Courses in the School of Graduate Studies

School of Graduate Studies

Courses

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

• BIOCH 207 - Introduction to Special Methods of Research

  [1-9 Credits]

  ---

  Theoretical discussions and laboratory work during the first year of laboratory rotations, as well as research related work for graduate students prior to passing the Qualifying Examination. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
• BIOCH 208 - Cell Culture Techniques

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  A course in contemporary cell culture techniques. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
• BIOCH 221 - Protein Chemistry

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  Didactic and discussion sessions covering advanced aspects of protein structure-function; thermodynamics of protein folding; protein evolution; bioinformatics analysis of protein superfamilies; techniques of protein expression; purification and characterization of natural and recombinant proteins. Prerequisite: INTER 111.
• BIOCH 223 - Physical Biochemistry

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  Didactic and discussion sessions covering the thermodynamic and biophysical properties of biochemically relevant macromolecules and their intramolecular interactions. Prerequisite: INTER 111  and one semester of calculus. Two semesters of physical chemistry is highly recommended, otherwise, permission of the course director is required.
• BIOCH 260 - Cancer Molecular Genetics and Applications

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This upper level course examines the types of genetic alterations that contribute to cancer development and discusses some of the underlying biochemical principals that result from these genetic alterations. By the end of the course, students should understand that various genotoxic stresses and subsequent genetic alterations can induce cancer development as well as promote in tumor progression. Further, students should be familiar with different approaches to identify candidate genes for cancer development and tumor progression. The class will involve two, two-hour lectures per week. It is offered jointly with the Dept of Genetics as GENET 245 . Prerequisite: INTER 111  and INTER 121 , INTER 122 , INTER 123  and INTER 124 .
• BIOCH 280 - Advanced Topics in Biochemistry

  [1-4 Credits]

  ---

  timeliness and student and faculty interest. Biochemistry of the cell cycle, comparative biochemistry, enzymology, intermediary metabolism, vitamins and nutrition, mass spectrometry, and bioenergetics are representative topics. A given topic will recur on a cycle of two to three years. The student’s transcript will indicate, in addition to the course title, the particular topic covered during the given semester. This procedure will serve to clarify the repeat appearance of Biochemistry 280 on the student’s transcript.
• BIOCH 298 - Seminar

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U) Reports on research progress and on current literature. Six credits of seminar (either BIOCH 298 or BIOCH 299 ) are required for departmental program of study, but note that the School of Graduate Studies permits only four credits of seminar to be applied toward graduation.
• BIOCH 299 - Professional Skills for Graduate Students

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U) Didactic and discussion sessions covering different ‘soft’ skills required for success in academic and industry career tracks. Topics can range from manuscript writing and submission procedures, grant writing, interview skills, methods of negotiation, pedagogical metrics, and resume development. The Department requires that all students enroll for the course, unless they are enrolled in BIOCH 999  (Exam Only). Six credits of seminar (either BIOCH 298  or BIOCH 299) are required for departmental program of study, but note that the School of Graduate Studies permits only four credits of seminar to be applied toward graduation.
• BIOCH 300 - Thesis Research

  [1-6 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Research for PhD degree students after successful completion of the Qualifying Exam and prior to passing the Preliminary Exam. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
• BIOCH 400 - Dissertation Research

  [1-9 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Full-time research efforts toward the thesis for PhD degree students after successful completion of the Preliminary Exam. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
• BIOCH 999 - Exam Only

  [0 Credits]

  ---

  (P/F) Students may register for “Exam Only” when they have completed their Preliminary Exam and expect to complete PhD requirements and graduate within 3 semesters. Students are allowed to register for “Exam Only” for a maximum of 3 semesters.

Biostatistics

• BIOS 6221 - Biostatistical Methods I

  [4 Credits]

  ---

  Three hours of lecture and two hours of lab per week. General introduction to descriptive and inferential statistics: techniques and principles for summarizing data, estimation, hypothesis testing, and decision-making. Students are instructed on the proper use of statistical software to manage, manipulate, and analyze data and to prepare summary reports and graphical displays. Examples and problems from the health sciences are used throughout. Laboratory sessions will be held in the SoPH computing lab and are designed to closely follow lecture material. (Non-biostatistics majors only.)

