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 2009 Courses click here.
Fall 2008 Courses
BIOC 505 – INTRODUCTION TO MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (3). Prerequisites, undergraduate biochemistry or genetics, and organic chemistry. Techniques in molecular biology, mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription, and translation of genetic material in prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems; genomics, gene organization; regulatory and signaling mechanisms; and molecular biology of cancer. Crews, Fried, Van Dyke, Xiong, Zhang. MWF 12 – 12:50 pm, 106 Berryhill.
BIOC 601 – ENZYME PROPERTIES, MECHANISMS, AND REGULATION (3). Prerequisite, Chemistry 430 or equivalent. Focuses on enzyme architecture to illustrate how the shapes of enzymes are designed to optimize the catalytic step and become allosterically modified to regulate the rate of catalysis. Traut, Wolfenden. MWF 10 – 10:50 am, 408 MEJ.
BIOC 631 - ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY I (3). See GNET 631 for course description.
BIOC 643 - CELL STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION AKA SUPER CELL (3). See CBIO 643 for course description.
BIOC 650 – MACROMOLECULAR THERMODYNAMICS (1). Prerequisites, Chemistry 130 and two semesters of physical chemistry or permission of instructor. Basic molecular models and their use in developing statistical descriptions of macromolecular function. Lentz. MWF 11 – 11:50 am, 305 MEJ. (Check Biophysics website for specific dates for BIOC 144 – 158 modules).
BIOC 651 – MACROMOLECULAR STRUCTURE AND DYNAMICS (1). Prerequisites, Chemistry 130 and two semesters of physical chemistry or permission of instructor. Macromolecules as viewed with modern computational methods. Sondek (course director), Temple, Lentz. MWF 11 – 11:50 am, 305 MEJ. (Check Biophysics website for specific dates for BIOC 144 – 158 modules).
BIOC 652 – MACROMOLECULAR EQUILIBRIA (1). Prerequisites, Chemistry 130 and two semesters of physical chemistry or permission of the instructor. Stability of macromolecules and their complexes with other molecules. Lentz. MWF 11 – 11:50 am, 305 MEJ. (Check Biophysics website for specific dates for BIOC 144 – 158 modules).
BIOC 655 - CASE STUDIES IN STRUCTURAL MOLECULAR BIOLOGY (3). Prerequisite, Chemistry 430 or equivalent. Principles of macromolecular structure and function with emphasis on proteins, molecular assemblies, enzyme mechanisms, and ATP enzymology. Carter.
BIOC 678 – ELECTRICAL SIGNALS FROM MACROMOLECULAR ASSEMBLAGES (2). Prerequisite, Biochemistry 147 or permission of course director. An intensive, six-hour-per-week introduction to the fundamentals of ion channel biophysics, including laboratory sessions to demonstrate principles and methods. Oxford (course director), Cheney, Rosenberg, Pallotta. (Check Biophysics website for specific dates for BIOC 144 – 158 modules).
BIOC 701 - RESEARCH TOPICS IN BIOCHEMISTRY (3). Seminar and critical study of modern research topics in biochemistry under the supervision of individual biochemistry faculty. Caplow, Fried, staff.
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, staff.
BIOC 712 - SCIENTIFIC WRITING (3). Prerequisite, doctoral candidate in biochemistry and biophysics. A course of lectures and workshops on the principles of clear scientific exposition with emphasis on the design and preparation of research grants. G. Sancar (course director), staff.
BIOC 715 - SCIENTIFIC PRESENTATION (1). Senior graduate students present original research results as a formal seminar. Feedback on presentation effectiveness and style will be provided by faculty instructors and classmates. Cook (co-director), Strahl (co-director), Kuhlman and Dokholyan.
BIOC 722 (A-C). (2). See NBIO 722 (A-C) for course descriptions.
BIOC 805 – MOLECULAR MODELING (3). Prerequisites, Mathematics 31, 32; Chemistry 181. Introduction to computer-assisted molecular design, techniques, and theory with an emphasis on the practical use of molecular mechanics and quantum mechanics programs. Tropsha (coordinator).
BIOL 471 EVOLUTIONARY MECHANISMS (3). Introduction to mechanisms of evolutionary change, including natural selection, population genetics, life history evolution, speciation, and micro-macroevolutionary trends. Pfennig D. TTH 9:30-10:45 am, Wilson 128.
