Please note:

To view the Spring 2024 Academic Calendar, go to www.sfu.ca/students/calendar/2024/spring.html.

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Courses

MBB 110 - Data Analysis for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (3)

Introductory data analysis focusing on molecular biology data sets and examples and including basic programming skills using Python and basic statistics skills using R. Prerequisite: MATH 12 or equivalent is recommended. Students with credit for MBB 243 may not take this course for further credit. CMPT 120 will be accepted in lieu of MBB 110.

MBB 151 - Practicum I (3)

First term of work experience in the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Co-operative Education Program. Units from this course do not count towards the units required for an SFU degree. Prerequisite: Acceptance in the Science Co-operative Education Program.

MBB 200 - Selected Topics in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (3)

The topics in this course will vary from term to term, depending on faculty availability and student interest. Prerequisite: Will be announced before the start of the term and will depend upon the nature of the topic offered.

MBB 201 - Biochemistry of the Cell (3)

An introduction to cellular processes with an emphasis on protein structure and function. Topics that will be explored include transcription, translation and protein synthesis, basic metabolic pathways, biomembranes, organelles, vesicle transport, the cytoskeleton and cell signaling. Prerequisite: BISC 101; CHEM 281 as prerequisite or corequisite.

MBB 222 - Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (3)

The structure, function and synthesis of proteins, RNA and DNA and their interrelated biological functions within the cell. An introduction to molecular biology techniques and methods of protein purification and analysis. Prerequisite: or Corequisite CHEM 281.

MBB 229 - Introductory Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Laboratory (2)

Practical course providing hands-on experience in fundamental molecular biology and biochemistry techniques including DNA isolation, restriction enzyme digestion, transformation, polymerase chain reaction, DNA and protein electrophoresis and immunofluorescence. Prerequisite: or Corequisite: MBB 222. Students who have taken MBB 308 or MBB 309 first may not then take this course for further credit.

MBB 231 - Cellular Biology and Biochemistry (3)

A study of the molecular processes which underlie cell structure and function, integrating ultrastructural, physiological and biochemical approaches. Modern techniques used in the analysis of organelle and cell function are integral parts of the course. Prerequisite: MBB 222, BISC 101, CHEM 281 with grades of C- or better. Corequisite or Prerequisite: CHEM 282 or CHEM 283.

MBB 251 - Practicum II (3)

Second term of work experience in the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Co-operative Education Program. Units from this course do not count towards the units required for an SFU degree. Prerequisite: Acceptance in the Science Co-operative Education Program.

MBB 301 - Bioscience of Science Fiction (3)

Students from all faculties (including science) will work together in a team-based approach to understand the fundamentals of cell biology and molecular biology in the context of science fiction literature. Prerequisite: Minimum of 30 units. Breadth-Humanities/Sciences.

MBB 302 - Energy: From Cells to Society (3)

Energy flow drove the origin of life and is required to sustain life. From molecular machines to ecosystems, the capture and flow of energy defines life. Human use of fossil fuels is explored as a transformative evolutionary development. Prerequisite: 45 units. This course is only open to students in the Faculties of Applied Sciences, Arts and Social Sciences, Communication, Art and Technology, Education, Environment, Beedie School of Business and Health Sciences (Bachelor of Arts Degree Program only). Breadth-Science.

MBB 308 - Molecular Biology Laboratory (3)

Modern molecular biological and recombinant nucleic acid methods will be covered. Examples are DNA and RNA isolation, plasmid preparation, restriction enzyme digestion, DNA cloning and polymerase chain reaction. Prerequisite: or corequisite: MBB 331 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for BISC 357 may not take this course for further credit.

MBB 309W - Biochemistry Laboratory (4)

Contemporary techniques in biochemistry including protein purification, immunochemical methods, and lipid characterization. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C. Recommended: CHEM 215 and CHEM 286 precede MBB 309W. Writing.

