Cell Communication and Disease

Effective coordination between cells through cell communication and signaling enables multicellular organisms to develop and survive. Conversely, aberrations in these pathways are at the heart of a wide variety of human diseases. In this seminar course, we will discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms of cell communication using a series of human diseases as a framework. The course will introduce postbac and advanced undergraduate students to the fundamental principles of cell signaling and will explore current questions of interest to the field. The synergistic nature of research directed at understanding basic cell biology, development and physiology with research aimed at elucidation and control of specific human ailments will be emphasized. The course will be comprised of a combination of introductory lectures and extensive discussion of primary literature. Students are expected to have a basic knowledge of cell biology, biochemistry and cell structure. BIOL 211 and 203 are recommended pre-requisites.