BIOMG 4320
Survey of Cell Biology
Survey of a wide array of topics focusing on the general properties of eukaryotic cells. Topics include methods used for studying cells, the structure and function of the major cellular organelles, and analyses of cellular processes such as mitosis, endocytosis, cell motility, secretion, cell-to-cell communication, gene expression, and oncogenesis. Some of the material is covered in greater depth in BIOMG 4370, BIOMG 4380, BIOMG 6360, and BIOMG 6390.
Topics
- Describe the molecular function and make-up of the major organelles and structures in a eukaryotic cell, including the nucleus, the cytoskeleton, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, trafficking vesicles, lysozymes, mitochondria, membranes, and chromatin.
- Explain the dynamic processes that underlie vesicular trafficking, endocytosis, the expression of genes, and inter- and intra-molecular signaling; Identify key molecular players in each process.
- Name the methods used to study the above structures and processes, including molecular biology and molecular genetics, transfection of living cells, fluorescence and electron microscopy, subcellular fractionation, and detection of specific proteins using antibodies and green fluorescent protein fusions; Explain the principle of each method; Interpret results of experiments utilizing these methods.
- Explain the experimental underpinnings of the current models for processes common to all eukaryotic cells.
Official roster learning outcomes
Prerequisites & course information
BIOMG 3300 or BIOMG 3330 or BIOMG 3350 or BIOMG 3310.
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027
- Catalogue entry ↗
Catalogue variants
- Survey of Cell Biology · 3.0 · Undergraduate