MBB 321 - Intermediary Metabolism (3)

The enzymes and intermediates of major catabolic and anabolic pathways. Their regulation and integration in health and disease states. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 322 - Molecular Physiology (3)

Biochemical and molecular aspects of cellular function, interactions and communication including cell cycle, apoptosis, cancer, neuronal transmission and the signal transduction pathways that integrate them. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 323 - Introduction to Physical Biochemistry (3)

Introduction to physical biochemistry including thermodynamics, spectroscopic principles and applications, and molecular transport and interactions. The physical properties and structure determination of biomolecules will be emphasized. Prerequisite: MATH 152 (or 155), PHYS 121 (or 102, or 126, or 141), CHEM 122 (or 102), MBB 222 with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 324 - Protein Biochemistry (3)

An exploration of the fundamental aspects of proteins; their chemical and physical nature, their synthesis, stability and turnover, as well as their structure and function. Methods of protein analysis and structure determination will be presented. Prerequisite: MBB 222 with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 326 - Introduction to the Immune System (3)

Introduction to the structure and function of the immune system and how this system protects against microbial infections. Innate immune responses, including the function of innate immune cells, receptors and complement. Adaptive immune responses, including the organization of lymphoid organs, development and function of T and B cells, and antibodies. Prerequisite: MBB 231 with a minimum grade of C. Students with credit for HSCI 426, MBB 426 or HSCI 326 may not take this course for further credit.

MBB 328 - Introduction to Microbial Pathogenesis (3)

The molecular strategies that bacterial and viral pathogens use to colonize the human body and cause disease will be studied. Emphasis will be placed on the specific microbes and their virulence factors, secretion systems, toxins and surface adhesions. Strategies for combating microbial infections - antibiotics, antiviral agents and vaccines - will be discussed in detail. Prerequisite: MBB 231 with a minimum grade of C. Students with credit for MBB 428 may not take this course for further credit.

MBB 331 - Molecular Biology (4)

The study of DNA and RNA in relation to gene structure and expression: DNA replication and the regulation of gene expression in bacteria and higher organisms. Introduction to recombinant DNA and cloning theory; natural vector structures and recombinant vector construction. Prerequisite: MBB 231, and BISC 202, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 342 - Introductory Genomics and Bioinformatics (3)

Major topics in genomics and bioinformatics, with integrated discussion of associated ethical/legal/social issues. An overview of laboratory and computer-based methods to study genomes, and their applications. Hands-on computer lab session providing an opportunity to use and experiment with bioinformatics software and databases utilized in genomics and bioinformatics research. Prerequisite: MBB 231, BISC 202 and either MBB 243 or 3 units of CMPT or equivalent, all with a minimum grade of C. Recommended: STAT 201 (or an equivalent statistics course) or STAT 270.

MBB 343 - Data Science Laboratory for Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (2)

Hands-on application of modern tools and methods for data acquisition, management, visualization, and machine learning, capable of scaling to Big Data. No prior computer programming experience required. Examples will draw from the life sciences. Prerequisite: MBB 222 and one of STAT 201, STAT 203, STAT 205, or STAT 270 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor. Corequisite: STAT 320. Students who have taken STAT 240, STAT 310, or STAT 440 first may not then take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

MBB 351 - Practicum III (3)

Third term of work experience in the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Co-operative Education Program. Units from this course do not count towards the units required for an SFU degree. Prerequisite: Acceptance in the Science Co-operative Education Program.

MBB 400 - Special Topics in Biotechnology and Business (1)

A survey of the legal, economic and social aspects of technology transfer in the areas of molecular biology, biochemistry, and biotechnology presented by a series of local experts. Topics will include patents, contracts, intellectual property, capitalization and others. The format will be a formal lecture followed by a workshop. Prerequisite: Completion of the second year in the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and Business Administration joint major or equivalent experience.

MBB 402 - Cell Signalling in Development and Disease (3)

A mechanistic study of signal transduction pathways, their roles in development and disease with an emphasis on current literature. Prerequisite: MBB 322 or BISC 302W or BISC 333, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 420 - Selected Topics in Contemporary Biochemistry (3)

MBB 421 - Nucleic Acids (3)

Recent literature is examined for insights into the structure and properties of DNA and RNA, drawing on a variety of biochemical, chemical and molecular biological perspectives. Prerequisite: MBB 331 with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 422 - Biomembranes (3)

A review of recent research on the structure, dynamics, function and biosynthesis of membranes, membrane lipids and proteins. Prerequisite: MBB 322 and MBB 309W with a minimum grade of C, MBB 324 as a pre or co-requisite.

