We have compiled a list of courses offered by each department that may be of interest to first year graduate students. We try to be comprehensive but it is always best to check websites of individual programs for the most up-to-date course information. To see the Spring 2012 Courses click here.
Fall 2011 Courses
BCB 710 BIOINFORMATICS COLLOQUIUM (1). Required for First 4 Semesters. M 4:30-5:30pm. Bondurant 2035.
BCB 716 BIOINFORMATICS AND SEQUENCE ANALYSIS (1). This module introduces foundational statistical concepts and models that motivate a wide range of analytic methods in bioinformatics, statistical genetics, statistical genomics, and related fields. Students are expected to know single-variable calculus (differentiation and integration in 1 dimension), be familiar with matrix algebra and have some programming experience. The course will include material on partial differentiation of multiparameter functions, and use the statistical package R extensively. Familiarity with these will be an advantage but is not assumed. Wang, Vision. TTH 11-12:15pm. Course meets from Nov 1-Dec 6.
BCB 720 INTRODUCTION TO STATISTICAL MODELING (2). I actually need to ask the instructor for a revised description, but I haven’t made it that far yet. It likely won’t change tremendously from this, but if I get a new one I’ll try to remember to send. This module is designed to introduce students to concepts and methods in the comparative analysis of nucleic acid and protein sequences, including sequence alignment, homology search, phylogenetics and genome assembly. Valdar. MW 9-10:15am. Course meets from Aug 24-Oct 31.
BIOC 601 ENZYME PROPERTIES, MECHANISMS AND REGULATION (3). Prerequisite, CHEM 430, equivalent, or permission of instructor. Focuses on how the shapes of enzymes are designed to optimize the catalytic step and become allosterically modified to regulate activity, on the sources and evolution of transition state stabilization by enzymes, and on the design of artificial enzymes. Trout (course director), Wolfenden. MWF 10–10:50am.
BIOC 631 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY I (BIOL 631, GNET 631, MCRO 631, PHCO 631) (3). Prerequisites, undergraduate courses in biochemistry and genetics. DNA structure, function and interactions in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, including chromosome structure, replication, recombination, repair and genome fluidity. Three lecture hours a week. Sancar (course director). MWF 9–9:50am.
BIOC 643 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND GROWTH CONTROL I (CBIO 643, MCRO 643, PHCO 643) (3). Prerequisite, undergraduate cell biology/biochemistry or permission of instructor. Systematic coverage of major topics in cell biology including membrane structure, membrane trafficking, cytoskeleton, cell motility, and extracellular matrix. The class includes lectures as well as small group discussions of research papers. Alberts et al. is the required text. Cheney (course director) staff. MWF 2–2:50pm.
BIOC 649 MATHEMATICS AND MACROMOLECULES (1.5). Prerequisites, permission of course director. The course is primarily designed for students who need more background in mathematics and macromolecules before taking the core biophysics modules, BIOC 650, 651 and 652. This course will focus on the application of mathematics to topics important in biophysics, such as thermodynamics and electrostatics. Fall. Berkowitz (course director).
BIOC 650 BASIC PRINCIPLES: FROM BASIC MODELS TO COLLECTIONS OF MACROMOLECULES (1.5). Prerequisites, CHEM 430 and two semesters of physical chemistry or permission of the instructor. Basic molecular models and their use in developing statistical descriptions of macromolecular function. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Lentz (course director).
BIOC 651 MACROMOLECULAR EQUILIBRIA: CONFORMATION CHANGE AND BINDING (1.5). Prerequisites, CHEM 430 and two semesters of physical chemistry or permission of the instructor. Macromolecules as viewed with modern computational methods. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Lentz (course director), Papoian.
BIOC 652 MACROMOLECULAR EQUILIBRIA (1.5). Prerequisites, CHEM 430 and two semesters of physical chemistry or permission of the instructor. Stability of macromolecules and their complexes with other molecules. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Lentz (course director), Dokholyan. MWF 11–11:50am.
BIOC 701 CRITICAL ANALYSIS IN BIOCHEMISTRY (2). Prerequisites, permission of course director. Critical analysis of current research in conjunction with biochemistry faculty and departmental seminar series. Students select and present research papers, lead discussions, attend seminars and meet with seminar speakers. Course provides an opportunity to become familiar with departmental research as well as state-of-the-art and standard laboratory techniques. Lunch with external seminar speakers. Fried (course director). M 12–1:30pm.
BIOC 702 TEACHING IN BIOCHEMISTRY (2). Permission required of course director. Students should be 1st year BBSP students or 2nd year Biochemistry students who want to gain instruction and experience learning how to teach biochemistry. Students will gain experience leading small group session and may present a lecture to undergraduates. Fall. Toews (course director).
BIOC 703 TEACHING IN BIOCHEMISTRY (2). Permission required of course director. Students should be 1st year BBSP students or 2nd year Biochemistry students who want to gain instruction and experience learning how to teach biochemistry. Students will gain experience leading small group session and may present a lecture to undergraduates. Spring. Toews (course director).
BIOL 514 EVOLUTION AND DEVELOPMENT (3). The course examines the mechanisms by which organisms are built and evolve. In particular, it examines how novel and complex traits and organisms arise from interactions among genes and cells. Goldstein, B., Pfennig, D. TTH 11-12:15 pm. Wilson 202.
BIOL 527 SPECIAL TOPICS QUANTITATIVE BIOLOGY (3). Laederach, A. TTH 3:30-4:45 pm. Wilson 218.
BIOL 527L (1). Laederach, A. T 5-5:50 pm. Wilson 218.
BIOL 535 MOLECULAR BIOLOGY TECHNIQUES (4). Stafford, D. TH 1-4:50 pm. Wilson 130.
BIOL 621 PRINCIPLES OF GENETIC ANALYSIS 1 (3). See GNET 621 for course description.
BIOL 624 DEVELOPMENTAL GENETICS (3). This is a one semester course designed to give an overview of concepts and processes important in development, and to address some of the important questions and issues in the field today. The focus is on genetic and molecular approaches to understanding animal development, using a variety of model organisms to illustrate these approaches. We combine lecture (approximately 70% of the course time) with selected readings of papers and subsequent discussion (approximately 30% of the course time). This course is designed for first or second year graduate students wanting to better understand developmental processes. It covers basic developmental concepts, with a special focus on areas such as development of the nervous system; development of heart and blood vessels; and stem cells. Bautch V. TTH 2–3:15pm. Wilson 218.
BIOL 631 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (3). See GNET 631 for course description.