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. Fall. Goldstein, B. Three lecture hours per week. TTH 9:30-10:45 am, Wilson 202.
BIOL 535 MOLECULAR BIOLOGY TECHNIQUES (4). Stafford, D. TH 1-4:50 pm, Hamilton 517.
BIOL 551 COMPARITIVE BIOMECHANICS (3). The structure and function of organisms in relation to the principles of fluid mechanics and solid mechanics. Kier, W. TTH 11-12:15 pm.
BIOL 555 PALEOBOTANY (4). An introduction to the morphology, stratigraphic occurrence, and evolutionary relationships of fossil plants. Both macrofossils and microfossils will be considered. Three lecture and three laboratory hours a week. Gensel, P. TTH 9:30-10:45 am and TH 1-4 pm (lab). Wilson library 304 and Wilson 140 (lab).
BIOL 563 STATISTICAL ANALYSIS IN ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION (4). Application of modern statistical analysis and data modeling in ecological and evolutionary research. Emphasis is on computer-intensive methods and model-based approaches. Familiarity with standard parametic statistics is assumed. Weiss, J. MW 2-4:00 pm, Wilson 217.
BIOL 568 DISEASE ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION (3). Mitchell, C. TTH 10-11:15 am, Peabody 010.
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 11 am, 201 Stone Center.
BIOL 631 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY. (3) See GNET 631 for course description.
CBIO 643 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION, AND GROWTH CONTROL I AKA SUPERCELL I (3). Comprehensive introduction to cell structure, function, and transformation. Prerequisite, undergraduate cell biology or biochemistry or permission of the instructor.
CBIO 893 ADVANCED CELL BIOLOGY I (4). Literature based discussion course on the application of modern approaches from multiple disciplines in Cell Biology (e.g. Microscopy, Genetics, Biochemistry, Protein Quality Control, Cell Structure & Compartmentalization). Emphasis is on small group discussion and dissection of primary literature including methods, scientific logic, and critical thinking. Class size is limited to 12-14 students. Interested students should contact the course director, Dr. Scott Hammond (hammond@med.unc.edu) prior to registering. TTH 3-5:00 pm.
CHEM 431 MACROMOLECULAR STRUCTURE AND METABOLISM (3). Structure of DNA and methods in biotechnology; DNA replication and repair; RNA structure, synthesis, localization and transcriptional reputation; protein structure/function, biosynthesis, modification, localization, and degradation. TTH 8-9:15 am. Chapman 125.
CHEM 438 MACROMOLECULAR STRUCTURE AND HUMAN DISEASE (1). Impact of protein and macromolecular structure on the development and treatment of human disease, with emphasis on recent results. Examination of relevant diseases, current treatments, and opportunities for improved therapies. Redinbo. MWF 11 – 11:50 am, first 5 weeks of the semester.
CHEM 733 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. Lord, Erie. TTH 11-12:15 pm.
GNET(BCB) 710GNET COLLOQUIUM(1). Required for First 4 Semesters. M 4-5:00 pm.
GNET(BCB) 711APPLICATIONS OF INFORMATION THEORY, GRAMMARS, GENETIC PROGRAMMING, AND NEURAL NETWORKS TO SEQUENCE ANALYSIS
(1). This module covers applications of several commonly used methods to understand sequence structure and function at the DNA and RNA level. Topics covered include Information theory and Kolmogorov complexity, Hidden Markov Models, Stochastic Grammars, Genetic Programming, and Neural Networks, applied to problems such as gene finding, identification of regulatory elements, and RNA structure analysis. (Aug.19 - Sept. 18) TTH 11-12:15 pm.
GNET(BCB) 712DATATBASES, METADATA, ONTOLOGIES, DIGITAL LIBRARIES OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES (1). This module covers the basic information science elements of 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. (Oct. 30 – Dec. 4) TTH 11-12:15 pm.
GNET(BCB) 714 BIOSTATISTICS IN BIOINFORMATICS AND COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY (1). This course is intended to introduce statistical concepts as commonly used and applied to problems in gene mapping and gene expression analysis. (Sept. 23 - Oct. 28) TTH 11-12:15 pm.
GNET 621 PRINCIPLES OF GENETIC ANALYSIS 1 (3). Genetic principles of genetic analysis in prokaryotes and lower eukaryotes. Ahmed, S. TTH 11-12:15 pm, Wilson 128.