MBB 423 - Protein Structure and Function (3)

Mechanistic principles for how protein molecules achieve diverse functions such as chemical catalysis and conformational switching. Students will learn to critique hypotheses about structural mechanisms, and to interpret the primary literature reporting on structural evidence from X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy. Prerequisite: MBB 323 or MBB 324, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 424 - Membrane Transport Mechanisms (3)

Structure and function of molecules that mediate transport across membranes including channels, carriers, and pumps. Primary literature from the fields of biochemistry and physiology will be explored through lectures and independent study. Prerequisite: MBB 321, and any two of MBB 322, MBB 323, MBB 324, CHEM 360, with a minimum grade of C, or permission of the instructor.

MBB 427 - Immune Responses in Health and Disease (3)

Defects in the immunologic response to bacterial, viral and parasitic infections. The mechanisms of action of vaccines. The causes of immune-mediated diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, hypersensitivity reactions (including asthma and allergy) and organ transplant rejection. The reaction of the immune system to cancer and immunotherapy for cancer. Prerequisite: One of MBB 326, HSCI 326, MBB 426 or HSCI 426, with a minimum grade of C, or permission of the instructor. Students with credit for HSCI 427 cannot take MBB 427 for credit.

MBB 429 - RNA-mediated Gene Regulation (3)

RNA plays an important role in gene regulation. This course will explore recent primary literature studying the biochemistry of these processes. Prerequisite: MBB 331 with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 430 - Mechanisms of Secretory Transport (3)

Analysis of mechanisms of protein, lipid, and nucleic acid delivery and transport within cells; processes of protein targeting, exocytosis, and endocytosis; molecular mechanisms of vesicle transport and membrane fusion; role in signal transduction and disease. Prerequisite: MBB 322 and MBB 331, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 431 - Cells and the Environment (3)

The cellular processes at the interface of cells and the environment will be explored in-depth. Through the use of lectures and group discussions and an emphasis on the primary literature, the focus will be on recent developments in molecular cell biology through the study of symbiosis and adaptation. Prerequisite: MBB 322 and 331, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 432 - Advanced Molecular Biology Techniques (4)

Laboratory with accompanying lectures designed to give practical experience in advanced contemporary molecular biology techniques. Projects will involve recombinant gene and protein manipulations to investigate the dynamics of proteins within living cells. Prerequisite: MBB 308 and MBB 331, all with a minimum grade of C, or permission of instructor. Recommended: MBB 309W.

MBB 433 - Epithelial Cell Biology (3)

Emerging concepts in epithelial cell biology, including the establishment and maintenance of epithelial cell polarity and cell adhesion leading to the sculpting of developing organisms, roles in wound healing, birth defects and microbial defense, and insights into the maintenance of epithelia by stem cells will be explored. Prerequisite: MBB 331 or BISC 333, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 436 - Gene Expression (3)

Lectures and student presentations will cover the wide range of ways in which organisms (primarily eukaryotes) regulate gene expression along the pathway from DNA to protein. Prerequisite: MBB 331, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 438 - Human Molecular Genetics (3)

Recent advances in human molecular genetics including genome analysis, gene therapy, genetic testing, and studies of genetic disorders. Prerequisite: MBB 331, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 440 - Selected Topics in Contemporary Molecular Biology (3)

The topics in this course will vary from term to term, depending on faculty availability and student interest. Prerequisite: will depend upon the nature of the topic offered.

MBB 441 - Bioinformatics (3)

Examining the use of, and theory behind, bioinformatic software and algorithms for the analysis of macromolecular data. Includes consideration of recent literature and discussion of ethics in method development and analysis. Prerequisite: MBB 243 or 3 units of CMPT or equivalent with a minimum grade of C, or permission of the instructor; MBB 331 and MBB 342, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 443 - Protein Biogenesis and Degradation (3)

A consideration of protein biogenesis (folding, assembly, and targeting to cellular compartments), modification, and degradation, and their roles in protein and cellular function. Prerequisite: MBB 321 and MBB 322, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 445 - Advanced Microbial Pathogenesis (3)

Recent advances in microbial pathogenesis with an emphasis on primary literature. Prerequisite: MBB 328 and either MBB 326 or HSCI 326, all with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 446 - The Molecular Biology of Cancer (3)

An examination of the molecular mechanisms that contribute to tumor formation, the hallmarks of cancer and their relationship to therapeutic strategies. Prerequisite: MBB 322 and 331, with a minimum grade of C, or permission of the instructor.

