense mechanisms, allergy and hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, transplantation biology, the immune response to tumors, immune-system interactions with pathogens, and manipulation of the immune response. Prerequisite(s): course 111A. M. Zuniga
112. Virology (3 credits). S
Principles of virology illustrated through study of specific examples. Topics include: viral genome organization, viral assembly, virus-host interactions, genetic diversity of viruses, viral ecology, and the epidemiology of viral diseases. Prerequisite(s): courses 101 and 110. Enrollment limited to 25. M. Zuniga
114. Cancer Cell Biology. S
Focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms behind cancer. Topics covered include oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, cell growth genes, checkpoint genes, telomeres, and apoptosis. Students will gain experience in reading the primary scientific literature. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 110 or 115. (General Education Code(s): TA.) A. Zahler
115. Eukaryotic Molecular Biology. S
Covers eukaryotic gene and genome organization; DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis; regulation of gene expression; chromosome structure and organization; and the application of recombinant DNA technology to the study of these topics. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 101 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 105; and BIOL 101L or 100K. Enrollment restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors, non-majors by permission of instructor. H. Boeger
115L. Eukaryotic Molecular Biology Laboratory. F,W,S
A laboratory designed to provide students with direct training in basic molecular techniques. Each laboratory is a separate module which together builds to allow cloning, isolation, and identification of a nucleic acid sequence from scratch. Students cannot receive credit for this course and course 187L or 287L. Students are billed a materials fee. Restricted to biological sciences/affiliated majors; biology minors; other majors by permission. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A or CHEM 103, and BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L, and previous or concurrent enrollment in BIOL 101 or 115. Satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment limited to 20. The Staff
116. Advanced Topics in Cell Biology (3 credits). S
Advanced course in cell biology featuring small-classroom discussion of topics related to the structure and function of cells and their organelles. Emphasis is given to experimental strategies used in cell biology research. Requires discussion of scientific literature and student-led presentations. Prerequisite(s): course 110. Enrollment restricted to senior human biology, molecular, cell, and developmental biology, and neuroscience majors. Other majors by permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 30. M. Rexach
117. Global Health and Neglected Diseases (3 credits). W
Neglected tropical diseases afflict more than 1 billion of the poorest individuals on the planet. This course covers the molecular basis and pathology of the most prevalent neglected diseases and emerging strategies to combat these diseases. (Formerly Neglected Tropical Diseases.) Prerequisite(s): course 110. Enrollment restricted to senior human biology, molecular, cell, and developmental biology, and neuroscience majors. Other majors by permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 30. W. Sullivan
118. Pathogenesis: Molecular Mechanisms of Disease. *
Overview of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying human disease at the physiological and molecular levels, with their implications for epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment. Includes discussion of clinical cases and of emerging areas of research. Geared toward students interested in future research or clinical careers in the area of human or animal health. Students cannot receive credit for this course and Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology 238. (Also offered as Microbiol & Environ Toxicology 138. Students cannot receive credit for both courses.) Prerequisite(s): Biology 130. Enrollment restricted to students majoring in biology; human biology; molecular, cell and developmental biology; biochemistry and molecular biology; or neuroscience. Offered in alternate academic years. M. Camps
120. Developmental Biology. W
A description and analysis of selected developmental events in the life cycle of animals. Experimental approaches to understanding mechanisms are emphasized. (Formerly Development.) Prerequisite(s): course 110. Z. Wang
120L. Development Laboratory. W
Experimental studies of animal development using a variety of locally obtainable organisms. Approximately eight hours weekly, but it will often be necessary to monitor continuing experiments throughout the week. Students are billed a materials fee. Enrollment restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors; biology minors; other majors by permission. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L; satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Previous or concurrent enrollment in BIOL 120 is required. J. Lee
121L. Environmental Phage Biology Laboratory. F,S
Introduction to hypothesis-driven laboratory research. Students isolate a unique bacteriophage and characterize its structure and genome. An understanding of molecular biology and basic genetics required. Students are billed a materials fee. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 100K; satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Enrollment restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors with sophomore standing or higher. Enrollment by application and permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 20. The Staff