GNET 631 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY I (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, A. MWF 9-9:50 am.
MCRO 614 IMMUNOBIOLOGY (3). Prerequisites, a strong background in molecular biology, eukaryotic genetics, and biochemistry and permission of instructor. Topics include immunochemistry; genetic mechanisms, and development of cells and cell interactions; hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, resistance to infection. Three lectures. Collins, Vilen, Su.
MCRO 630 VIROLOGY (4). Prerequisites, molecular biology and cell biology. Current concepts of the chemistry, structure, replication, genetics, and natural history of animal viruses and their host cells. Damania, Kafri, staff.
MCRO 631 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY I (3). See GNET 631 for course description.
MCRO 635 MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS I (3). Prerequisites, coursework in molecular biology and genetics and permission of instructor required. Immunology of infectious disease (both bacterial and viral) and molecular pathogenesis, with a primary focus on bacterial pathogens.
MCRO 643 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND GROWTH CONTROL AKA SUPERCELL I (3). See CBIO 643 for course description.
NBIO 722 CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY I (2). This course is the linchpin of our curriculum, providing a broad and deep understanding of the current major questions in modern neurobiology and of the approaches being taken to solve them. This course focuses on developing skills of critical thinking and skepticism that are essential in evaluating any paper, poster, or seminar in neurobiology. The emphasis throughout the course is on the experimental basis for our knowledge. The course is intensive, meeting three times per week for two hours each session during both the fall and spring semesters. A faculty member leads the first hour with an interactive lecture, then a student group presents and leads the discussion of a seminal research paper in the second hour. In this way, experimental approaches are evaluated along with the quality and strength of the experimental basis for our understanding. These student presentations of the research papers help them think and communicate clearly. (meets MWF 10:00-11:50 am; permission of instructor required). NBIO 722 is divided into three 5-6-week modules. These modules are (A) Introduction to the molecular, cellular, and developmental biology of neurons, (B) Receptors, (C) Ion channels and electrical signaling.
NBIO 724 DEVELOPMENTAL NEUROBIOLOGY (3). This course is designed to provide a comprehensive background to all aspects of developmental neuroscience. The class meets twice a week for 1½ hours each class for one semester. The topics include: neurogenesis, neuronal differentiation, nerve cell migration, glial development, neural stem cells, axon guidance, dendrite formation, synapse formation, cell death, and development of behavior. The class includes study of both invertebrate and vertebrate systems, and combines study of model systems, genetic approaches, imaging methods, and other experimental approaches. The class is restricted to 20 students, and is generally taught to 2nd-year graduate students in the fall semester. The class format includes lectures (~2/3 of the class time) combined with student-faculty discussion of papers (~1/3 of the class time). The course is organized by Franck Polleux, and taught by a small group of instructors who are expert in each topic discussed. Meets TTH 10:30-12:20 pm.
PATH 426 BIOLOGY OF BLOOD DIESEASES (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 disease by the students in the class. This course is cross-listed as Biology 426. Course Director: Frank C. Church, Ph.D. (fchurch@email.unc.edu)
PATH 463 ELECTRON MICROSCOPY (3). This course emphasizes biological transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) methods. Fundamentals of operating transmission and scanning electron microscopes are taught, along with principles of biological specimen preparation, including specimen fixation, embedding, ultramicrotomy, staining - including immunological and cytochemical techniques - plus critical point drying, mounting, and sputter coating of SEM samples. This is a hands-on course created mainly for those who intend to utilize electron microscopy in their work. The Microscopy Services Laboratory has a Zeiss 910 TEM and a Zeiss Supra 25 FESEM. Students learn to operate both of these instruments. Class size is limited. Prerequisite: permission of the instructor. Course Director: C. Robert Bagnell, Ph.D. (bagnell@med.unc.edu).
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. Course Directors: Jonathon W. Homeister, M.D., Ph.D. (homeiste@med.unc.edu), and Alisa S. Wolberg, Ph.D. (alisa_wolberg@med.unc.edu).
PATH 714 MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR PATHOPHYSIOLOGICA BASIS OF DISEASE LABORATORY I (2). This is a graduate pathology laboratory course that serves as the companion to PATH 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. Prerequisite: PATH 713 (this course can be taken concurrently with PATH 713). Course Director: Virginia L. Godfrey, D.V.M., Ph.D. (Virginia.godfrey@pathology.unc.edu).
