Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (B.A. or B.S.)

Introductory Courses

* MCDB 040b, The Science and Politics of Cancer  Robert Bazell

Fundamentals of cell biology, Darwinian evolution, immunology, and genetics that underlie cancer; the history of cancer science and treatment; historical and current policy issues. Enrollment limited to first-year students. Preregistration required; see under First-Year Seminar Program.  SC
TTh 1pm-2:15pm

* MCDB 050a, Immunology and Microbes  Paula Kavathas

Introduction to the immune system and its interaction with specific microbes. Attention both to microbes that cause illness, such as influenza, HIV, and HPV, and to microbes that live in harmony with humans, collectively called the microbiome. Readings include novels and historical works on diseases such as polio and AIDS. Enrollment limited to first-year students. Preregistration required; see under First-Year Seminar Program.  SC  RP
TTh 2:30pm-3:45pm

* MCDB 065a, The Science and Politics of HIV/AIDS  Robert Bazell

Study of the basic virology and immunology of HIV/AIDS, along with its extraordinary historical and social effects. Issues include the threat of new epidemics emerging from a changing global environment; the potential harm of conspiracy theories based on false science; and how stigmas associated with poverty, gender inequality, sexual preference, and race facilitate an ongoing epidemic. For all first-year students regardless of whether they are considering a science major. Prerequisite: AP Biology or equivalent. Enrollment limited to first-year students. Preregistration required; see under First-Year Seminar Program.  SC
TTh 2:30pm-3:45pm

* MCDB 103b, Cancer  Alexia Belperron

Introduction to the biology of cancer, with a focus on the genetic basis of cancer, the role carcinogens, genetics and infectious diseases play in the development of cancer, the role of the immune system in controlling cancer and how it can be harnessed in new novel treatments, the basic biochemistry behind chemotherapy, and the basic biology behind preventative strategies. Intended for non–science majors and underclassmen. High school biology required.  SC
MW 1pm-2:15pm

MCDB 105a or b / MB&B 105a or b, Biology, the World, and Us  Staff

Biological concepts taught in context of current societal issues, such as emerging diseases, genetically modified organisms, green energy, and the human brain and its disorders. Emphasis on biological literacy to enable students to evaluate scientific arguments.  SC
HTBA

* MCDB 106a / E&EB 106a / HLTH 155a, Biology of Malaria, Lyme, and Other Vector-Borne Diseases  Alexia Belperron

Introduction to the biology of pathogen transmission from one organism to another by insects; special focus on malaria, dengue, and Lyme disease. Biology of the pathogens including modes of transmission, establishment of infection, and immune responses; the challenges associated with vector control, prevention, development of vaccines, and treatments. Intended for non–science majors; preference to freshmen and sophomores. Prerequisite: high school biology.  SC
MW 1pm-2:15pm

* MCDB 109b, Immunity and Contagion  Paula Kavathas

Introduction to the basics of the immune system; strategies to fight pathogens while maintaining harmony with our microbiome. Discussion of specific microbes such as influenza, HIV, and HPV; historical analysis of the polio vaccine and the AIDS epidemic. Enrollment limited to freshmen and sophomores.  SC
TTh 2:30pm-3:20pm

* MCDB 175Lb, Exploring the Microbial World  Iain Dawson

This course is designed to provide an immersive, introductory biology lab for first years and sophomores. Students conduct semester long projects to develop methods and tools to study the growth patterns of an unusual filamentous bacteria, Bacillus mycoides. Biol 101-104 is a co- or-prerequisite. Restricted to first year and sophomore students. Preference given to students with no prior research experience. Instructor permission required.  SC  ½ Course cr
M 2:30pm-5:30pm

MCDB 200b, Molecular Biology  Anna Pyle and Farren Isaacs

A study of the fundamental principles of molecular biology, including the experimental methodologies used in biological research. Topics include the structure, function, and chemical behavior of biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, and protein), chromosome and genome organization, replication and maintenance of the genome, transcriptional and translational regulation, microRNAs and other noncoding RNAs, RNA processing, systems biology, and synthetic biology. Designed to provide an accelerated venue for MCDB majors and other students seeking to understand the molecular basis for gene expression and the resultant implications for medicine and biological engineering. Prerequisites: CHEM 161, 165, or 167 (or CHEM 112, 114, or 118), and BIOL 101 or permission of instructor.  SC
MW 9am-10:15am

* MCDB 201Lb, Molecular Biology Laboratory  Maria Moreno

Basic molecular biology training in a project-based laboratory setting. Experiments analyze gene function through techniques of PCR, plasmid and cDNA cloning, DNA sequence analysis, and protein expression and purification. Instruction in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation. Concurrently with or after MCDB 200, or with permission from instructor. For freshmen and sophomores interested in research integrated laboratory experience. Special registration procedures apply. Interested students must contact the instructor and attend an organizational meeting during the first week of classes.  WR, SC  ½ Course cr
HTBA