BIOL 639 PLANT CELL BIOLOGY (3). The class will cover topics in plant biology, including developmental patterning, signal transduction, and responses of plants to other organisms and to environmental conditions. The class will meet in a seminar format once per week, with students presenting and discussing recent papers from the literature. We will have an organizational meeting on Wednesday, August 24th at 12:00 in 119 Coker Hall. Please contact Jason Reed (jreed@email.unc.edu) if you cannot attend the organizational meeting or for further information. W 12-12:50 pm.
BIOL 643 MOLECULAR CYTOSKELOTON (3). Organizational Meeting: Tuesday, August 23rd, 11:00 am, Fordham Hall, 5th Floor. Conference Room. This seminar focuses on molecular mechanisms of cytoskeletal components. The course will examine the actin cytoskeleton and the microtubule cytoskeleton. A sample of topics include 1) the core building blocks: actin and tubulin; 2) nucleators: Arp2/3 and gamma tubulin/gamma-TuRC/Augmin; 3) motors: myosin, kinesin and dynein; 4) regulators: formins and microtubule plus end binding proteins; 5) destabilizers: KinI and stathmin; and 6) kinetochore-microtubule attachments complexes: the Dam1 and Ndc80 complexes. Primary literature will be examined, presented and critiqued. Each topic will examine a molecular/mechanistic paper and a complementary cell biology paper that correlates structure with mechanism. Emerging techniques in cell biology and structure will be discussed including single molecule fluorescent techniques (PALM, FIONA, speckle microscopy), optical trapping, single particle electron microscopy, x-ray crystallography and small angle X-ray scattering. The course is intended to familiarize cell biologists with molecular mechanisms and protein structure, promoting proficiency in viewing, evaluating and presenting structure models using molecular graphics programs in order to design and implement structure-based experiments. The seminar aims to develop presentation skills, scientific writing, as well as manuscript evaluation and critique. If you cannot make the organizational meeting and are interested in taking the course, please email Kevin Slep at kslep@bio.unc.edu.
CBIO 643 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND GROWTH CONTROL I (Supercell) (BIOC 643, MCRO 643, PHCO 643) (3). Prerequisite, undergraduate cell biology or biochemistry or permission of the instructor. Comprehensive introduction to cell structure, function and transformation. Cheney. The course meets MWF 2-2:50pm. Taylor Hall 124.
CBIO 891A CONTEMPORARY PROBLEMS (3). Prerequisite, permission of the instructor. Analysis of grant proposals dealing with advanced topics in modern cell biology and/or developmental biology. Bankaitis. Time: TBD.
CBIO 893 ADVANCED CELL BIOLOGY I (4). Literature based discussion course on the application of modern approaches from multiple disciplines in Cell Biology. Emphasis is on small group discussion and dissection of primary literature including methods, scientific logic, and critical thinking. Maximum of 12 students are allowed in the class. Students not currently in Cell & Developmental Biology Department who are interested in this course should contact the course director prior to registering. Hammond. TTH 3-5:30pm. MBRB 6201.
CHEM 430 INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY (3).*The study of cellular processes including catalysts, metabolism, bioenergetics and biochemical genetics. The structure and function of biological macromolecules involved in these processes is emphasized. Hogan. TR 8–9:15 am. Chapman 201. * For students with no prior coursework in Biochemistry.
CHEM 431 MACROMOLECULAR STRUCTURE AND METABOLISM (3).** Structure of DNA and methods in biotechnology; DNA replication and rep¬air; RNA structure, synthesis, localization and transcriptional reputation; protein structure/function, biosynthesis, modification, localization, and degradation. Erie, Pielak. TR 11–12:15pm. Chapman 211.
CHEM 732 ADVANCES IN MACROMOLECULAR STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION (3).**** In-depth analysis of the structure-function relationships that govern fundamental biological processes including replication, translation, RNA processing, motility and movement, and cell surface interactions. Pielak. TR 8–9:15 am. Venable G307. ** For students who would like to strengthen their basic knowledge of Biochemistry. **** Strongly recommended for BBSP students interested in Biochemistry & Chemical Biology.
GNET 621 PRINCIPLES OF GENETIC ANALYSIS 1 (BIOL 621) (3). Fundamental principles of genetic analysis including mitosis and meiosis, linkage and mapping, recombination, mutagenesis, complementation, epistasis, bacterial genetics, transposable elements, genetics of mosaics, forward and reverse genetic techniques and genetic screening, genetic dissection of biochemical and signal transduction pathways, and gene cloning. Sekelsky. TTH 11-12:15pm. Wilson 128. Recitation: F 2-2:50pm.
GNET 631 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY I (BIOC 631, BIOL 631, MCRO 631, PHCO 631) (3). DNA structure, function, and interactions in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems, including chromosome structure, replication, recombination, repair, and genome fluidity. Three lecture hours a week. Sancar. MWF 9-9:50am.
MCRO 614 IMMUNOBIOLOGY (3). Prerequisites, a strong background in molecular biology, eukaryotic genetics, and biochemistry. Topics include immunochemistry; genetic mechanisms, and development of cells and cell interactions; hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, resistance to infection. Collins, Klapper, Liu. MWF 11-11:50 am. CN 09 (tentative).
MCRO 615 SPECIAL TOPICS IN MICROBIOLOGY OR IMMUNOLOGY (1). This has been set up as an extra hour of MCRO 614 for MCRO students or students who plan to become MCRO students. Collins. F 3–4:00pm.
MCRO 630 VIROLOGY (3). Prerequisites, molecular biology and cell biology. Current concepts of the chemistry, structure, replication, genetics, and natural history of animal viruses and their host cells. Fall. Pickles, Bachenheimer, staff. MWF 10-10:50 am. MEJ 802.
MCRO 635 MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS I (3). Prerequisites, coursework in molecular biology and genetics, and permission of the instructor. Topics will include aspects of basic bacteriology as well as bacterial and fungal pathogens and mechanisms of disease. Cotter. TTH 10:45-12:00pm. MEJ 802.
MCRO 711 SEMINAR/TUTORIAL IN ANIMAL VIROLOGY (var.). One or two faculty and a small number of students consider current research of importance in depth. Emphasis is on current literature, invited speakers, etc., rather than textbooks. Abel. Prerequisites: a basic virology course and preferably also a basic immunology course. T 2–4:00pm.
MEDC 805 MOLECULAR MODELING (3). Prerequisites, MATH 231–232, CHEM 481, permission of the instructor. Introduction to computer-assisted molecular design (CAMD) of small molecules. Emphasis on the practical use of molecular and quantum mechanics programs (MM2, MNDO, GAUSSIAN). Two lecture and three to four laboratory hours a week. Tropsha. TBA.