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. Trejo, Siderovski.
PHCO 722 CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY I. Lecture/discussion course on the physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, and molecular biology of the nervous system. Topics include: function and structure of ion channels, neurotransmitter biosynthesis and release mechanisms, neurotransmitter receptors, and intracellular signaling pathways. (Variable credits) Stuart.
PHCO 722 (A-C). (2). See NBIO 722 (A-C) for course descriptions.
PHCO 724 RAS SUPERFAMILY PROTEINS AND SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION (2). Seminar/discussion course covering recent advances in the role of these proteins in signaling and growth. Der, Cox.
PHCO 725 SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION (2). Seminar/discussion course on molecular aspects of the receptors, G-proteins, effector proteins, kinases, and phosphatases that mediate hormone, neurotransmitter, growth factor, and sensory signaling. Dohlman, Harden.
PHCO 726 ADHESION RECEPTORS AND SIGNALING IN CANCER AND CV DISEASE (2). Examines the growing number of families of cell adhesion receptors and their role in biological processes including signal transduction, control of gene expression, hemostasis, cancer, neuronal development, immunobiology, and embryologic development. Juliano, Parise.
PHCO 727 STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF ION CHANNELS (2).Seminar/discussion course on the physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, and molecular biology of ion channel proteins. Rosenberg, Oxford.
PHCO 728 NEUROPHARMACOLOGY OF ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE (3).A lecture/discussion course on the biological bases of alcohol and substance abuse. Morrow.
PHCO 729 GENE THERAPY: MEDICINE FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY (2). A seminar/discussion course on recent advances in targeted gene delivery and gene therapy. Samulski.
PHCO 735 DISCOVERY BIOLOGY AND PHARMACOGENOMICS (2). Lecture/discussion course covering a variety of aspects of new biological and computational technologies. The course is predominantly in a lecture format with computer-based and literature assignments. Siderovski, Sondek.
PHCO 736 PROTEIN KINASES AS TARGETS FOR NOVEL PHARMACOLOGICAL INHIBITORS (2). A seminar/discussion course to evaluate the use of small molecule inhibitors of protein kinases from a structural and signal transduction perspective. Graves, G. Johnson.
PHYI 703 PHYSIOLOGY: PATHWAY TO EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE (1). A course of modules, each of which may be taken independently of the others. In each, the emphasis is on the basic physiology reinforced by selected applications to medicine. These are required of students entering the Physiology Graduate Program (may be taken in the second year if not taken in the first). Sealock, staff.
PHYI 705 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (1). This course is required for students in the Physiology Program in years 2 and 3. For first-year BBSP students, it will not replace the first-year focus group obligation.
The goals of this class are:
- To develop in each student the ability to speak and write effectively about science –– with ease, clarity, and even pleasure!
- To develop the skill of how to illustrate a talk effectively.
- To eliminate defensiveness in each student in being edited and rehearsed, and to build self confidence in speaking and teaching.
- To demystify various professional duties and give students practice in how they are executed.
These are accomplished through multiple mechanisms: student presentations of PowerPoint and chalk talks, formal rehearsal with class buddies and formal presentations to the faculty, videotaping of the presentations and one-on-one review of the movie with Dr. Stuart, critiques of presentations and writing assignments by Dr, Stuart and by fellow students, critiquing of departmental seminars, training in audience engagement from a person experienced in theater. Each week a different faculty member from the C&M Physiology Department or the Neurobiology Curriculum visits the class to bring a fresh perspective, and a lunch with these "visiting" faculty ends the semester. Dr. Stuart.
PHYI 722 (A-C). (2). See NBIO 722 (A-C) for course descriptions.
TOXC 707- ADVANCED TOXICOLOGY (3). Prerequisite, TOXC or 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. Three lecture hours per week. Toxicology faculty: Swenberg (course director). MWF 9 – 9:50 am.
BIOC 632 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY II (3). See GNET 632 for course description.
BIOC 644 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION, AND GROWTH CONTROL IIAKA SUPERCELL II (3). See CBIO 644 for course description.
BIOC 653 MACROMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY (1). Prerequisites, CHEM 430 and two semesters of physical chemistry or permission of the instructor. Principles of UV, IR, Raman, fluorescence, and spin resonance spectroscopies; applications to the study of macromolecules and membranes. Lentz.