MBB 447 - Stem Cells - Current Trends (3)

Foundational biology of stem cell populations, technological advances, current and potential therapeutic applications. Prerequisite: MBB 322 or BISC 333, with a minimum grade of C. Students with credit for BISC 447 may not take this course for further credit. Students with credit for MBB 440 or BISC 472 under the title "Stem Cell Biology and Applications" may not take this course for further credit.

MBB 451 - Practicum IV (3)

Fourth term of work experience in the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Co-operative Education Program. Units from this course do not count towards the units required for an SFU degree. Prerequisite: Acceptance in the Science Co-operative Education Program.

MBB 452 - Practicum V (3)

Fifth term of work experience in the Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Co-operative Education Program. Units from this course do not count towards the units required for an SFU degree. This course may be repeated for additive credit. Prerequisite: Acceptance in the Science Co-operative Education Program.

MBB 460 - Selected Topics in Bioinformatics and Genomics (3)

The topics in this course will vary from term to term, depending on faculty availability and student interest. Students may repeat this course for further credit under a different topic. Prerequisite: Will vary depending on the topic.

MBB 461 - Comparative Genomics (3)

Examination of the fundamentals of comparative genomics, identification and activity of functional elements in genomes, inter- and intra-species comparisons, relationship of genomic to phenotypic variation, and personalized genomics are among the topics to be explored. Comparison of genome data has impacts on medicine and many other fields of the life sciences. Prerequisite: MBB 331 and MBB 342, with a minimum grade of C. Students who have completed MBB 440 Comparative Genomics may not complete this course for further credit.

MBB 462 - Human Genomics (3)

The organization of the human genome and the role of genomic variation in health and disease. Genomics and personalized medicine; intellectual property and privacy issues. Prerequisite: MBB 331 and MBB 342, with a minimum grade of C. Students with credit for MBB 440 with this same course title may not complete this course for further credit.

MBB 463 - Forensic Genomics (3)

A focus on the molecular and genomic biology associated with forensic science, including genome structure, genotyping, genetic analysis of DNA fingerprints, DNA data bases and CODIS, Y STRs. mtDNA and ethical considerations of DNA typing. Prerequisite: MBB 331, with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 464 - From Genome to System (3)

Methods that enable the integration of Biochemical, Genetic and Genomic knowledge (BiGG) to reconstruct a genomic scale network that defines the metabolic physiology of an organism will be explored. Applications of these approaches in the fields of microbial evolution, interaction networks, genetic engineering and drug discovery will be discussed. Prerequisite: MBB 331 and MBB 342.

MBB 465 - Cancer Genomics (3)

Our understanding of the role of genetic and epigenetic changes in the formation of human cancers continues to be advanced by genomic technologies. Current techniques for studying cancer genomes and how heritable changes can lead to treatment resistance will be discussed. Prerequisite: MBB 331 and MBB 342 with a minimum grade of C or permission of the instructor. Students with credit for MBB 460 under the title "Cancer Genomics" may not take this course for further credit.

MBB 471 - Undergraduate Colloquium (1)

Recent research articles on the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular activities, genomics and bioinformatics or the structure, function and interactions of macromolecules will be presented and discussed by students and faculty. This course will be available for MBB undergraduates to take once for undergraduate credit and will be offered in conjunction with MBB 821 (Cell and Molecular Biology), 841 (Genomics and Bioinformatics) or 861 Biomolecular Structure and Function. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.

MBB 478 - Seminar in Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases (3)

Application of modern molecular methods to epidemiological questions. Globally-relevant and emerging infectious diseases will be highlighted. Prerequisite: HSCI 326 or MBB 326 or MBB 331, with a minimum grade of C, or HSCI 338 with a minimum grade of C-. Students with credit for HSCI 478 may not take this course for further credit.