MEDC 807 FOUNDATIONS OF CHEMICAL BIOLOGY: ORGANIC AND MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY (3). Prerequisite, CHEM 262 or equivalent. Elements of organic chemistry required for the design and synthesis of biologically active compounds. Lawrence. TBA.
MEDC 833 MOLECULAR TARGET-BASED DRUG DELIVERY (3). PrerequisitesCHEM 62, Physiology 93, Physiology 140, or equivalent, and instructor permission. Rational drug design for cellular targeting for disease therapy. Jarstfer. MWF 11-11:50pm. Beard 102.
MEDC 842 THERAPEUTIC PROTEINS (3). Prerequisites, PHCY 421, PHCY 422. This course covers the discovery, development, mechanism, and clinical use of protein therapeutics. Bastow. TTH 9-10:15am. Beard 105.
MOPH 862 ADVANCED PHARMACEUTICS (3). This course covers industrial approaches to pharmaceutical formulation development. Cho. MW 10-11:15pm. Beard 105.
MOPH 738 NANOMEDICINE (3). This course offers an introduction to the interdisciplinary field of nanomedicine for students with physical, chemical or biological sciences background. This course will emphasize emerging nanotechnologies and biomedical applications including nanaomaterials, nanoengineering, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, nano-based imaging and diagnostic systems, nanotoxicology, and translating nanomedicines into clinical investigation. Mumper, Juliano. TTH 4–5:15pm. Beard 102.
PHCY 801 ETHICAL DILEMMAS IN RESEARCH (1). Ethical dilemmas in pharmaceutical research will be discussed. Issues include scientific fraud, dishonesty, misrepresentation of data, conflict of interest, new basic scientific research areas and dissemination of confidential information. Dressler. T 1–2pm. (course part of the MOPH course offerings)
MOPH 899 SEMINAR IN MOLECULAR PHARMACEUTICS (1). This seminar series comprises a variety of research topics presented by MOPH division researchers and visiting scientists. W 4-5:00pm. Beard 116.
NBIO 722 CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY (PHYI 722, PHCO 722) (2); comprised of 6 blocks (MWF 10-12:00pm)
BLOCK 1: INTRODUCTORY MATERIAL & DEVELOPMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY (722A) (16 SESSIONS) (Neurobiology 722A).This introductory block covers basic molecular biology, as applied to neurons, and an overview of developmental neurobiology. Manis, Crews, and faculty.
BLOCK 2: NEUROTRANSMITTER RECEPTORS (722B) (11 SESSIONS) This block considers membrane receptor molecules activated by neurotransmitters in the nervous system, with emphasis on ligand binding behavior and molecular and functional properties of different classes of receptors. Manis, Hodge and faculty.
BLOCK 3: ELECTRICAL SIGNALING (722C) (12 SESSIONS) This block considers the genesis of electrical impulses in the nervous system with an emphasis on membrane potentials, voltage-gated and mechanically-gated ion channels, and structural features of neurons that influence coding. Manis, Sealock and faculty.
NBIO 729 NEURAL INFORMATION PROCESSING (3). This discussion/reading seminar covers the fundamentals of nervous system information processing and integration, with examples from sensory systems. Information processing is examined from the level of single cells through networks. Topics include spiking models of neurons, dynamical systems at the single cell level, theoretical analyses of synaptic plasticity, analysis of spike trains, concepts of information theory, neural networks, and emergent properties of neural networks. Readings will be from the primary literature. Prerequisites include at least 1 year of calculus, familiarity with MATLAB or Python (or permission of the instructor), and NBIO 722/723 (or an equivalent general neuroscience course). Manis.
NBIO 800 GENE-BRAIN-BEHAVIOR INTERACTIONS IN NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS: TOWARDS AN INTEGRATION OF PERSPECTIVES ON DISEASE MECHANISMS (2). This seminar examines the topics of genetics, neuroanatomy, physiology, and behavioral development to provide a broad-based and integrated background to understand the etiology and potential mechanism underlying neurodevelopmental disorders. Fall and Spring. Philpot and Piven.
NBIO 801 CLINICAL SYNDROMES & NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS (2). This seminar will review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of neurodevelopmental syndromes and disorders. Topics will range from single gene (e.g. fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis) to complex genetic (e.g., autism, schizophrenia), to environmental disorders with varied phenotypes, pathogenetic mechanisms, and treatments. Fall and Spring. Philpot and Piven.
NBIO 850 COMMUNICATING SCIENTIFIC RESULTS (1). See PHYI 705 for course descriptions.
OBIO 710,712 DISCUSSIONS IN ORAL BIOLOGY (Seminar) (1). A series of seminars on topics relevant to research and scientific knowledge in the field of oral biology. Current Trainees will participate in the discussion series by giving research presentations related to student lab rotations or dissertation research. Flood, Program Faculty. W 1-2:00pm.
OBIO 730,731 ADVANCED ORAL BIOLOGY: INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGICAL CONCEPTS IN ORAL BIOLOGY (3). Overview of structures and biological functions associated with the oral cavity and related conditions and diseases; mechanisms of both cellular and tissue growth and development and changes will be introduced in the contexts of three areas within the discipline of oral biology: biology of extracellular matrices, host-pathogens interactions, and orofacial neurobiology. Lectures, seminars. Arnold, Yamauchi, Program Faculty. M 8-10:00am.
OBIO 770,772 SEMINARS IN ORAL BIOLOGY (1). Review of current literature in selected areas of Pathogenesis, ECM, or Sensory Neuroscience. Students will present and critique current literature dealing with the newest discoveries in their relevant field with faculty from that programmatic track in an interactive forum between students and faculty. Flood, Oral Biology Faculty. M 1-2:00pm.
PATH 426 BIOLOGY OF BLOOD DIESEASES (BIOL 426) (3). This is a biology/pathology course focused entirely on the biological and disease processes of blood, with emphasis on human biology and the molecular mechanisms associated with normal host defense processes and some diseases of blood and bone marrow. Several aspects of hematology and oncology are covered, with lectures on diseases such as cancer (leukemia and lymphoma), anemia (sickle cell disease), blood coagulation disorders (hemophilia and thrombosis), atherosclerosis and cholesterol metabolism, and some pathophysiology on HIV disease/AIDS. Substantial class time is used to cover the normal biology and molecular processes of blood/bone marrow, the genesis of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. The course is organized into four instructional units: (1) Red blood cells and anemias, (2) White blood cells and leukemias, lymphomas, and multiple myeloma, (3) HIV disease and AIDS, and (4) Hemostasis and thrombosis. The fifth unit of the course features poster presentations of various diseases by the students in the class. Church. MWF 10-10:50am.