125. Introduction to Neuroscience. F
The structure and function of the nervous system. Topics include elementary electrical principles, biophysics and physiology of single nerve and muscle cells, signal transduction at synapses, development of the nervous system, and neural basis of behavior. Requires a good understanding of basic biochemistry, cell biology, and molecular biology. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 20A, BIOE 20B; and BIOL 101 or BIOC 100A; previous or concurrent enrollment in BIOL 110 is required. J. Ackman
126. Advanced Molecular Neuroscience. W,S
Explores in detail cellular and molecular events that underlay the function of the nervous system. Topics include neural development, axon guidance and regeneration, advanced electrical principles (synaptic transmission through a variety of receptors), synaptic plasticity, learning and memory, as well as several neural disorders. Students cannot receive credit for this course and course 226. Prerequisite(s): Course 125. Enrollment restricted to neuroscience majors and proposed majors. (General Education Code(s): TA.) Y. Zuo, D. Feldheim
127. Mechanisms of Neurodegenerative Disease. S
Focuses on cellular and molecular processes that underlie neurodegenerative diseases. Includes lectures, student oral presentations, discussions, a term paper, and exams. Prerequisite(s):course 110. (General Education Code(s): TA.) W. Saxton
128. Developmental Neurobiology. W
Covers the principles of nervous-system development from the molecular control of development, cell-cell interactions, to the role of experience in influencing brain structure and function. Students cannot receive credit for this course and course 228. Prerequisite(s): courses 110 and 125. Enrollment is restricted to juniors and seniors. B. Chen
130. Human Physiology. F,W
Function, organization, and regulation of the major organ systems of humans, with emphasis on integration among systems. Students cannot receive credit for this course and course 131. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 110. G. Ruben
130L. Human Physiology Laboratory (2 credits). F,W
Examines fundamental principles of systemic physiology focusing on the human. Students cannot receive credit for this course and BIOE 131L. Students are billed a materials fee. Enrollment is restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors; biology minors; other majors by permission. Prerequisite(s): Satisfaction of Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements; BIOL 110; previous or concurrent enrollment in BIOL130 is required. G. Ruben
178L. Protocols in Stem Cell Biology. *
Provides hands-on experience in embryonic stem cell culture methods and techniques. Students grow and passage mouse embryonic stem (mES) cells and perform established protocols that differentiate mES cells into cardiac muscle cells and neurons. Enrollment restricted to biological sciences and affiliated majors; biology minors; non-majors by permission. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 100K; satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements; previous or concurrent enrollment in course 178. Enrollment limited to 16. The Staff
186F. Undergraduate Research in MCD Biology (2 credits). F,W,S
Supervised undergraduate research in laboratory of an MCD biology faculty member accompanied by weekly lectures on ethical and practical scientific issues. Topics include: laboratory safety; the scientific method; the collection, treatment, and presentation of data; critical evaluation of scientific literature; scientific misconduct; and peer review. Career issues, including how to apply for admission to graduate and professional schools, is also discussed. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L. Each enrolled student must have a committed MCD faculty sponsor by the first class meeting. Enrollment restricted to biology and affiliated majors. May be repeated for credit. M. Rexach, Y. Zuo, H. Boeger
186L. Undergraduate Research in MCD Biology. F,W,S
Supervised undergraduate research in laboratory of an MCD biology faculty member accompanied by weekly lectures on ethical and practical scientific issues. Topics include: laboratory safety; the scientific method; the collection, treatment, and presentation of data; critical evaluation of scientific literature; scientific misconduct; and peer review. Career issues, including how to apply for admission to graduate and professional schools, are also discussed. Prerequisite(s): Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements; BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L. Each enrolled student must have a committed MCD faculty sponsor by the first class meeting. Enrollment restricted to biology and affiliated majors. M. Rexach, Y. Zuo, H. Boeger
186R. Undergraduate Research in MCD Biology. F,W,S
Supervised undergraduate research in the laboratory of an MCD biology faculty member accompanied by weekly lectures on practical scientific issues. Topics include: laboratory safety; the scientific method; the collection, treatment, and presentation of data; critical evaluation of scientific literature; ethics and scientific misconduct; and peer review. Career issues, including how to apply for admission to graduate and professional schools, are discussed. Students cannot receive credit for this course and course 186L. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 100 or BIOC 100A; and BIOL 100K or BIOL 20L or BIOL 101L; previous completion of the Disciplinary Communication requirement. Each enrolled student must have a committed MCD faculty sponsor by the first class. Enrollment restricted to majors. May be repeated for credit. M. Rexach, Y. Zuo, H. Boeger