* MCDB 202a, Genetics  Stephen Dellaporta and Joshua Gendron

An introduction to classical, molecular, and population genetics of both prokaryotes and eukaryotes and their central importance in biological sciences. Emphasis on analytical approaches and techniques of genetics used to investigate mechanisms of heredity and variation. Topics include transmission genetics, cytogenetics, DNA structure and function, recombination, gene mutation, selection, and recombinant DNA technology. Prerequisite: BIOL 103 or equivalent performance on the corresponding biological sciences placement examination.  SC  RP
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

* MCDB 203La, Laboratory for Genetics  Iain Dawson

Introduction to laboratory techniques used in genetic analysis. Genetic model organisms—bacteria, yeast, Drosophila, and Arabidopsis—are used to provide practical experience with various classical and molecular genetic techniques including cytogenetics; complementation, epistasis, and genetic suppressors; mutagenesis and mutant analysis, recombination and gene mapping, isolation and manipulation of DNA, and transformation of model organisms. Concurrently with or after MCDB 202.  SC  ½ Course cr
HTBA

MCDB 205b, Cell Biology  Thomas Pollard, Megan King, Shirin Bahmanyar, and David Breslow

A comprehensive introductory course in cell biology. Emphasis on the general principles that explain the molecular mechanisms of cellular function. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 and 102, or equivalent performance on the corresponding biological sciences placement examinations, or a score of 5 on the Advanced Placement test in Biology, or a score of 710 or above on the SAT Biology M test, or MCDB 200.  SC
TTh 9am-10:15am

MCDB 210a, Developmental Biology  Scott Holley and Douglas Kankel

A survey of the molecular and genetic control of embryonic development, cell-cell communication, and cell differentiation. Emphasis on mechanistic investigation in model organisms that reveal fundamental concepts explaining human birth defects and disease. Topics include gastrulation; neural and mesoderm induction; limb development; heart and vascular development; craniofacial development; adult and embryonic stem cells; regeneration; evolution and development. Prerequisites: BIOL 101, 102, and 103, or equivalent performance on the corresponding biological sciences placement examinations.  SC
TTh 1pm-2:15pm

MCDB 221La, Model Organisms in Biological Research  Maria Moreno

An introduction to research and common methodologies in the biological sciences, with emphasis on the utility of model organisms. Techniques and methods commonly used in biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, and molecular and developmental biology; experimental design; data analysis and display; scientific writing. With permission of instructor or concurrently with or after BIOL 101, 102 or 103.  WR, SC  ½ Course cr
HTBA

MCDB 250b, Biology of Reproduction  Hugh Taylor and Seth Guller

Introduction to reproductive biology, with emphasis on human reproduction. Development and hormonal regulation of reproductive systems; sexuality, fertilization, and pregnancy; modern diagnosis and treatment of reproductive and developmental disorders; social and ethical issues. BIOL 101, 102, and 103, or equivalent performance on the corresponding biological sciences placement examinations, or a score of 5 on the Advanced Placement test in Biology, or a score of 710 or above on the SAT Biology M test  SC
MWF 10:30am-11:20am

MCDB 251Lb, Laboratory for Biology of Reproduction and Development  Seth Guller, Hugh Taylor, and Shannon Whirledge

Laboratory focus on aspects of human reproductive biology and connections with normal reproductive outcomes. Clinically relevant consideration of human tissue and cell models to study ovarian, uterine, and placental structure and function. Testing of the role of tissue specific cellular differentiation; human trophoblast function; and the roles of steroid hormones in the regulation of uterine, placental, and ovarian function. Mouse tissue models will be employed. Enrollment limited. Concurrently with or after MCDB 210 or 250. Not open to first-year students. Special registration procedures apply; students must consult the instructor prior to the first week of classes.  SC  ½ Course cr
HTBA

MCDB 290b, Microbiology  John Wertz and Murat Acar

Cell structure of bacteria, bacterial genetics, microbial evolution and diversity, bacterial development, microbial interaction, chemotaxis and motility, gene regulation, microbial genomics and proteomics, CRISPR, metabolism, infectious diseases, mechanisms of pathogenesis, host defense systems, viruses, gut microbiota in health and disease. Prerequisites: BIOL 101, 102, and 103, or equivalent performance on the corresponding biological sciences placement examinations; or one term of biochemistry, or cell biology, or genetics; or with permission of instructor.  SC
TTh 1pm-2:15pm

* MCDB 291Lb, Laboratory for Microbiology  Iain Dawson

Practical approaches used when working with microbes, primarily bacteria. Topics include microscopy, culture techniques, biochemical/metabolic assays, and basic environmental and medical microbiology. Concurrently with or after MCDB 290. Electronic permission key required; students should contact the instructor prior to the first class meeting.  SC  ½ Course cr
T 2:30pm-5:30pm

* MCDB 300a / MB&B 200a, Biochemistry  Ronald Breaker and Donald Engelman

An introduction to the biochemistry of animals, plants, and microorganisms, emphasizing the relations of chemical principles and structure to the evolution and regulation of living systems. Prerequisites: BIOL 101 or equivalent performance on the corresponding biological sciences placement examination; one term of organic chemistry; or with permission of instructor.  SC
MWF 9:25am-10:15am

