BIOLOGY 222
CELL BIOLOGY

1. Catalog Entry

Biology 341. Cell Biology
Three hours lecture; three hours laboratory (4).

Prerequisite: Chem 102, and either Biol 121 or Biol 105

Introduction to cell, the fundamental unit of biological organization of the five kingdoms of organisms. Structure and function of the cell described, analyzed and integrated. Emphasis on the basic physiochemical phenomena important in understanding structural organization and metabolic cellular processes.

2. Detailed Description of Content of Course

Topics to be covered in lecture may include:

1. Cell types and techniques for studying them
2. The molecules of cells
3. Enzymes and metabolism
4. Energy flow and metabolism-photosynthesis, respiration
5. Membrane structure and function
6. Cellular organization: The Cytoskeleton
7. Cell heredity
8. Function of genes, protein synthesis and transport
9. Regulation of gene expression in prokaryotes
10. Regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes
11. Nuclear structure and function: Chromosomes, and cell cycles
12. Cell reproduction
13. The cell biology of cancer
14. Cell motility
15. Function and structure of some specialized cells
16. Origin and evolution of cells

Topics to be covered in the laboratory may include:

1. Microscopy
2. Cellular transport: Part I. Passive transport
3. Cellular transport: Part II. Active transport
4. Quantification of protein: Biuret Assay and UV
5. Cytochemical staining of cellular carbohydrates
6. Enzymes
7. Isolation and identification of mitochondria
8. Chloroplasts and function
9. Isolation of DNA and UV spectrophotometric analysis of DNA
10. Short term leukocyte culture and human karyotype
11. Cytoskeleton: Immunofluorescence microscopy
12. Electrophoresis
13. Mitosis and cell reproduction
14. Field trip: Visit to the Ultrastructure Laboratory at VPI
15. Use of radioisotopes in Cell Biology

3. Detailed Description of the Conduct of the Course

The course will consist of formal lectures, laboratory experiments, and field trips in cell biology. Assignments in the computer center may be a part of the course. Some form of laboratory reports will be expected. Writing to learn excercises may be included in the classroom experience.

4. Goals and Objectives of the Course

Having successfully completed this course, the student will be able to demonstrate knowledge of cellular organization and function. The student will also be able to carry out laboratory experiments using the major techniques of cell biologists. The successful student will be able to write effectively on the subject of cell biology, to organize his thoughts and develop an argument, and to demonstrate critical thinking.

5. Assessment Measures

• Analysis of quizzes, writing to learn assignments, essay intensive examinations, laboratory quizzes, reports, and practical examinations.
• Analysis of skills in comprehending, synthesizing, and articulating course content.
• Analysis of students' expertise in critical thinking.

6. Other Course Information

The Computer Center in biology will be available for students of this course.

7. Review and Approval

DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
September 2001 Dr. Charles M. Neal, Chair