BIOC 662 MACROMOLECULAR INTERACTIONS (1). Prerequisites, BIOC 650-653 or permission of the course director. Theory and practice of biophysical methods used in the study of interactions between macromolecules and their ligands including surface plasmon resonance, analytical ultracentrifugation, and calorimetry. Pielak (course director), Tripathy.
BIOC 663A MACROMOLECULAR NMR THEORY (1). Prerequisite, BIOC 650-653 or permission of the course director. This is the lecture component of a combined lecture/laboratory course that provides a practical introduction to the use of macromolecular NMR spectroscopy. The lecture may be taken independently of the lab (BIOC 152L). Campbell (course director), Pielak, Young.
BIOC 663B MACROMOLECULAR NMR PRACTICE (1). Prerequisite, BIOC 653 or permission of the course director. Lab section for BIOC 152. Campbell (course director), Pielak, Young.
BIOC 667 MACROMOLECULAR CRYSTALLOGRAPHIC METHODS (2). Prerequisite, BIOC 666 or permission of the course director. A combined lecture/laboratory workshop for serious students of protein crystallography. (odd numbered years) Collins (course director), Redinbo, Carter, Sondek.
BIOC 673 PROTEOMICS, PROTEIN IDENTIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION BY MASS SPECTROMETRY (1). Prerequisite, BIOC 144-147 or one semester of Physical Chemistry or permission of instructor. A lecture module that introduces students to the basics of mass spectrometry as applied to protein science. Chen (course director). 843-5310. MWF 11 – 11:50 am, 305 MEJ.
BIOC 678 ELECTRICAL SIGNALS FROM MACROMOLECULAR ASSEMBLAGES (2). Prerequisite, BIOC 147 or permission of course director. An intensive, six hour per week introduction to the fundamentals of ion channel biophysics, including laboratory sessions to demonstrate principles and methods. Oxford (course director), Cheney, Rosenberg, Pallotta, Stuart. (Check Biophysics website for specific dates for BIOC 144-158 modules).
BIOC 700 CURRENT TOPICS IN RNA STRUCTURE, FUNCTION, AND TECHNOLOGY (2). 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 methods for the study of RNA. Fried (course director), Thapar. .
BIOC 701 RESEARCH TOPICS IN BIOCHEMISTRY (3). Seminar and critical study of modern research topics in biochemistry under the supervision of individual biochemistry faculty. Caplow, Fried, staff.
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, staff.
BIOC 712 SCIENTIFIC WRITING (3). Prerequisite, doctoral candidate in biochemistry and biophysics. A course of lectures and workshops on the principles of clear scientific exposition with emphasis on the design and preparation of research grants. G. Sancar (course director), staff.
BIOL 455 BEHAVIORAL NEUROSCIENCE (3). The neurobiological basis of animal behavior at the level of single cells, neural circuits, sensory systems, and organisms. Lecture topics range from principles of cellular neurobiology to ethological field studies. Burmeister S. MWF 11-11:50 am, Wilson 128.
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 9-9:50 am.
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.
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, P. TTH 12:30-1:45 pm, Bingham 103.
BIOl 622 PRINCIPALS OF GENETIC ANALYSIS II (4). See GNET 622 for course description.
BIOL 632 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY II (3). See GNET 632 for course description.
CBIO 644 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION, AND GROWTH CONTROL II AKA SUPERCELL II (3). Comprehensive introduction to cell structure, function, and transformation. Prerequisite, undergraduate cell biology or biochemistry or permission of the instructor.
CBIO 894 ADVANCED CELL BIOLOGY II (4). Literature based discussion course on the application of modern approaches from multiple disciplines to problems in Cell Biology (e.g. Cell Signaling, Cytoskeleton & Motility, Cell Cycle & Cell Death, Cell Differentiation). Emphasis is on small group discussion and dissection of primary literature including methods, scientific logic, and critical thinking. Interested students should contact the course director, Dr. Mohanish Deshmukh (mohanish@med.unc.edu). TTR 3:45-5:45 pm.
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 will be emphasized.
CHEM 432 METABOLIC CHEMISTRY & 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.
CHEM 733 CHEMICAL BIOLOGY (2). Application of chemical principles and tools to study and manipulate biological systems; in-depth exploration of examples from the contemporary literature. Topics include artificial life, new designs for the genetic code, drug design, chemical arrays, single molecule experiments, laboratory-based evolution, chemical sensors, and synthetic biology. Weeks. TTH.