* MCDB 301La or b / MB&B 251La or b, Laboratory for Biochemistry  Aruna Pawashe and Staff

An introduction to current experimental methods in molecular biology, biophysics, and biochemistry. Limited enrollment. Requires preregistration by e-mail to and prior to the first week of classes. Please note: During the fall term, this course runs as two sections, Tuesday or Thursday from 1.15pm-5.15pm, for the entire semester. During the spring term it meets twice a week, Tuesday and Thursday, but only for the first half of the semester. Prerequisite: BIOL 101.  SC  ½ Course cr
HTBA

* MCDB 303Lb, Advanced Molecular Biology Laboratory  Maria Moreno and Kenneth Nelson

A laboratory course that provides advanced biology research skills. Weekly workshops focus on laboratory practice, experimental design, data analysis, reading of primary literature, scientific presentations, and scientific writing skills. Application of these skills in project-based laboratory training sponsored by a faculty member. Enrollment limited. Special registration procedures apply; interested students must contact the instructor and attend an organizational meeting. This class is recommended to students in the sciences who are in their junior year and will be completing a senior research project requirement for graduation.  SC  RP
HTBA

* MCDB 310a / BENG 350a, Physiological Systems  Mark Saltzman and Stuart Campbell

Regulation and control in biological systems, emphasizing human physiology and principles of feedback. Biomechanical properties of tissues emphasizing the structural basis of physiological control. Conversion of chemical energy into work in light of metabolic control and temperature regulation. Prerequisites: CHEM 165 or 167 (or CHEM 113 or 115), or PHYS 180 and 181; MCDB 120, or BIOL 101 and 102.  SC
MWF 9:25am-10:15am

MCDB 315b, Pathobiology  S. David Hudnall, Jon Morrow, Anita Huttner, Jeffrey Sklar, and Gilbert Moeckel

Mechanisms of human disease from a pathologic perspective. Includes sections devoted to systemic pathobiology, hematologic disease, gastrointestinal disease, renal disease, and cancer genetics. Subjects covered include cell and tissue injury, disordered physiology, inflammatory disease, and neoplastic disease. Enrollment limited; preference to junior and senior majors in MCDB or MB&B. Prerequisites: MCDB 205, 300, or 310  SC  RP
TTh 11:35am-12:50pm

MCDB 320a / NSCI 320a, Neurobiology  Haig Keshishian and Paul Forscher

The excitability of the nerve cell membrane as a starting point for the study of molecular, cellular, and systems-level mechanisms underlying the generation and control of behavior. Prerequisites: year of college-level chemistry; a course in physics is strongly recommended.  SC
MWF 11:35am-12:25pm

MCDB 321La / NSCI 321La, Laboratory for Neurobiology  Haig Keshishian, Robert Wyman, and Paul Forscher

Introduction to the neurosciences. Projects include the study of neuronal excitability, sensory transduction, CNS function, synaptic physiology, and neuroanatomy. Concurrently with or after MCDB 320.  SC  ½ Course cr
HTBA

MCDB 330a / MB&B 330a / NSCI 324a, Modeling Biological Systems I  Thierry Emonet and Kathryn Miller-Jensen

Study of the analytic and computational skills needed to model genetic networks and protein signaling pathways. Review of basic biochemical concepts including chemical reactions, ligand binding to receptors, cooperativity, and Michaelis-Menten enzyme kinetics. Deep exploration of biological systems including: kinetics of RNA and protein synthesis and degradation; transcription activators and repressors; lyosogeny/lysis switch of lambda phage and the roles of cooperativity and feedback; network motifs such as feed-forward networks and how they shape response dynamics; cell signaling, MAP kinase networks and cell fate decisions; bacterial chemotaxis; and noise in gene expression and phenotypic variability. Students learn to model using MatLab in a series of in-class hackathons that illustrate biological examples discussed in lectures. Prerequisites: BIOL 101-104, or with permission of instructors.  QR, SC
TTh 2:30pm-3:45pm

* MCDB 342La, Laboratory in Nucleic Acids I  Kenneth Nelson

A project from a research laboratory within the MCDB department, using technologies from molecular and cell biology. Laboratories meet twice a week for the first half of the term. Concurrently with or after MCDB 202, 205, or 300. Enrollment limited. Special registration procedures apply; students should contact the instructor during January of the year you intend to take the course.  SC  ½ Course cr
TTh 1:30pm-4:30pm

* MCDB 343La, Laboratory in Nucleic Acids II  Kenneth Nelson

Continuation of MCDB 342L to more advanced projects in molecular and cell biology, such as making and screening cDNA libraries, microarray screening and analysis, or next-generation DNA sequencing. Laboratories meet twice a week for the second half of the term. Enrollment limited. Special registration procedures apply; students should contact the instructor during January of the year you intend to take the course. MCDB 342L or permission of instructor.  SC  ½ Course cr
TTh 1:30pm-4:30pm

* MCDB 344Lb, Experimental Techniques in Cellular Biology  Joseph Wolenski

. An inquiry-based approach to research in cell and molecular biology, with emphasis on experimental techniques commonly used in modern biomedical laboratories