188. A Life in Medicine (3 credits). F,S
Students explore healthcare from the perspectives of both clinicians and patients. The class focuses on medicine's cognitive, emotional, and spiritual elements, with the goal of understanding the rewards and costs of healthcare practice. (Formerly Life in Healthcare.) Enrollment restricted to junior and senior human biology majors, and others by permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 30. (General Education Code(s): PR-E.) The Staff
189. Health Sciences Internship (3 credits). F,W,S
Structured off-campus learning experience providing experience and pre-professional mentoring in a variety of health-related settings. Interns are trained and supervised by a professional at their placement and receive academic guidance from their faculty sponsor. Students spend 8 hours per week at their placement, participate in required class meetings on campus, and keep a reflective journal. Enrollment by application. Students interview with health sciences internship coordinator; applications are due one quarter in advance to the Health Sciences Internship Office. Prerequisite(s): satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements; concurrent enrollment in course 189W is required. Enrollment restricted to human biology majors. L. Hinck, M. Rexach, M. Zuniga
189W. Disciplinary Communication: Human Biology (2 credits). F,W,S
Writing-intensive course offered in conjunction with the health sciences internship. Weekly class meetings include academic guidance and mentoring as well as discussion of the mechanisms and conventions of academic writing about heath and health care. Students complete multiple writing assignments, culminating in a term paper in the format of a scholarly article. Enrollment by application. Students interview with the health-sciences internship coordinator; applications are due one quarter in advance to the Health Care Sciences Internship Office. Prerequisite(s): satisfaction of the Entry Level Writing and Composition requirements. Previous or concurrent enrollment in course 189 is required. Enrollment restricted to human biology majors. L. Hinck, M. Rexach, M. Zuniga
191. ACE Program Service Learning (2 credits). F
Students participate in training and development to co-facilitate collaborative learning in ACE chemistry discussion sections and midterm/exam review sessions. Students are role models for students pursuing science- and math-intensive majors. Prerequisite(s): Prior participation in ACE; good academic standing; no non-passing grades in prior quarter. Enrollment restricted to sophomores, juniors, and seniors. (Formerly course 182.) Enrollment limited to 10. (General Education Code(s): PR-S.) The Staff
195. Senior Thesis Research. F,W,S
An individually supervised course, with emphasis on independent research, to culminate in a senior thesis. Students submit petition to sponsoring agency. May be repeated for credit. The Staff
198. Independent Field Study. F,W,S
Provides for individual programs of study (a) by means other than the usual supervision in person, or (b) when the student is doing all or most of the coursework off campus. With permission of the department, may be repeated for credit, or two or three courses taken concurrently. Students submit petition to sponsoring agency. May be repeated for credit. The Staff
198F. Independent Field Study (2 credits). F,W,S
Provides for two credits of independent field study (a) by means other than the usual supervision in person, or (b) when the student is doing all or most of the coursework off campus. Students submit petition to sponsoring agency. May be repeated for credit. The Staff
199. Tutorial. F,W,S
Reading, discussion, written reports, and laboratory research on selected biological topics, using facilities normally available on campus. Students submit petition to sponsoring agency. May be repeated for credit. The Staff
199F. Tutorial (2 credits). F,W,S
Two-credit Tutorial. Reading, discussion, written reports, and laboratory research on selected biological topics, using facilities normally available on campus. Students submit petition to sponsoring agency. May be repeated for credit. The Staff
Graduate Courses
200A. Critical Analysis of Scientific Literature. F
Development of critical thinking skills via discussion of research articles on a broad range of topics. Prepares students to critically evaluate research publications, and improves their ability to organize effective oral presentations and to evaluate the oral presentations of other scientists. Enrollment restricted to graduate students in MCD biology, or by permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 20. J. Sanford, J. Tamkun
200B. Advanced Molecular Biology. F
An in-depth coverage of the structure, function, and synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins. Discussion of the roles of macromolecules in the regulation of information in the cell. Prerequisite(s): Enrollment restricted to graduate students. A. Zahler, H. Boeger, M. Jurica
200C. Advanced Cell Biology. W
An in-depth coverage of topics in cellular and subcellular organization, structure, and function in plants and animals. Emphasis on current research problems. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 200B. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. D. Kellogg, N. Bhalla, W. Saxton
