BIO 3150 - BIOLOGY OF CANCER

credits: 3.0
An in-depth look at the biological principles of cancer, its development and treatment. Emphasizing clinical implications, the course will explore current research and advances in oncogenesis, basic mechanisms of malignant cells, molecular abnormalities and treatment. Topics include malignant transformations, tumor genetics, cancer growth, metastasis, pathogenesis of systemic malignancies, and the molecular basis for cancer therapy. Objectives: A) Provide students with a greater understanding of the biological principles of cancer and the human dimensions of the disease; B) Introduce students to the molecular and clinical biology of oncogenesis and the pathogenesis of cancer; C) Emphasize the current research techniques used to investigate the molecular etiology and treatment of cancer; D) Expose students to the primary scientific literature and to provide practical experience in the practice of writing for the biological sciences. Method of Instruction: Lecture, discussion groups, group exploration of clinical based problems (documented cases), literature research and discussion. Method of Evaluation: Two major exams (30%), final literature review (25%), three clinical case reports (15%), four article critiques from scholarly journals (10%), and participation in class discussions (20%). Meets *WRT Distribution Requirement.

Prerequisite(s): BIO 2600 - MOLECULAR CELL