PATH 713 MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL BASIS OF DISEASE: MECHANISMS OF DISEASE (3). This is a graduate course on cell injury and pathogenesis of disease with emphasis on basic mechanisms at the molecular, cellular, and organismal levels. The course objectives include: (i) to convey to students an understanding of various pathophysiologic processes, including cellular injury, inflammation, immune responses, neoplasia, hemodynamic disorders, and vascular disease, and (ii) to teach students to recognize and describe normal histology and histologic changes manifest in various pathophysiologic processes, including cellular injury, inflammation, immune responses, neoplasia, hemodynamic disorders, and vascular disease. This is a team-taught course. Members of the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine faculty and guest faculty lecturers present information on histology and pathologic mechanisms of disease. Course content is derived from the leading pathology textbook and primary literature. Student performance in the course will be assessed through in-class and take-home examinations. Wolberg/Homeister. MWF 11-11:50am.
PATH 714 MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL BASIS OF DISEASE LABORATORY (2). This is a graduate pathology laboratory course that serves as the companion to Pathology 713. The course is organized around the major pathologic processes, and utilizes illustrative diseases that are representative of specific mechanisms of disease. In each laboratory session, students are given the opportunity to see gross specimens that are representative of disease processes and observe microscopic images of these same pathologies. Emphasis is placed on recognizing pathologic processes and lesions when compared to normal tissues. This course is taught in Fall semester and class size is limited. Prerequisite: Pathology 713 (this course can be taken concurrently with Pathology 713). Godfrey. W 1-3:30pm.
PATH 801 CRITICAL SCIENTIFIC THINKING (3). A graduate-level course designed to teach the ‘scientific method’ and based on student presentations of primary literature and group discussions. The primary goal is to teach students the process by which scientists identify problems, formulate testable hypotheses, collect data through experiments, and eventually establish new models describing biological processes. The course will chronologically follow the development of a field of study, the cell cycle, illustrating the logical evolution of a coherent line of scientific inquiry. Students will present key papers that significantly advanced our understanding of the cell cycle. During group discussions, students will critically analyze the results of papers, then identify interesting questions, formulate new hypotheses and describe experiments to test their hypotheses. This helps students to understand both the thought processes and experiments that have led to current concepts in the cell cycle literature. This course provides a structured mechanism to help facilitate the transition of students from the classroom to the lab and helps develop skills that will be required throughout their scientific careers. Course content will be derived solely from primary literature. Grades will be determined based on in-class performance and take-home assignments. Vaziri. T 2-5:00pm.
PATH 890 SPECIAL TOPICS IN PATHOLOGY (1-3). This course will study human disease processes that are induced or exacerbated by our environment. Environmental disease stressors include solar radiation, air and water pollution, bioreactive substances in foods, pesticides, metals, dusts, particles and allergens. Lectures will emphasize epidemiology, mechanisms of toxicity and human disease pathogenesis. Kaufmann. TTH 10:30-11:45am.
PHCO 643 CELL STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION AKA SUPER CELL I (3). See CBIO 643 for course description.
PHCO 701 INTRODUCTION TO MOLECULAR PHARMACOLOGY (2). Permission of the instructor required. A first-year pharmacology course outlining the basic of molecular pharmacology, including molecular biology, drug/receptor interactions, receptors and ion channels, regulation of second messengers, and drug metabolism. Two lecture hours a week. Zefeng Wang, Course Director. MWF 9-9:50am.
PHCO 722 (A-C). (2). See NBIO 722 (A-C) for course descriptions.
PHYI 702 EXPERIMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMAN HEALTH AND DISEASE (3). Students will learn the principles of cell, organ and systems physiology and pathophysiology required to identify important areas of current biomedical research. Companion course to PHYI 703. Both courses will cover different physiological systems (cardiovascular, neuro, respiratory, etc), and will emphasize examples of specific diseases (channelopathies, schizophrenia, hypertension, diabetes, etc) and current research opportunities. PHYI 702 will focus on non-human model systems (cultured cells, mice, zebrafish, etc), while PHYI 703 (offered in the spring) will focus on approaches that utilize human samples or human genomics. Both courses will have a strong emphasis on the current research literature and will include weekly journal-club discussion of assigned papers. Goy, staff. MWF 9-9:50am.
PHYI 722 (A-C). (2). See NBIO 722 (A-C) for course descriptions.
TOXC 442 BIOCHEMICAL AND MOLECULAR TOXICOLOGY (3). Prerequisites, any combination of two courses in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology or cell physiology (or permission of the course director). Development of a comprehensive understanding of biochemical and molecular actions of environmental chemicals and toxicants, and proper application of novel laboratory techniques for hypothesis-driven mechanistic research. Rusyn. TTH 3:30-4:45pm. HC 0003.
TOXC 721 TOXICOLOGY SEMINAR II (1). Student-conducted presentations and discussions of recent advances in toxicology; emphasis on critical evaluation of published investigations and on organization and oral delivery of presentations. Padilla and Cordeiro-Stone. W 3:45-4:45pm.
TOXC 722 TOXICOLOGY SEMINAR III (ENVR 722) (1). Presentations by outside invited speakers, local faculty, advanced graduate students and postdoctoral trainees. Topics will cover all areas of research in toxicology. Rusyn. M 4-5:00 pm.
BCB 710 BIOINFORMATICS COLLOQUIUM (1). Required for First 4 Semesters. M 4:30-5:30pm.
BCB 712 BIOINFORMATICS AND DATABASES (1). This module introduces the basic information-science methods for storage and retrieval of biological information. Instructors review standard database types and their applicability to bioinformatics data generated in research laboratories. Students learn the role of metadata and ontologies as standardization mechanisms for providing interoperability between different information resource types such as genetic sequences, microarray maps, and journal articles.
TTH 11:00-12:15pm. (Feb 9-March 15).
BCB 713 DATA MINING AND CLUSTERING (1). This module covers methods of knowledge extraction (association rules, pattern recognition, clustering, classification, prediction) from complex biological data sets. Wang. TTH 11:00-12:15pm (January 10-February 7).
BCB 715 MATHEMATICAL APPROACHES TO MODELING (1). This module provides an introduction to the basic mathematical techniques used to develop and analyze models of biochemical networks. Both deterministic and stochastic models are discussed. Elston. TTH 11:00-12:15pm (March 20-April 24).
BCB 716 SEQUENCE ANALYSIS (1). This module is designed to introduce students to concepts and methods in the comparative analysis of nucleic acid and protein sequences, including sequence alignment, homology search, phylogenetics and genome assembly. Vision/Wang. TTH 11:00-12:15pm.
BCB 717 STRUCTURAL BIOINFORMATICS (1). This module introduces methods and techniques for protein modeling including structure determination, protein architecture, approaches to folding simulations, structure prediction, and structure based drug design. Kuhlman. TTH 9:25-10:15am (January 10-February 7).