MBB 481 - Directed Research - Honours Thesis (5)

MBB 481 is one of three Directed Research courses taken concurrently to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option A). This course provides students with the opportunity to carry out full time laboratory research in molecular biology and biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. The grade for MBB 481 encompasses the research design aspect of the project, consisting of the research proposal and honours thesis. Prerequisite: MBB 308, MBB 309W and MBB 331, enrollment in the MBB or Biological Physics Honours Program, a minimum 3.0 CGPA and 3.0 UDGPA and permission of the MBB department. Corequisite: MBB 482 and MBB 483.

MBB 482 - Directed Research - Honours Research Performance (5)

MBB 482 is one of three Directed Research courses taken concurrently to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option A). This course provides students with the opportunity to carry out full time laboratory research in molecular biology and biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. The grade for MBB 482 encompasses the research performance aspect of the project. Prerequisite: MBB 308, MBB 309W and MBB 331, enrollment in the MBB or Biological Physics Honours Program, a minimum 3.0 CGPA and 3.0 UDGPA and permission of the MBB department. Corequisite: MBB 481 and MBB 483.

MBB 483 - Directed Research - Honours Thesis Defense (5)

MBB 483 is one of three Directed Research courses taken concurrently to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option A). This course provides students with the opportunity to carry out full time laboratory research in molecular biology and biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. The grade for MBB 483 encompasses the defense component of the research project. Prerequisite: MBB 308, MBB 309W and MBB 331, enrollment in the MBB or Biological Physics Honours Program, a minimum 3.0 CGPA and 3.0 UDGPA and permission of the MBB department. Corequisite: MBB 481 and MBB 482.

MBB 490 - Directed Readings in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (2)

Directed reading in a topic of molecular biology or biochemistry chosen in consultation with a supervisor. Before seeking approval for enrollment in this course, the student should have already obtained the agreement of a faculty member that he/she is willing to supervise the project, and have prepared a written proposal (of approximately one page) stating the nature of the directed reading topic. The course will include the preparation of a written term paper on the topic chosen. Prerequisite: MBB 231, with a minimum grade of C, and permission of the molecular biology and biochemistry department. Usually, upper level standing with at least 60 units in a Biochemistry major, minor or honours program will be required.

MBB 491 - Directed Research I (5)

MBB 491 is offered as a stand-alone Directed Research course open to MBB Majors, or as the first of two courses taken consecutively to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option B). This course provides students with the opportunity to carry out part time laboratory research in an area of molecular biology or biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. MBB 491 coursework includes preparation of a research proposal and a report and oral presentation on the results of the project. Prerequisite: MBB 308 or MBB 309W and permission of the MBB department. Upper level standing in an MBB major, minor or honours program is required.

MBB 492 - Directed Research II (10)

MBB 492 is the second of two courses taken consecutively to fulfill the requirements of the MBB Honours program (Option B). Two-thirds of full-time laboratory research in an area of molecular biology or biochemistry. The research project is typically a continuation of the MBB 491 project, supervised by the same faculty member. The course includes the preparation of a research proposal, a report and an oral presentation on the results of the project. Prerequisite: MBB 491, MBB 308, MBB 309W and MBB 331, enrollment in the MBB honours program, a minimum 3.0 CGPA and 3.0 UDGPA and permission of the department.

MBB 496 - Directed Research for MBB-BUS and MBB-CS Joint Honours (6)

Part-time laboratory research in an area of molecular biology or biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. This course is intended only for students taking a joint MBB-BUS or MBB-CS honours degree. MBB 496 coursework includes the preparation of a research proposal, a report and an oral presentation on the results of the research. Prerequisite: 75 units and upper division standing in MBB-BUS or MBB-CS Joint Honours program, and MBB 308 or 309W with a minimum grade of C.

MBB 498 - Directed Research (3)

Part time laboratory research in an area of molecular biology or biochemistry under the supervision of an MBB faculty member or associate. MBB 498 coursework includes preparation of a research proposal, a report and an oral presentation on the results of the project. Prerequisite: MBB 308 or 309W; Students may not take MBB 498 concurrently with MBB 481, 482, 483, 491 or 492 or BISC 490, 491, 492W, 498 or 499.

