Biology 191 - Molecules, Genes and Cells

An introduction to the molecular and cellular processes common to life with an emphasis on control of energy and information flow. Central themes include metabolism, macromolecular function, and the genetic basis of cellular function. We examine how membranes work to establish the internal composition of cells; how the structure of proteins including enzymes affects protein function; how energy is captured, stored and utilized by cells; and how cells communicate, move and divide. We explore inheritance patterns and underlying molecular mechanisms of genetics, the central dogma of information transfer from DNA replication to protein synthesis, and recombinant DNA methods and medical applications. Laboratories include genetic analyses, enzyme reaction kinetics, membrane transport, and genomic analysis. Two hours of lecture, two hours of team-based learning, and three laboratory hours per week.

Requisite: Prior completion of, or concurrent registration in, CHEM 161 or CHEM 165. Limited to 96 students. Fall semester: Professors Goutte and Tashjian, Lab Coordinator Bowers. Spring semester: Professors Purdy and Ragkousi, Lab Coordinators Bowers and Kristensen. 

Please note that the same textbook is used for both BIOL 181 and BIOL 191.

How to handle overenrollment: Priority by seniority

Students who enroll in this course will likely encounter and be expected to engage in the following intellectual skills, modes of learning, and assessment: Learning in Biol-191 is facilitated by two lectures per week, in addition to group work that is emphasized in both the laboratory and discussion (team-based learning) sections. Assessments include individual exams, team quizzes, lab reports/worksheets, and participation in team-based learning activities. A vital component of this course is individual, student preparation for all class and lab meetings, including reading assigned pages in the textbook and lab manual and reviewing all materials posted on course Moodle site.