200D. Developmental Biology. S
Key topics in developmental biology, including developmental genetics, epigenetics, stem cell biology, and developmental neurobiology. Lectures are accompanied by critical analysis and discussion of recent publications. Enrollment restricted to graduate students in MCD biology, or by permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 20. S. Strome, Z. Wang, B. Chen
201. RNA Processing. *
An advanced graduate-level course on biological aspects of RNA function and processing in eukaryotes. Lectures and discussions will be developed using the current literature. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 200B or permission of instructor. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Enrollment limited to 15. M. Jurica, M. Ares
203. Ribosomes and Translation. *
Covers the field of ribosome research in depth, including the structure and function of ribosomes and the molecular mechanisms of protein synthesis. Begins with historical review of the ribosome field and proceeds to the most recent findings. Focus is on central questions: (1) How is the accuracy of the aminoacyl-tRNA selection determined? (2) What is "accommodation"? (3) What is the mechanism of peptide bond formation (peptidyl transferase)? (4) What is the mechanism of translocation? (5) What are the mechanistic roles of the ribosome and translation factor EF-G in translocation? (6) To what extent is the mechanism of translation determined by RNA? (7) Why is RNA so well suited for the ribosome? (8) How did translation evolve from an RNA world? Prerequisite(s): BIOC 100A,BIOL 200B or permission of instructor. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. The Staff
204. Chromatin. *
Eukaryotic DNA is complexed with histones to form chromatin. This course focuses on the ways in which chromatin influences and is manipulated to regulate gene expression. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 105 and BIOL 115; undergrads by permission of instructor. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Enrollment limited to 15. Offered in alternate academic years. J. Tamkun, G. Hartzog
205. Epigenetics. *
In-depth coverage of epigenetics focusing on how alterations in chromatin structure and DNA methylation establish and maintain heritable states of gene expression. Lectures are supplemented with critical discussion of recent publications. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 105 and BIOL 115, or permission of instructor. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Enrollment limited to 20. S. Strome, J. Tamkun
206. Introduction to Stem Cell Biology. *
Fundamental concepts, experimental approaches, and current advances in stem cell biology, with consideration of key ethical issues. Topics include: self-renewal and differentiation; the microenvironment; epigenetics; cell-cycle regulation; and how basic research translates to medical therapeutics. Ethical, moral, and political issues surrounding stem cell research are discussed with lectures from philosophy and other relevant disciplines. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Enrollment limited to 15. W. Sullivan
206L. Current Protocols in Stem Cell Biology. *
Provides students with hands-on experience in embryonic stem cell culture methods. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll by permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. Y. Zuo, D. Feldheim
208. Cellular Signaling Mechanisms. *
All eukaryotic cells utilize intricate signaling pathways to control such diverse events as cell-cell communication, cell division, and changes in cell morphology. This course covers the molecular basis of these cellular signaling pathways, focusing on the most current research. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 105, BIOL 110, and BIOL 115. Enrollment restricted to seniors and graduate students. Enrollment limited to 15. Offered in alternate academic years. D. Kellogg
214. Advances in Cancer Biology. *
Provides students with knowledge of the latest concepts in cancer biology and cancer therapeutics, and a general appreciation of the rapid advances being made in this area of biomedicine. Prerequisite(s): course 200B or by permission of instructor. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Enrollment limited to 15. L. Hinck
215. Applied Statistics for Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology. *
For experimental biologists: focuses on resolving practical statistical issues typically encountered in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology lab research. No prior experience in statistics or programming is necessary. Enrollment restricted to graduate students in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. Enrollment limited to 20. The Staff
217. Influence of Environment and Experience on Brain Development. W
How environmental factors (animals' experiences, environmental toxins, etc.) affect the formation of neuronal circuits and brain function. Lectures and discussions use current literature. Prerequisite(s): courses 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D, or by permission of the instructor. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students. Enrollment limited to 10. Y. Zuo, D. Smith
226. Advanced Molecular Neuroscience. W,S