BIOC 632 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY II (BIOL 632, GNET 632, MCRO 632, PHCO 632) (3). Prerequisites for undergraduates, at least one undergraduate course in both biochemistry and genetics. The purpose of this course is to provide historical, basic and current information about the flow and regulation of genetic information from DNA to RNA in a variety of biological stems. Baldwin (course director), Marzluff, Strahl.
BIOC 644 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND GROWTH CONTROL II (CBIO 644, MCRO 644, PHCO 644) (3). Prerequisite, undergraduate cell biology/biochemistry or permission of instructor. Comprehensive introduction to cell structure, function and transformation. Staff.
BIOC 655 CASE STUDIES IN STRUCTURAL MOLECULRAR BIOLOGY (3). Prerequisite, CHEM 430 or equivalent. Principles of macromolecular structure and function with emphasis on proteins, molecular assemblies, enzyme mechanisms and ATP enzymology. Carter. MWF 10:00-11:00am. GMB 3007.
BIOC 662 MACROMOLECULAR INTERACTIONS (1). Prerequisites, BIOC 650–653 or permission of the instructor. Theory and practice of biophysical methods used for macromolecular characterization, and for exploring interactions between macromolecules and their ligands. Techniques include surface plasmon resonance, analytical ultracentrifugation, calorimetry, and light scattering. Tripathy. MWF 11:00-12:00pm. GMB 3007.
BIOC 663A MACROMOLECULAR NMR (1). Prerequisites, BIOC 650–653 or permission of the instructor. Principles and practice of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy as applied to small and biological molecules in solution. Concepts for understanding two-dimensional NMR are introduced for applications in biological macromolecular structure and dynamics. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Campbell, Lee. MWF 11:00-12:00pm. GMB 3007.
BIOC 663B MACROMOLECULAR NMR PRACTICE (1). Prerequisite, BIOC 653 or permission of the course director. Lab section for BIOC 663A. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Spring. Campbell (course director), MWF 11:00-11:50am. TerHorst, Lee.
BIOC 665 ADVANCED NMR (2). Prerequisite, BIOC 663A/CHEM 734 and associated NMR lab (BIOC 663B/ CHEM 734 or permission of the course director. Consists of both lecture and lab format. The objectives of this course are to introduce students to advanced topics in macromolecular NMR spectroscopy. Topics include understanding fundamental concepts associated with two dimensional double resonance spectroscopy as well as triple resonance 3D NMR spectroscopy (understanding pulse sequences, setting up experiments on the spectrometer, processing data and assigning resonances on a small protein). Spring, (odd numbered years). Spring. Campbell (course director), Lee, and Young.
BIOC 666 X-RAY CRYSTALLOGRAPHY OF MACROMOLECULES (1). Prerequisites, BIOC 650–653 or permission of the instructor. Principles of protein crystallography, characterization of crystals, theory of diffraction, phasing of macromolecular crystals, THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODEL OF PROTEINS and structure refinement. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Spring. Ke (course director). MWF 9:00-9:40am. GMB 3095.
BIOC 667 MACROMOLECULAR CRYSTALLOGRAPHIC METHODS (2). Prerequisite, BIOC 666 or permission of course director. A combined lecture/laboratory workshop for serious students of protein crystallography. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Spring (odd-numbered years). Collins (course director), Redinbo. TTH 10:30-12:00pm. Bldg B Conf Room.
BIOC 670 STRUCTURAL BIOINFORMATICS (1). Prerequisites, none. A lecture course introducing computational methods for protein structure prediction, docking and design. Basic principles of protein structure, stability and folding are also reviewed. Spring. Kuhlman (course director). TTH 9:30-11:00am. 3007 GMB.
BIOC 673 PROTEOMICS, PROTEIN IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION BY MASS SPECTROMETRY (1). Prerequisites, BIOC 650-653 or one semester of physical chemistry or permission of the instructor. A lecture module that introduces students to the basics of mass spectrometry as applied to protein science on the context of systems investigation of biological processes/pathways. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Spring. Chen (course director).
BIOC 674 ION CHANNELS (1). Meissner.
BIOC 700 CURRENT TOPICS IN RNA STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND TECHNOLOGY. (2). Prerequisite, permission of course director. Critical reading and discussion of current literature related to the study of RNA structure, RNA-protein interactions, novel RNA functions, RNA as a therapeutic target/agent and RNA methods. Spring. Fried (course director).
BIOC 703 TEACHING IN BIOCHEMISTRY (2) Permission required of course director. Students should be 1st year BBSP students or 2nd year Biochemistry students who want to gain instruction and experience learning how to teach biochemistry. Students will gain experience leading small group session and may present a lecture to undergraduates. Toews.
BIOC 704 SEMINARS IN BIOPHYSICS (2). Prerequisite, permission of the instructor. Students present seminars coordinated with the visiting lecturer series of the Program in Molecular and Cellular Biophysics. Lentz (course director), staff.
BIOC 707 CILLULAR METABOLISM AND HUMAN DISEASE. (3). Prerequisites, 1st year BBSP or advanced graduate students with background in basic cellular biochemistry and permission of course director. This advanced graduate level course addresses the role of cellular metabolism in human disease, including the roles and regulation of biochemical pathways. Recent advances in this area of research will be emphasized. Diseases addressed will include cancer and diabetes. Spring. Toews (course director).
BIOL 522 BACTERIAL GENETICS (3). Genetics of eubacteria with emphasis on molecular genetics including regulation of gene expression, transposons, operons, regulons, plasmids, transformation, and conjugation. Matthysse A. MWF 9-9:50am.
BIOL 542 LIGHT MICROSCOPY FOR THE BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES (3). Introduction to various types of light microscopy, digital and video imaging techniques, and their application in biological sciences. Salmon, Bloom. TR 3-4:15pm. Wilson 202.
BIOL 565 CONSERVATION BIOLOGY (3). The application of biological science to the conservation of populations, communities, and ecosystems, including rare species management, exotic species invasions, management of natural disturbance, research strategies, and preserve design principles. White. TR 12:30-1:45pm. Fred Brooks Hall F009.
BIOL 625-001 SEMINAR IN GENETICS (2). Bautch, Peifer.
BIOL 625-002 SEMINAR IN GENETICS (2). Sekelsky/Copenhaver/Jones.
BIOL 639 SEMINAR IN PLANT MOLECULAR AND CELL BIOLOGY (3). Dangle, Jones.
BIOL 649 SEMINAR IN CELL BIOLOGY (2). Bloom.
