BIO 3500 - DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY

credits: 4.0
Must be taken with BIO 3500L, Lab. The current field of developmental biology has made tremendous advances from examining the genes and molecular events that control development to the structural changes that an organism undergoes as it develops. Additionally, environmental factors that affect the outcome of development have also become an important consideration in current developmental research. This course explores the development of invertebrates from gamete production through the differentiation of tissues, organs and the complete embryo, including an examination of the impact of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on the developing organism. Course evaluation based on four exams and formal written reports. Objectives: The primary objectives of this course are to examine the entire organism as a function of time, specifically how a single cell, the fertilized egg, develops through time to form a complex multi-cellular organism. Through lecture, demonstrations, and laboratory exercises, students will observe and understand the following: A) Gamete formation and fertilization; B) Stages of early zygote development through gastrulation; C) Roles of differential gene expression and cell to cell communication; D) Development of tissues, organs and organ systems; E) Sex determination; F) Environmental regulation of development. Method of Instruction: Lecture, laboratory activities, and team projects. Method of Evaluation: Written exams (65%) and individually prepared laboratory reports written in journal style on experimental team projects (35%).

Prerequisite(s): BIO 2600 - MOLECULAR CELL is required. BIO 2010 - COMPARATIVE ANATOMY, is recommended.
Co-Requisite(s): BIO 3500L.