The Biology of Membranes

3 units

Biomembrane composition and structure determine its function. This class examines membrane components, their organization into general cell membrane structures / domains, and functions. You will appreciate the various roles membrane lipids play in constructing membranes and in signal transduction. Cholesterol is an important membrane lipid that is linked to biomembranes structurally and functionally. Misregulation of transport or trafficking of lipids, including cholesterol, contributes to many human diseases. You will learn historical background and recent advances in membrane biology, following the path taken by cholesterol and other lipids. You will also learn how to critically evaluate primary research and literature reviews on membrane biology. This course is open to MA in Biology students as 5722, and undergraduates as 4722. This course does not count toward the undergraduate biology major, but undergrads are welcome to enroll.