CBIO 644 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND GROWTH CONTROL II (Supercell) (BIOC 644, MCRO 644, PHCO 644) (3). Prerequisite, undergraduate cell biology or biochemistry or permission of the instructor. Comprehensive introduction to cell structure, function and transformation. TR 2:00-3:15. Taylor Hall 124.
CBIO 892B CONTEMPORARY PROBLEMS (3). Prerequisite, permission of the instructor. Analysis of grant proposals dealing with advanced topics in modern cell biology and/or developmental biology. TBD.
CBIO 894 ADVANCED CELL BIOLOGY II (4). Literature based discussion course on the application of modern approaches from multiple disciplines in Cell Biology. Emphasis is on small group discussion and dissection of primary literature including methods, scientific logic, and critical thinking. Maximum of 12 students are allowed in the class. Students not currently in Cell & Developmental Biology Department who are interested in this course should contact the course director prior to registering. TR 3-5:30 pm. MBRB 6201.
CHEM 430 INTRODUCTION TO BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY (3). Spremulli. TTH 12:30-1:45pm.
CHEM 432 METABOLOIC CHEMISTRY AND CELLULAR REGULATORY NETWORKS (3). Biological membranes, membrane protein structure, transport phenomena; metabolic pathways, reaction themes, regulatory networks; metabolic transformations with carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleotides; regulatory networks, signal transduction. Spremulli. TR 9:30-10:45am.
CHEM 730 CHEMICAL BIOLOGY (3).**** Application of chemical principles and tools to study and manipulate biological systems; in-depth exploration of examples from the contemporary literature. Topics include new designs for the genetic code, drug design, chemical arrays, single molecule experiments, laboratory-based evolution, chemical sensors, and synthetic biology. Weeks. MWF 11am-12:15pm**** Strongly recommended for BBSP students interested in Biochemistry & Chemical Biology.
CHEM 734: BIOMOLECULAR NMR (1-2). Introduction to practical solution NMR of proteins in solution. Pielak. 1st 8 weeks of Spring semester, MWF 11-11:50am.
CHEM 735: MACROMOLECULAR INTERACTIONS (1).**** Modern instrumentation and analysis in biological chemistry. Includes extensive, hands-on use of the instruments in the UNC Macromolecular Interactions Facility. Pielak. 2nd 8 weeks of Spring semester, MWF 11-11:50am
**** Strongly recommended for BBSP students interested in Biochemistry & Chemical Biology.
CHEM 736: MACROMOLECULAR CRYSTALLOGRAPHIC METHODS (2) Data collection, phase determination, and structural refinement. Laboratory component allows students to crystallize protein, collect and process data, determine phases, and refine their structures. Redinbo.
GNET 622 PRINCIPLES OF HUMAN & MOUSE GENETICS (4). The course covers Basic Principles of Human Genetics, including the structure of the human genome, in-depth discussion of pedigree analysis and the mutational basis for Mendelian disorders, as well as modern approaches to the study of common, complex diseases. Both linkage analysis and genome-wide association studies are covered. The use of mouse models for analysis of mammalian genetic variation and for the study of human genetic disorders is a significant component of course content. The final section of the course is on Epigenetics in both mice and humans. Farber. TTH 12:30-1:45pm. Recitation: F 1:30-2:30pm.
GNET 632 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2 (3). Required preparation for undergraduates, at least one undergraduate course in both biochemistry and genetics. The purpose of this course is to provide historical, basic and current information about the flow and regulation of genetic information from DNA to RNA in a variety of biological systems. Baldwin. MWF 9:00-9:50am. Recitation: W or F 2-3pm.
GNET 641 INTRODUCTION TO BIOINFORMATICS (4). This course provides an introduction to basic genome informatics, including genome databases, sequence analysis, gene expression analysis, protein structural analysis and managing the scientific literature. Kelkar. MTW 10:00-12:00pm. Health Sciences Library 307.
MCRO 640 MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS II (3). Prerequisites, a fundamental understanding of molecular virology and immunology and permission of the instructor. Molecular pathogenesis, with a primary focus on viral pathogens. Additional topics include vaccines and genetics of host-pathogen interactions. Heise. TR 10:45–12:00pm.
MCRO 710 SEMINAR/TUTORIAL IN PROKARYOTIC MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (var). This course has pre-requisites and requires permission of the instructor. Braunstein. F 12–2:30pm.
MCRO 712 SEMINAR/TUTORIAL IN IMMUNOLOGY (var). Microbiome and mucosal immune responses.
MEDC 805 DRUG DISCOVERY TARGETS (3). High throughput genomics, proteomics, and biochemical screening. Library design, computational analysis. R. Liu. MWF 9-9:50am. Beard 102.
MOPH 850 PHARMACEUTICAL ANALYSIS (2). The course is designed to introduce first or second year graduate students to basic principles of modern analytical techniques used in pharmaceutical analyses. Techniques such as Liquid Scintillation Methods, Light Microscopy, Gas Chromatography, Mass Spectrometry, Metabolomics/MS Approaches, NMR, Assay Validation/Chiral Chromotrography were covered in the most recent course. Smith.
DPET 855 DESIGN AND ANALYSIS OF CLINICAL DRUG (2). Discussion of approaches to data analysis of clinical drug studies. Common study designs and their implementation are reviewed. Hull. (course part of the MOPH course offerings).
NBIO 723 CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY (PHYI 723, PHCO 723) (2). MWF 10a,-12pm.
BLOCK 4: SYNAPTIC MECHANISMS AND INTRACELLULAR SIGNALING (723A) (10 SESSIONS) This block explores synaptic transmission: the mechanisms regulating the release of neurotransmitters from nerve terminals, including quantal release, vesicle and terminal membrane proteins, neurotransmitter transporters, and synaptic plasticity; and the biochemical signal transduction events following activation of neurotransmitter receptors including G-protein coupling, desensitization, signaling specificity, downstream effectors, calcium signaling and tyrosine kinases. Spring. Manis, Carelli, and faculty.
BLOCK 5: CNS: ANATOMY AND FUNCTION OF SENSORY AND MOTOR SYSTEMS (723B) (11 SESSIONS) This block introduces the sensory pathways of vision, audition, taste, olfaction, pain, and touch, as well as the motor pathways of the spinal cord, basal ganglia, cerebellum, and motor cortex. Mechanisms of sensory information processing and motor execution are discussed. The section includes sessions on human brain neuroanatomy and brain imaging. Spring. Manis, Fitzpatrick, and faculty.
BLOCK 6: CNS: IMAGING AND DISEASE (723C, 17 Sessions). This block explores the basic neurobiology and the clinical aspects of a range of diseases of the nervous system, including ALS, Alzheimer's disease, autism, schizophrenia, multiple sclerosis, and other neurodegenerative diseases. Spring Manis, Boettiger, and faculty.