MBB 505 - Problem Based Learning in Bioinformatics (3)

The problem-based learning course will develop students' ability to exchange ideas in small groups focused on real but simplified problems in bioinformatics. Problems will be carefully selected to cover multiple areas of bioinformatics research. This is an advanced bioinformatics course that assumes the student has previous bioinformatics training. Prerequisite: MBB 741 or equivalent bioinformatics course (undergraduate or graduate). This course is identical to CMPT 505 and students cannot take both courses for credit.

MBB 659 - Special Topics in Bioinformatics (3)

Consideration of recent research literature on contemporary topics in bioinformatics. Prerequisite: MBB 441 or 741; or CMPT 341 or 881.

MBB 679 - Special Topics in Proteomics (3)

Consideration of recent research literature on contemporary topics in proteomics. Prerequisite: MBB 442 or 742.

MBB 700 - Selected Topics in Biotechnology and Business (1)

MBB 702 - Developmental Biology of Cell Signalling (3)

Aspects of developmental and cellular biology in the context of signal transduction pathways. The diverse mechanisms used in cell signalling and how the various approaches to the study of signal transduction in organismal development complement each other will be examined with an emphasis on current literature.

MBB 721 - Nucleic Acids (3)

An examination of recent literature about the structure and function of DNA and RNA.

MBB 722 - Biological Membranes (3)

A review of recent literature on the structure, dynamics, function and biosynthesis of membrane lipids and proteins.

MBB 723 - Protein Structure and Function (3)

MBB 727 - Immune Responses in Health and Disease (3)

Defects in the immunologic response to bacterial, viral and parasitic infections. The mechanisms of action of vaccines. The causes of immune-mediated diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, hypersensitivity reactions (including asthma and allergy) and organ transplant rejection. The reaction of the immune system to cancer and immunotherapy for cancer. Prerequisite: One of MBB 326, HSCI 326, MBB 426 or HSCI 426, or permission of the instructor. Students with credit for MBB 427, HSCI 427, or HSCI 727 may not complete MBB 727 for credit.

MBB 729 - RNA-mediated Gene Regulation (3)

RNA plays an important role in gene regulation. This course will explore recent primary literature studying the biochemistry of these processes. Students who have taken MBB 420 or MBB 829 under the same title cannot take this course for further credit.

MBB 730 - Mechanisms of Secretory Transport (3)

Analysis of mechanisms of protein, lipid, and nucleic acid delivery and transport within cells. The course will examine processes of protein targeting, exocytosis, and endocytosis; molecular mechanisms of COP-and clathrin-mediated vesicle transport; and viral and SNARE-mediated membrane fusion. Lectures will present landmark experiments from classic papers, and student presentations will focus on recent research articles. The significance of these findings with respect to human disease and signal transduction will be considered. Prerequisite: MBB 322 and BISC 331/MBB 331 or permission of the instructor.

MBB 736 - Gene Expression (3)

A consideration of the mechanisms and regulation of gene expression in eukaryotes and prokaryotes.

MBB 738 - Human Molecular Genetics (3)

The course will consider recent advances in human molecular genetics. Topics will include genome analysis, genetic testing, and studies of genetic disorders. Prerequisite: MBB 331 (or BISC 331) or equivalent.

MBB 741 - Bioinformatics (3)

Lectures and hands-on instruction at the computer in the use of, and theory behind, bioinformatic software and algorithms for the analysis of macromolecular data. Prerequisite: MBB 331 and MBB 342 or permission of the instructor.

MBB 743 - Protein Biogenesis, Function and Degradation (3)

The central dogma of molecular biology (DNA to RNA to protein) underscores two fundamental biological processes, transcription and translation, that are essential to life. Protein biogenesis (folding, assembly, targeting to the proper cellular compartment), protein modification and protein degradation represent three other equally important cellular activities. The emphasis in this course will be to review the literature on protein biogenesis, function, and degradation, and explore the new and exciting developments that are just starting to uncover how mechanistically complex these processes are.