Cell Biology and Anatomy

• ANAT 189 - Human Gross Anatomy of Upper Extremity, Thorax and Back

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course is centered around dissection of the upper extremity, thorax and back of the human body. Dissection is supplemented with films, cross-sections, models and clinical correlations of these specific areas. An accompanying lecture series is designed to orient, guide and stimulate the student toward independent effort.
• ANAT 190 - Human Gross Anatomy of the Head and Neck

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course is centered around dissection of the head and neck of the human body. Dissection is supplemented with films, cross-sections, models, and clinical correlations of these specific areas. An accompanying lecture series is designed to orient, guide, and stimulate the student toward independent effort.
• ANAT 191 - Human Gross Anatomy of Abdomen, Pelvis, Perineum and Lower Extremity

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course is centered around dissection of the abdomen, pelvis, perineum and lower extremity of the human body. Dissection is supplemented with films, cross-sections, models, and clinical correlations of these specific areas. An accompanying lecture series is designed to orient, guide, and stimulate the student toward independent effort.
• ANAT 192 - Cell Biology and Microscopic Anatomy

  [5 Credits]

  ---

  The initial portion of the course stresses organization of the cell, the biology of cellular organelles and the localization of important chemical constituents at the subcellular level. Additional presentation and discussion sessions throughout the course present the student with comprehensive information of the physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology of cellular function. Histology lectures and laboratories emphasize the structural and functional relationships of human tissues.
• ANAT 193 - Human Development

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  This lecture/ laboratory course is taken concurrently with ANAT 210  that provides the lecture portion. Current topics are fertilization, sectioned human embryos, human fetal dissections and fetal membranes, experimental embryology, reproductive toxicology and the culture of fetal/neonatal tissues. Literature reports and discussions may substitute for laboratory exercises.
• ANAT 194 - Radiographic Anatomy

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  The fundamentals of radiology are presented in a series of lectures and demonstrations. Emphasis will be placed on the interpretation of normal radiographs from each body region. Presentations will be coordinated with the gross anatomy dissection schedule.
• ANAT 195 - Medical Neuroscience

  [6 Credits]

  ---

  An introduction to the structure and function of the nervous system, as well as its dysfunction. This course emphasizes brain anatomy, including study of brain specimens in a laboratory setting; the physiology and synaptic transmission of nerve cells; the function and mechanisms underlying sensory and motor behavior; and higher cognitive functions. Clinical correlations, including lectures on major nervous system diseases, are provided by neurology and neurosurgery faculty. This course is also taken by first-year medical students.
• ANAT 210 - Developmental Anatomy

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  The normal and abnormal aspects of human prenatal development are presented in a lecture series, which is coordinated, when possible, with the dissection schedule in gross anatomy. Definitive adult structures and their relations are appreciated through an understanding of their formation and relations during the embryonic period. Included are important features of fetal development, which are essential for normal birth and adaptation to the extrauterine environment.
• ANAT 220 - Advanced Special Dissection

  [1-4 Credits]

  ---

  Hours to be arranged. Students perform detailed dissections of specific selected regions of the body.
• ANAT 227 - Cell and Developmental Biology

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  Lectures and group discussions will focus on selected topics involving cell and developmental biology. Topics may include gametes and their interactions, embryogenesis, cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, differentiation, etc. A wide range of developmental systems will be considered.
• ANAT 252 - Developmental Neuroscience

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course will focus on recent advances in developmental neuroscience. Two hour formal lectures and a one hour seminar component per week will cover neural induction, neurogenesis, cell-ECM interactions, neural crest cell migration, neurotrophins, signal transduction, apoptosis axon guidance, axon-target interactions, synaptogenesis and activity-dependent refinement of neural connections. Students will be required to critically evaluate and present current literature on these subjects and write short essays.
• ANAT 255 - Advanced Head and Neck Anatomy

  [4 Credits]

  ---

  One and one-half hours of lecture and two and one-half hours of laboratory. This course is designed as an advanced course in head and neck anatomy for post-graduate students in medicine, dentistry and the School of Graduate Studies. The course will include segments on the basic gross anatomy, neuro-anatomy and neuro-physiology of the head and neck. Special emphasis on functional considerations and clinical correlations will be given in the course.
• ANAT 256 - Microanatomy and Cell Biology of the Oral Cavity

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  This course includes a study of the development, microanatomy, and cell biology of structures associated with the oral cavity. The lectures will include basic and current information on the development and structure of all components of teeth (enamel, dentin, cementum, and pulp), the supporting structures of teeth (periodontal ligament and alveolar bone), oral mucosa, and salivary glands. Current theories on tooth eruption will also be discussed. The laboratory will consist of demonstrations and self-study. Prerequisite: ANAT 192 
• ANAT 264 - Synaptic Organization of the Brain

