120.602.01 INTRODUCTION TO MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Discusses synthesis of macromolecules, the genetic code, regulation of gene expression, and recent advances in biotechnology, emphasizing special contributions from microbial studies and cell-free systems.

This is a graduate level course designed to give the student mastery of the molecular mechanisms underlying key biological processes. The course is taught through lectures, each of which focuses on a particular topic. Students are expected to understand the material covered in each lecture in detail. Because the material includes enzyme mechanisms involved in synthesis of DNA, RNA and proteins, a pre-requisite for the class is previous training in biochemistry or organic chemistry. Each lecture is supplemented by assigned readings from a textbook and by study guide questions that the student should be able to answer without consulting notes in preparation for the in-class exams. At the end of the course students will have a molecular understanding of genome structure, gene regulation, and cell cycle control.