NBIO 724 DEVELOPMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY (3). The theme of this course will be "what are the basic principles guiding te emergence of the mammalian nervous system?" The intent of this course is to present current topics in developmental neuroscience in the context fo this theme. Topics will stress the biochemical, molecular, cellular, and genetic processes involved in the development and function of the mammalian nervous system. Anton.
NBIO 727 TRANSLATIONAL SEMINAR IN COGNITIVE AND CLINICAL NEUROSCIENCE (2). Introduces new neuroimaging techniques and their application to the study of the neural correlates of cognitive and behavioral impairments in a number of brain disorders. Spring. Belger.
NBIO 800 GENE-BRAIN NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS (2). This seminar examines the topics of genetics, neuroanatomy, physiology, and behavioral development to provide a broad-based and integrated background to understand the etiology and potential mechanism underlying neurodevelopmental disorders. Philpot.
NBIO 801 CLINCIAL SYNDROMES/DISORDER (2). This seminar will review the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of neurodevelopmental syndromes and disorders. Topics will range from single gene (e.g. fragile X syndrome and tuberous sclerosis) to complex genetic (e.g., autism, schizophrenia), to environmental disorders with varied phenotypes, pathogenetic mechanisms, and treatments. Philpot.
NBIO 850 COMMUNICATING SCIENTIFIC RESULTS (1). See PHYI 706 for course descriptions.
NBIO 890 MICROSCOPY & IMAGING (3). This course is aimed to provide all the information one may need in order to be able to address a particular problem with the application of a right technique, perform the imaging, avoid the errors in data acquisition and overcome the pitfalls, analyze data and present it in the most appropriate way in order to illustrate clearly the results obtained. The course will introduce a wide range of topics related to microscopy: from basic optics to microscopy equipment, conventional techniques, as well as advanced microscopy and data analysis. No background in any discipline is required. The course will build understanding of the principles of microscopy from scratch, proceed to the explanation of conventional and advanced techniques, explain the pitfalls, advantages and disadvantages of each method, as well as discuss what problems can be addressed with each technique and what is the level of details that can be expected. Gukassyan.
OBIO 711, 713 DISCUSSIONS IN ORAL BIOLOGY (SEMINAR) (1). Flood, program faculty. W 1:00-2:00pm.
OBIO 732 ADVANCED ORAL BIOLOGY (3). Maixner, program faculty. M 8:00-10:00am.
OBIO 741 MOLECULAR CONTROL OF BONE MASS (3). Advanced course providing an introduction to the structures and the biological functions of mineralized tissues. This course will examine bone formation and bone maintenance. Cellular and molecular determinants of osteogenesis and resorbtion will be explored. Course format will be faculty lecture and assigned student presentation of current literature. Prerequisites Chemistry 430 and Oral Biology 730 or equivalent. Flood, Everett. TH 1:00-2:00pm.
OBIO 762 THE MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PATHOGENISIS OF INFLAMMATORY DISEASES (3). Prerequisites, Biochemistry and Immunology; permission of instructor required. This course will present recent information on the pathogenesis of inflammatory conditions from the molecular, cellular and systems perspectives. This course will cover molecular signals, cellular processes, the pathogenesis of specific inflammatory conditions, and the immunopharmacology of inflammation. Lecture, seminar. Arnold, Host-Pathogen faculty.
OBIO 771, 773 SEMINARS IN ORAL BIOLOGY (1). Flood, Oral Biology faculty. M 1:00-2:00pm.
PATH 464 LIGHT MICROSCOPY (3). This course covers all conventional modes of light microscopy including: bright field, dark field, phase contrast, polarized light, differential interference contrast, wide field fluorescence, and confocal laser scanning. The class consists of lecture, demonstration, and practice - with emphasis on practice - covering each of these methods. Good microscopy technique is emphasized throughout the class. This is basic light microscopy including the principles of optics, lenses, resolution, and the nature of light that are necessary for understanding and applying these methods. The Microscopy Services Laboratory has upright, inverted, and confocal microscopy systems that students learn to operate. The class notes for Pathology 464 are available in PDF format on the Microscopy Services Laboratory website (www.med.unc.edu/microscopy). Class size is limited. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. Course Director: C. Robert Bagnell, Ph.D. (bagnell@med.unc.edu). TTH 6-7:30pm. (1/10 – 4/24/2012).
PATH 667 PATHOBIOLOGY CV DISEASES (3). This advanced course will explore the underlying pathogenesis of clinical cardiac and vascular disease with the objective of teaching students to understand, investigate, and communicate current concepts of cardiovascular disease. Willis/Homeister. TTH 1:00 – 3:00pm. (1/10 – 4/24/2012).
PATH 715 MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL BASIS OF DISEASE: SYSTEMIC PATHOLOGY (3). This is a graduate course on systemic pathology that emphasizes diseases of the major organ systems. The major objectives of this course of study are to (i) illustrate pathology of organ systems, (ii) describe pathogenesis of the diseases of organ systems, and (iii) present the abnormal physiology that is associated with disease of organ systems. Thus, the three-part focus of the course is pathology, pathogenesis, and pathophysiology. This course builds upon the content of Pathology 713 which emphasizes mechanisms of disease. The courses is organized into eight instructional blocks covering (1) disorders of the cardiovascular system and blood, (2) disorders of the respiratory system, (3) disorders of the gastrointestinal system, (4) disorders of the liver, biliary tract, and exocrine pancreas, (5) skin, bones, joints, skeletal muscle, and connective tissue, (6) disorders of the endocrine and reproductive systems, (7) disorders of the kidney and urinary system, and (8) disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system. Each instructional block will contain lectures on (a) the normal histology of the organ system, (b) pathology and pathogenesis of diseases of that organ system, and (c) normal physiology of the organ system and abnormal physiology associated with disease. Lecturers in this course represent faculty members from the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, as well as numerous other departments. Course content is derived from the leading pathology textbook and primary literature. Student performance in the course will be assessed through take-home examinations. Course Director: William B. Coleman, Ph.D. (william.coleman@pathology.unc.edu). MWF 11-11:50am. (1/9 – 4/25/2012).
PATH 716 MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL BASIS OF DISEASE LABORATORY II (2). This is a graduate pathology laboratory course that serves as the companion to PATH 715. The course is organized around the major organ systems, and is focused on diseases associated with these systems that are important clinically or scientifically. In each laboratory session, students are given the opportunity to see gross specimens that are representative of disease processes of a given organ system, and observe microscopic images of these same pathologies. Emphasis is placed on recognizing pathologic processes and lesions when compared to normal tissues. This course is taught in Spring semester and class size is limited. Prerequisite: PATH 715 (this course can be taken concurrently with PATH 715). Course Director: Rogers/Homeister. W 1-3:30pm. (1/11 – 4/25/2012).