Basis of neural behavior at the cellular, molecular and system levels. First half of course focuses on cellular, molecular, and developmental aspects of the nervous system and covers two sensory systems: olfaction and auditory. Last half of course concerns higher-level functions of the nervous system, such as processing and integrating information. Discusses human diseases and disorders. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Y. Zuo
228. Developmental Neurobiology. W
Covers the principles of nervous-system development from the molecular control of development, and cell-cell interactions, to the role of experience in influencing brain structure and function. Students cannot receive credit for this course and course 128. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students and by permission of the instructor. B. Chen
280A. Topics in Research on Molecular Genetics of Yeast (2 credits). F,W,S
Intensive research seminar on the structure and function of the gene expression machinery in the simple eukaryote Saccharomyces cervisiae and its relationship to the human gene expression machinery. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with approval of instructor. May be repeated for credit. M. Ares
280B. Chromatin Structure and Transcriptional Regulation (2 credits). F,W,S
Weekly seminar on structure and gene regulatory function of chromatin. Discusses research of participants and relevant scientific literature. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. H. Boeger
280C. Mammalian Brain Development (2 credits). F,W,S
Seminar covers research into the development of the mammalian brain. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. B. Chen
280D. RNA Processing (2 credits). F,W,S
A discussion of current research and literature concerning the regulation of precursor messenger RNA processing. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. A. Zahler
280E. Meiotic Chromosome Dynamics (2 credits). F,W,S
Intensive course on the molecular mechanisms underlying homolog pairing, synapses, and recombination; and how they are regulated, coordinated, and monitored to ensure accurate meiotic chromosome segregation. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit. N. Bhalla
280F. Development of Vertebrate Neural Connections (2 credits). F,W,S
Intensive research seminar on molecular mechanisms by which neural connections are established during mouse development. Special focus on topographic maps and role of Eph receptors and ephrins in this process. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit. D. Feldheim
280G. Physiology of the Developing Brain (2 credits). F,W,S
Research seminar covering circuit structure and function in the developing brain. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll by permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. J. Ackman
280H. Topics on Research into Chromatin and Transcription (2 credits). F,W,S
Seminar covering research into the effects of chromatin on transcription in yeast. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. G. Hartzog
280I. Epigenetic Gene Silencing and Insulators (2 credits). F,W,S
Intensive course on molecular mechanisms by which insulator elements regulate epigenetic gene silencing. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit. R. Kamakaka
280J. Structures of Macromolecular Complexes (2 credits). F,W,S
Focuses on structure and function of the spliceosome using electron microscopy and x-ray crystallography. Participants present results from their own research and relevant journal articles. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 20. May be repeated for credit. M. Jurica
280K. Topics in Cell Cycle Research (2 credits). F,W,S
An intensive seminar focusing on current research on the molecular mechanisms that control cell division. Participants are required to present results of their own research or to review journal articles of interest. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. D. Kellogg
280L. Development (2 credits). F,W,S
Seminar covering research into breast development and cancer. (Formerly Topics on Neural Development.) Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Enrollment limited to 12. May be repeated for credit. L. Hinck
280M. Post-Transcriptional Control of Mammalian Gene Expression (2 credits). F,W,S
Intensive course on the molecular mechanisms by which RNA binding proteins regulate gene expression. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with the permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 8. May be repeated for credit. J. Sanford
280N. Long Noncoding RNA and the Immune System (2 credits). F,W,S
Weekly seminar discussion of the current research and literature concerning the functions for long noncoding RNA in gene regulation within inflammatory signaling pathways. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll by permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. S. Carpenter
280O. Topics in Bacterial Pathogenesis (2 credits). F,W,S
Intensive seminar focusing on mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis of the ulcer-causing bacterium Helicobacter pylori. Participants are required to present results from their own research and relevant journal articles. (Also offered as Microbiol & Environ Toxicology 281O. Students cannot receive credit for both courses.) Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 20. May be repeated for credit. K. Ottemann
280Q. Cell Biology of Oocytes, Embryos, and Neurons (2 credits). F,W,S
Weekly seminar and round-table discussion about research problems and recent advances in molecular motor proteins, cytoskeletons, and the control of force-producing processes. Each participant reports recent advances in their field from current literature, their own primary research questions, current approaches to answering those questions, and their research progress. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. W. Saxton