GNET(BCB) 710 GNET COLLOQUIUM (1). Required for First 4 Semesters. M 4-5:00 pm.
GNET(BCB) 713DATA MINING AND CLUSTERING OF BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION (1). This course covers methods of knowledge extraction (association rules, pattern recognition, clustering, classification, prediction) from complex biological data sets. (Jan. 13 – Feb. 10) TTH 11-12:15 pm.
GNET(BCB) 715 MATHEMATICAL AND COMPUTATIONAL APPROACHES TO MODELING SIGNALING PATHWAYS AND REGULATORY NETWORKS (1). This course provides an introduction to the basic mathematical techniques used to develop and analyze models of signaling pathways and genetic networks. Particular attention is paid to the underlying network motifs used to regulate these systems. Both deterministic and stochastic models are discussed. (Mar. 24 – Apr. 21) TTH 11-12:15 pm.
GNET(BCB) 716SEQUENCE ANALYSIS (1). This course is designed to introduce students to the computational analysis of nucleic acids sequences, including sequence comparison, alignment, and assembly. (Feb 12-Mar 19) TTH 11-12:15 pm.
GNET(BCB) 717 STRUCTRUAL BIOINFORMATICS (1). This course introduces methods and techniques for protein modeling including structure determination, protein architecture, approaches to folding simulations, structure prediction, and structure based drug design. (Jan. 13 – Feb. 10) TTH 9-10:15 am.
GNET 622 PRINCIPLES OF GENETIC ANALYSIS IN HUMANS AND MICE (4).Principles of genetic analysis in higher eukaryotes; genomics. This course emphasizes genetic processes that are unique to mammals and that are relevant to human health. The course will move beyond the paradigm centered on characterization of gene function based on null alleles, to how different types of variation at multiple loci affects genetic traits. Topics include mouse as a model genetic system, human Mendelian disease conditions, analysis of complex multi-gene traits, epigenetics, and population genetics. Prerequisite: GNET 621 Principles of Genetic Analysis 1. TTH 12:30 – 1:45 pm. Farber, Pardo-Manuel de Villena. Probable meeting place-Taylor Hall 124.
GNET 632 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY II (3). RNA structure, function, and processing in biological systems including transcription, gene regulation, translation, and oncogenes. Three lecture hours a week. Marzluff, W. MWF 9-9:50 am, Taylor 124.
GNET 710 BIOINFO/COMP COLLOQUIUM. Elston.
MCRO 632 ADVANCED MOLECULAR BIOLOGY II (3). See GNET 632 for course description.
MCRO 640 MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS II (3).Prerequisites, a fundamental understanding of molecular virology and immunology and permission of instructor. Molecular pathogenesis, with a primary focus on viral pathogens. Additional topics include vaccines and genetics of host-pathogen interactions.
MCRO 644 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND GROWTH CONTROL AKA SUPERCELL II (3). See CBIO 644 for course description.
NBIO 723 CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR NEUROBIOLOGY II (2). This course is the linchpin of our curriculum, providing a broad and deep understanding of the current major questions in modern neurobiology and of the approaches being taken to solve them. This course focuses on developing skills of critical thinking and skepticism that are essential in evaluating any paper, poster, or seminar in neurobiology. The emphasis throughout the course is on the experimental basis for our knowledge. The course is intensive, meeting three times per week for two hours each session during both the fall and spring semesters. A faculty member leads the first hour with an interactive lecture, then a student group presents and leads the discussion of a seminal research paper in the second hour. In this way, experimental approaches are evaluated along with the quality and strength of the experimental basis for our understanding. These student presentations of the research papers help them think and communicate clearly. Meets MWF 10 -11:50 am; permission of instructor required. NBIO 723 is divided into two 7-8-week modules. (A) Synaptic mechanisms and plasticity, and (B) Anatomy and function of sensory and motor systems.
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).
PATH 715 MOLECULARY AND CELLULAR PATHOPHYSIOLOGICA 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).
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: Virginia L. Godfrey, D.V.M., Ph.D. (virginia.godfrey@pathology.unc.edu).
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)
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).
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)
PHCO 644 CELL STRUCTURE, FUNCTION, AND GROWTH CONTROL II AKA SUPERCELL II (3). See CBIO 644 for course description.