PATH 723 TRANSLATIONAL PATHOLOGY AND LABORATORY MEDICINE (2). Advances in genomics and proteomics have led to improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases. This has resulted in an increasing reliance and emphasis on strong collaborations between clinicians and basic scientists to develop effective treatments and diagnostics. The Translational Pathology and Laboratory Medicine course is a multi-disciplinary course designed to provide students with a first hand account of principles involved in translating basic science into clinically applicable diagnostics and therapies to improve human disease outcomes. The main objective of this course is to teach students the process of translational medicine in pathology. Students learn how basic science applied to human disease can lead to the discovery of its pathophysiology, which in turn can be used to develop therapeutic and diagnostic tests. The course is focused on bioinformatics, bioethics, trial design, FDA approval, and commercialization of laboratory diagnostics. Students also learn how to critically analyze translational research studies and to communicate these findings to their peers. The course is taught by faculty members who are experts in clinical and translational research (molecular virology, metabolomics, transcriptomics, molecular diagnostics). These faculty lecture on relevant and recent advances in translational medicine in their area of expertise, followed by student presentations on key papers and in-depth group discussion on the same topic. Student performance is evaluated based upon oral presentations, participation in group discussions, and monthly writing assignments. Course Director: Monte S. Willis, M.D., Ph.D. (monte_willis@med.unc.edu). T 3-5:00pm. (1/10 – 4/24/2012).
PATH 725 CANCER PATHOBIOLOGY (3). This is a graduate course that covers a range of topics related to neoplastic disease, including cancer etiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, and treatment. Lecturers emphasize an interdisciplinary approach drawing on observations from epidemiology, genetics, molecular biology, animal modeling, histopathology and clinical medicine. The intent of the course is to provide a firm foundation in the pathobiologic features of cancer and thereby facilitate the translation of bench science into the clinical laboratory. Lectures providing overviews and introductions to specific topics will be augmented with in-depth coverage of three organ systems (lung, breast, colon), including epidemiology, genetics, molecular oncogenesis, animal models, histopathology, and clinical management of these cancers. Prerequisite: permission of the course director. Course Director: William K. Kaufmann, Ph.D. (william.kaufmann@pathology.unc.edu). TR 10:30am-12pm. )1/10 – 4/24/2012.
PATH 792 SEMINAR IN CARCINOGENESIS (2). Carcinogenesis is the multi-step process through which normal cells develop neoplastic potential in response to agents that encourage this process (i.e. carcinogens). The field of carcinogenesis emerged about two hundred years ago in descriptions of human cancers that seemed to be strongly related to specific occupations (and occupational exposures). Since that time, the carcinogenic actions of numerous chemical, physical, and viral agents have been studied in the experimental models of neoplastic transformation. More recently, spontaneous neoplastic transformation (or “endogenous carcinogenesis") has been extensively investigated, in models of sporadic human cancer. Today, experimental carcinogenesis researchers investigate mechanisms of neoplastic transformation through experimental approaches that integrate molecular biology, genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and experimental pathology. The convergence of these specialized fields of investigation has resulted in an unprecedented rate of new discoveries during the last decade. As a result, we possess a far better understanding of the normal cellular processes that govern cellular homeostasis (cell cycle control mechanisms, DNA repair mechanisms, normal functions of positive and negative mediators of cell proliferation, etc.), and the ways in which these processes are disturbed in neoplastic cells. Seminar in Carcinogenesis will feature presentations by students and faculty covering a broad range of topics on mechanisms of neoplastic transformation, with special emphasis on the molecular basis of cancer induction. There is no single text for this course. Rather, background material is taken from the classic carcinogenesis literature, and from recently published original research and reviews. Discussions consider experimental methodology and observations, as well as general concepts and theories. Each student is required to give an oral presentation on a current issue in carcinogenesis (topic to be chosen by the student), and to write a short review of the chosen subject. Students are critically evaluated on the quality of their presentation in order to enhance development of good presentation skills. Grades are based upon level of participation during the course, the individual oral presentation, and the written review paper. This course is cross-listed as Toxicology 792. Course Director: William B. Coleman, Ph.D. (william.coleman@pathology.unc.edu). R 1-3:00pm. (1/12 – 4/19/2012).
PHCO 644 CELL STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION AKA SUPER CELL II (3). See CBIO 644 for course description.
PHCO 702 PRINCIPLES OF PHARMACOLOGY AND PHYSIOLOGY (3). Permission of the instructor required. Introduces the major areas of pharmacology and physiology and serves as a basis for most advanced courses in Pharmacology. Three lecture hours a week. Ken McCarthy, Course Director. MWF 9-9:50am.
PHCO 723(A-C). (2). See NBIO 723 (A-C) for course descriptions.
PHYI 644CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND GROWTH CONTROL II (3). See CBIO 644 for course description.
PHYI 703EXPERIMENTAL PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMAN HEALTH & DISEASE (3). Students will learn the principles of cell, organ and systems physiology and pathophysiology required to identify important areas of current biomedical research. Companion course to PHYI 702 (offered in the fall semester). Both courses will cover different physiological systems (cardiovascular, neuro, respiratory, etc), and will emphasize examples of specific diseases (channelopathies, schizophrenia, hypertension, diabetes, etc) and current research opportunities. PHYI 702 will focus on non-human model systems (cultured cells, mice, zebrafish, etc), while PHYI 703 will focus on approaches that utilize human samples or human genomics. Both courses will have a strong emphasis on the current research literature and will include weekly journal-club discussion of assigned papers. Goy, staff. MWF 9-9:50am.
PHYI 723(A-C) (2). See NBIO 723 (A-C) for course description.
TOXC 423DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICOLOGY (3). Emphasizes topics of current research interest relative to the genesis of environmentally caused and genetically based birth defects. Sulik/Rogers/Hunter. T 9:00-12:00pm.
TOXC 707 ADVANCED TOXICOLOGY (PHCO 707, ENVR 707) (3). Prerequisite, PHCO 702 or permission of the course director. Cellular and physiological basis of toxicity of environmental chemicals, with emphasis on inhalation toxicology, developmental toxicology, immunotoxicology, radiation toxicology, renal toxicology and neurotoxicology. Swenberg. MWF 9:00–9:50am.
TOXC 722 TOXICOLOGY SEMINAR III (ENVR 722) (1). Presentations by outside invited speakers, local faculty, advanced graduate students and postdoctoral trainees. Topics will cover all areas of research in toxicology. Rusyn. M 4-5:00pm.