280R. Gene regulation in C. elegans and human parasitic namtodes (2 credits). F,W,S
Intense weekly seminar on the mechanisms of gene regulation, focusing on C. elegans and human parasitic nematodes. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with the permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. J. Ward
280S. Chromatin and RNA Regulation in C. elegans (2 credits). F,W,S
Intensive research seminar about regulators of chromatin organization; the composition and function of germ granules; and the roles of both levels of regulation in germline development in C. elegans. Participants present their research results and report on related journal articles. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. S. Strome
280T. Molecular Biology of Drosophila Development (2 credits). F,W,S
An intensive seminar concerning the molecular genetics of Drosophila. Recent research is discussed weekly, with an emphasis on gene regulation and development. Students present their own research or critical reviews of recent articles at least once during the quarter. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. J. Tamkun
280U. Discussions on the Development of the Drosophila Embryo (2 credits). F,W,S
Involves a two-hour weekly meeting in which the students discuss topics concerning the cell cycle, early embryonic development, and the cytoskeleton. These discussions critically evaluate ongoing research in this area. Material is drawn from student research and recently published journal articles. Students are also expected to meet individually with the instructor two hours weekly. In addition to a three–five page research proposal, each student gives two one-hour oral presentations. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit. W. Sullivan
280W. Membrane Proteins (2 credits). F
Seminar on recent research on membrane proteins, with an emphasis on ion-pumping ATPase. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; qualified undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 20. May be repeated for credit. B. Bowman
280Y. Activity-Dependent Synaptic Plasticity (2 credits). F,W,S
Research seminar covering the regulation of synaptic plasticity in the mammalian nervous system, focusing on how the activity regulates the structural and functional dynamics of synapses. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll with permission of instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. Y. Zuo
280Z. Prostate Development and Cancer Biology (2 credits). F,W,S
Weekly research seminar covering gene regulation, cellular interactions, and stem cell behaviors in mammalian prostate development and prostate cancer progression. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll by the permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 10. May be repeated for credit. Z. Wang
288. Teaching Assistant Training (2 credits). F
Prepares graduate students to help teach university science courses. Weekly class sessions include activities and interactive discussions of diverse modes of learning, diverse ways of teaching, peer instruction, assessment of learning, equity and inclusion, and professional ethics. Students also visit an active learning class and an active learning discussion section at UCSC, then write evaluations of the teaching strategies used in those classes. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students. S. Strome, M. Jurica
289. Practice of Science. W
Examination of ethical and practical scientific issues, including the collection and treatment of data, attribution of credit, plagiarism, fraud, and peer review. Career issues, including how to apply for grants and positions in industry or academia, will be discussed. Prerequisite(s): BIOL 200A, BIOL 200B, and BIOL 200C or permission of instructor. Enrollment restricted to graduate students; undergraduates may enroll with permission of the instructor. Enrollment limited to 20. W. Saxton
290. Career Planning (2 credits). S
An important goal of graduate programs is to train students for diverse careers. Exposes molecular cell and developmental biology graduate students to diverse career options and helps them develop individual development plans to target their graduate training to their selected career goals. Enrollment is restricted to graduate students. N. Bhalla
291. Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology Seminar (2 credits). F,W,S
Topics of current interest in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology are presented weekly by graduate students, faculty, and guest speakers. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. Enrollment limited to 60. May be repeated for credit. D. Feldheim
292. MCD Seminar (no credit). F,W,S
Various topics by weekly guest speakers. Enrollment restricted to graduate students. D. Feldheim
296. Laboratory Research in Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology. F,W,S
Independent laboratory research in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. Students submit petition to sponsoring agency. May be repeated for credit. The Staff
297. Independent Study. F,W,S
Independent study for graduate students who have not yet settled on a research area for their thesis. Students submit petition to sponsoring agency. The Staff
299. Thesis Research. F,W,S
Students submit petition to sponsoring agency. The Staff
Revised: 09/01/17
