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Academic Year 2005/2006

Light and Life: Vision, Photosynthesis, DNA and Melanoma
MB&B 109 FA

This course is designed to introduce students to biological processes mediated by light. Topics will include the vision process, photosynthesis, UV-mediated DNA damage and repair processes. The course will cover the nature of light and its interaction with matter as an introduction to understanding these topics in photobiology. Causes of global warming and the relationship with photosynthesis will also be discussed. Other topics that will be covered are the role of light in the onset of melanoma and the release of melatonin, and light-activated cancer drugs. In addition, the depletion of the ozone layer and the consequences of this depletion within the context of health problems associated with increased exposure to UV light will also be discussed. This course provides an introduction to the importance of light in the living world for basic biological processes and the dangers of overexposure.

MAJOR READINGS

Selected papers from SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN, THE SCIENTIST and SCIENCE NEWS. Other readings from newspapers and magazine articles.

EXAMINATIONS AND ASSIGNMENTS

Problem sets, two midterms, web page. The final project will be the construction of a web site related to one of the topics discussed in class.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS and/or COMMENTS

Although there are no prerequisites for this course, a good background in science is strongly recommended.

COURSE FORMAT: Lecture

REGISTRATION INFORMATION

Level: UGRD    Credit: 1    Gen Ed Area Dept: NSM MB&B    Grading Mode: Graded   

Prerequisites: NONE Links to Web Resources For This Course.

Last Updated on MAR-30-2006

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