Cellular Membrance Biology

(5 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This module covers the structure and function of biological membranes, the cytoskeleton, related signal transduction pathways and associated pathological conditions important in human health. The module is covers three central themes, membrane structure, the cytoskeleton, Bioenergetcis and Signalling. Topics will include: (i) the structure, function and organization of membranes & membrane proteins, (ii) the bioenergetic and transport processes that occur across membranes, (iii) an introduction to the tubulin, intermediate and actin- based cytoskeleton, (iv) a review of cell signalling pathways from a mechanistic and functional viewpoint. The module will include the following laboratory sessions. (i) Use of spectrophotometry to determine an important physical constant of a buffer (pKa ), (ii) An Introduction to cell culture, (iii) The use of radioisotopes in research, cAMP ligand binding studies, (iv) Mitochondrial swelling assays for transport across the mitochondrial inner membrane.