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Academic Year 2000/2001

Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory
BIOL 250 FA
Crosslistings:
NS&B 250

In recent years, an explosion of new immunological, biochemical and microscopic techniques have revolutionized the way neuroscientists study brain structure and function. The goal of this project-based laboratory course is to introduce students to some of the modern cellular and molecular approaches currently used to study the organization and development of the brain. Students will work in pairs to carry out a project focusing on methods to detect apoptosis and related signal transduction events. Durin g the course, students will learn to propagate cell lines in culture, section brain tissue and stain it with antibodies using fluorescence and light microscopic immunocytochemistry, and analyze proteins by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Wester n blotting, and perform in situ analyses of DNA-fragmentation, indicative of neuronal cell death.

MAJOR READINGS

Readings to be taken from current scientific literature.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Laboratory notebook, lab reports, class presentations, 3-4 short essays, lab method practical exam.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

The time in the laboratory and outside readings are estimated to take approximately 6-8 hours/week. Because of the project-oriented nature of the course, students will be expected to return to the lab at various times during the week to complete experiments. Permission of instructor required for enrollment in course. Unless preregistered students attend the first class meeting or communicate directly with the instructor prior to the first class, they will be dropped from the class list. NOTE: S tudents must still submit a completed Drop/Add form to the Registrar's Office.

COURSE FORMAT: Laboratory

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: NSM BIOL    Grading Mode: Student Option   

Prerequisites: (MB&B205 AND BIOL206) OR NS&B213 Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-26-2001

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