MBB 745 - Advanced Microbial Pathogenesis (3)

Recent advances in microbial pathogenesis with an emphasis on primary literature. Students who have taken this topic under MBB 829 or MBB 839 may not take this course for further credit.

MBB 746 - The Molecular Biology of Cancer (3)

An examination of the molecular mechanisms that contribute to tumor formation, the hallmarks of cancer and their relationship to therapeutic strategies.

MBB 760 - Special Topics in Bioinformatics and Genomics (3)

MBB 761 - Comparative Genomics (3)

MBB 762 - Human Genomics (3)

The organization of the human genome and the role of genomic variation in health and disease. Genomics and personalized medicine; intellectual property and privacy issues.

MBB 764 - From Genome to System (3)

MBB 778 - Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Disease (3)

Application of modern molecular methods to epidemiological studies. Globally-relevant and emerging infectious diseases will be highlighted. Students with credit for MBB 478, HSCI 478, or HSCI 778 may not take this course for further credit.

MBB 801 - Student Seminar in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (3)

An introductory course for graduate students in the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (MBB). Lecture presentations include general information for students starting graduate studies; effective research writing and presentation skills; fundamentals for proper data and statistical analysis; research ethics and policies for professional equality, diversity, and inclusiveness; professional skills for scientific careers.

MBB 803 - MBB Department Seminar Series (1)

In accompaniment with the weekly MBB departmental seminar series, students will read relevant literature from the speaker’s laboratory to participate in the scientific discussion that follows each seminar. Approaches for providing effective seminar presentations will also be discussed. Students must take MBB 803 twice, in two consecutive offerings, at the first opportunity in the MBB graduate program (fall and spring or spring and fall).

MBB 806 - PhD Graduate Research Candidacy Examination (3)

Oral presentation and defense of a written PhD research proposal. Students will be examined on their knowledge relevant to the proposed research, capacity to complete the proposed thesis research (including any relevant preliminary results), and understanding of the broader field of study. All students enrolled in the MBB PhD graduate program must take MBB 806. Students in the MSc program wishing to transfer to the PhD program must successfully complete MBB 806. Prerequisite: Permission of the student's supervisory committee.

MBB 821 - Cell and Molecular Biology Colloquium (1)

Recent research articles on the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular activities will be presented and discussed by students and faculty, with an emphasis on critically analyzing concepts, experimental design, and methodology. A student may not take more than 3 units of colloquia for credit. Prerequisite: BISC 331/MBB 331 or equivalent.

MBB 829 - Special Topics in Biochemistry (3)

Consideration of recent literature concerning selected contemporary research topics. Can be taken more than once with permission of the instructor.

MBB 839 - Special Topics in Molecular Biology (3)

Consideration of recent literature concerning selected contemporary research topics. Can be taken more than once with permission of instructor.

MBB 841 - Genomics and Bioinformatics Colloquium (1)

Recent research articles on modern genomic techniques will be presented and discussed by students and faculty, with an emphasis on critical analysis of the concepts, experimental design, technologies and the practical application of bioinformatics algorithms. A student may not take more than 3 units of colloquia. Prerequisite: It is recommended that students have previously taken one introductory computer-programming course (e.g. CMPT 102, 110, 120, 130 or equivalent) and one introductory statistics course (e.g. STAT 201, 270 or equivalent); or permission of the instructor.

MBB 861 - Biomolecular Structure and Function Colloquium (1)

Recent research articles on the structure, function, and interactions of macromolecules including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids, as well as their complexes, will be presented and discussed by students and faculty, with an emphasis on critical analysis of the concepts and experimental design and methods. Prerequisite: BISC 331/MBB 331 or equivalent.

MBB 871 - Directed Readings in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (1)

Programs of directed readings and critical discussions offered to individual students according to their needs. Except under exceptional circumstances, the readings should not be offered by the senior supervisor or directly related to the student's thesis research topic. Study programs must be approved by the MBB graduate studies committee.

MBB 872 - Directed Readings in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (2)

Programs of directed readings and critical discussions offered to individual students according to their needs.Except under exceptional circumstances, the readings should not be offered by the senior supervisor or directly related to the student's thesis research topic. Study programs must be approved by the MBB graduate studies committee.