THE MOLECULAR CONTROL OF CELL FUNCTION

THE MOLECULAR CONTROL OF CELL FUNCTION
Course Code
BC 3804
Credit Points
30
Course Coordinator
Dr I J McEwan

Pre-requisites

BI 20M1 and BI 25M1, CM 2008, CM 2512, BI 2002 and CM 2511 strongly recommended.

Overview

This course explores the molecular mechanisms involved in controlling cell function, emphasising the role of protein:protein interactions. A study of the structural proteins required to maintain cell structure and cell division is followed by an in-depth discussion of the enzymes involved in regulating metabolism and maintaining homeostasis within the cell. Ligand-receptor interactions and intracellular signalling pathways illustrate how the cell reacts to external signals, while a review of the extracellular matrix and cell adhesion leads to a discussion of the molecular basis of oncogenesis and cell differentiation.

Structure

7 one-hour lectures per week. 1 two-hour tutorial every 2 weeks and an average of 10 hours’ laboratory practical per week.

Assessment

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour written examination (80%) and in-course assessment (20%) consisting of an essay and practical reports.
Students must pass both the course work and examination parts of the course.
Resit: As for main exam.