Cell Biology (Biol 2221)
Dr. Allan Blake

This course covers three interrelated disciplines, the cytology, the genetics and the biochemistry of the cell. Cells are first examined at the molecular and subcellular levels to explore the theme of macromolecular structure and function, and then the molecular processes of cells are analyzed. The textbook, "Molecular Cell Biology", by H. Lodish et al., © 2000, W.H. Freeman & Co., New York (ISBN: 0-7167-3136-3) is a premier source of molecular and cell biology information, and will be closely followed throughout this course.  The textbook is currently available in the SHU bookstore.

Lectures will provide an overall introduction to each topic, and will emphasize the critical aspects of cell biology.  Lecture attendance is mandatory.  The lectures are not a simple compendium of facts, nor are the lectures a substitute for the textbook, which contains essential material that cannot be covered in the lectures.  The lecture Powerpoint presentations are made available before each class, to allow your full attention to be devoted to the lecture material, rather than the detailed copying of notes and diagrams.  In addition, information about current technology and recent experimental findings from the scientific literature will be presented throughout this course.

Cell Biology is a fundamental course for students that plan on pursuing advanced degrees, including graduate school, medical school or professional school.  The Cell Biology exams will be designed to be similar to the MCAT exam and the Advanced Biology GRE exam.  Cell Biology remains one of the most challenging undergraduate courses offered by the SHU Biology department.