PHCO 702 PRINCIPLES OF PHARMACOLOGY AND TOXICOLOGY (3). Permission of the instructor required. Introduces students to the major areas of pharmacology and toxicology and serves as a basis for more advanced courses. Three lecture hours a week. Parise.
PHCO 723 (A-B). (2). See NBIO 723 (A-B) for course descriptions.
PHCO 724 RAS SUPERFAMILY PROTEINS AND SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION (2). Seminar/discussion course covering recent advances in the role of these proteins in signaling and growth. Der, Cox.
PHCO 725 SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION (2). Seminar/discussion course on molecular aspects of the receptors, G-proteins, effector proteins, kinases, and phosphatases that mediate hormone, neurotransmitter, growth factor, and sensory signaling. Dohlman, Harden.
PHCO 726 ADHESION RECEPTORS AND SIGNALING IN CANCER AND CV DISEASE (2). Examines the growing number of families of cell adhesion receptors and their role in biological processes including signal transduction, control of gene expression, hemostasis, cancer, neuronal development, immunobiology, and embryologic development. Juliano, Parise.
PHCO 727 STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF ION CHANNELS (2). Seminar/discussion course on the physiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, and molecular biology of ion channel proteins. Rosenberg, Oxford.
PHCO 728 NEUROPHARMACOLOGY OF ALCOHOL AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE (3).A lecture/discussion course on the biological bases of alcohol and substance abuse. Morrow.
PHCO 729 GENE THERAPY: MEDICINE FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY (2). A seminar/discussion course on recent advances in targeted gene delivery and gene therapy. Samulski.
PHCO 735 DISCOVERY BIOLOGY AND PHARMACOGENOMICS (2). Lecture/discussion course covering a variety of aspects of new biological and computational technologies. The course is predominantly in a lecture format with computer-based and literature assignments. Siderovski, Sondek.
PHCO 736 PROTEIN KINASES AS TARGETS FOR NOVEL PHARMACOLOGICAL INHIBITORS (2). A seminar/discussion course to evaluate the use of small molecule inhibitors of protein kinases from a structural and signal transduction perspective. Graves, G. Johnson.
PHCO 737 TARGET-BASED DRUG DISCOVERY AND CANCER TREATMENT (2).A lecture/discussion course that emphasizes preclinical and clinical studies for the development of anti-cancer drugs that target signal transduction. Topics include: target identification and validation, drug discovery, the process of government approval for clinical trials, design of clinical trials, and new genetic-based technologies to foster drug development. Der, Cox.
PHYI 706 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (1). This course is required for students in the Physiology Program in years 2 and 3. For first-year BBSP students, it will not replace the first-year focus group obligation.
The goals of this class are:
- To develop in each student the ability to speak and write effectively about science –– with ease, clarity, and even pleasure!
- To develop the skill of how to illustrate a talk effectively.
- To eliminate defensiveness in each student in being edited and rehearsed, and to build self confidence in speaking and teaching.
- To demystify various professional duties and give students practice in how they are executed.
These are accomplished through multiple mechanisms: student presentations of PowerPoint and chalk talks, formal rehearsal with class buddies and formal presentations to the faculty, videotaping of the presentations and one-on-one review of the movie with Dr. Stuart, critiques of presentations and writing assignments by Dr, Stuart and by fellow students, critiquing of departmental seminars, training in audience engagement from a person experienced in theater. Each week a different faculty member from the C&M Physiology Department or the Neurobiology Curriculum visits the class to bring a fresh perspective, and a lunch with these "visiting" faculty ends the semester. Dr. Stuart.
PHYI 723 (A-B). (2). See NBIO 723 (A-B) for course descriptions.
PHYI 832 RESPIRATORY PHYSIOLOGY: DEFENSE MECHANISMS IN THE AIRWAYS (1-4 credits).Davis, Tarran, and Randell.
PHYI 833 GASTROINTESTINAL PHYSIOLOGY: GROWTH, CANCER, INFLAMMATION, AND THE MICROBIOME (1-3 credits). Lund, Rawls.
TOXC 442 BIOCHEMICAL TOXICOLOGY (3). Biochemical actions of toxicants, and assessment of cellular damage by biochemical measurements. Course intended primarily for graduate students. Prerequisites: Chemistry 130 or equivalent, and one additional biochemistry course (or permission of course director). Rusyn, TTH 3:30 – 4:45 pm.