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course will provide an in-depth examination of the physiologic and anatomic organization of the major structures of the brain and spinal cord. The course will consist of two 2-hour sessions per week, each week being devoted to a different CNS structure and taught by an instructor with expertise in the field. The organization of each CNS structure, including the cellular physiology, major synaptic inputs, intrinsic synaptic organization, and primary outputs of the structure will be emphasized in the lectures. As part of their grade, students are required to give oral presentations summarizing recent primary research articles.
• ANAT 270 - Laboratory Rotation

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  Students will work in one or more faculty laboratories to become acquainted with the various types of research conducted in the Department and with techniques used in these labs.
• ANAT 280 - Special Topics in Cell Biology and Anatomy

  [2-4 Credits]

  ---

  Lectures discussions, research, and/or laboratories will be arranged on areas not adequately covered in other scheduled courses. This course is designed to permit graduate students to explore one or more areas of particular interest in detail. Emphasis will be placed on those areas of special interest to faculty members of the Anatomy Department.
• ANAT 290 - Seminar

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U) Students are required to attend and participate in oral presentations of research data and review of current topics of interest in Anatomy. A maximum of 4 credits toward the PhD degree may be earned. Students in the Anatomy Program are required to participate in Seminar each semester regardless of credit.
• ANAT 300 - Thesis Research

  [1-6 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Laboratory research conducted by PhD degree students prior to passing the Preliminary Exam.
• ANAT 400 - Dissertation Research

  [1-9 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Laboratory research conducted by PhD degree students who have passed the Preliminary Exam and been admitted to candidacy. This research is typically part of the students’ PhD dissertation.
• ANAT 999 - Exam Only

  [0 Credits]

  ---

  (P/F) Students may register for “Exam Only” when they have completed their Preliminary Exam and expect to complete PhD requirements and graduate within 3 semesters. Students are allowed to register for “Exam Only” for a maximum of 3 semesters.

Genetics

• GENET 228 - Introduction to Bioinformatics

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  This course is intended to serve as an introduction to the use of computer-based tools to obtain, analyze and publish biological data. One area of focus will be learning to use widely applicable database search strategies. Sessions will include introductions to DNA and protein sequence comparison, use of select bioinformatics portals and genome browsers as well as general strategies for finding, learning and using web-based bioinformatics tools.
• GENET 231 - Human Molecular Genetics

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  The goal of this course is to introduce key concepts of human molecular genetics and their application to research in disease and to prepare students to understand the ongoing developments in genetics and how they apply to their chosen area of research. The course will cover chromosome structure and function, multifactorial inheritance, epigenetics, cancer genetics, pharmacogenomics as well as gene structure and characterization.
• GENET 234 - Epigenetics

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  Three hours per week. This course will examine epigenetic phenomena such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, genomic imprinting, and epigenetic reprogramming in embryonic stem cells and cloning. Emphasis will be placed on how loss of proper epigenetic control leads to human disease. By the end of the course, students should understand the differences between genetic and epigenetic influences on gene expression, the range of epigenetic mechanisms used by different eukaryotic organisms to regulate gene expression, how epigenetic modifications are propagated, and the phenotypic consequences of epigenetic regulation.
• GENET 236 - Genetic Epidemiology and Population Genetics

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  An introduction to the fundamental elements of mathematical and population genetics. Topics include probability, Bayes’ theorem, Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, inbreeding, selection, mutation, models for polygenic and multifactorial inheritance, linkage and simple segregation analysis. Prerequisite: GENET 231 .
• GENET 242 - Animal Models of Human Diseases

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  This genetics course examines the different types of animal models that mimic human genetic disorders and discusses some of the underlying biochemical principles that result from these genetic alterations. By the end of the course, students should understand how various types of animal models such as Non-Human Primates, Drosophila, and mouse are used to understand human genetic disorders including congenital diseases and cancer. The class will involve one, two-hour lecture per week.
• GENET 245 - Cancer Molecular Genetics and Applications

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This upper level course examines the types of genetic alterations that contribute to cancer development and discusses some of the underlying biochemical principals that result from these genetic alterations. By the end of the course, students should understand that various genotoxic stresses and subsequent genetic alterations can induce cancer development as well as promote in tumor progression. Further, students should be familiar with different approaches to identify candidate genes for cancer development and tumor progression. The class will involve two, two-hour lectures per week. It is offered jointly with the Dept of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology as BIOCH 260 .
• GENET 246 - Molecular Medicine in Disease

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  Three hours of lecture per week. This course covers basic knowledge in virology and vector development for rational design and development of state-of-the-art gene and macromolecule delivery systems. Advanced technologies in evaluating and assessing gene and macromolecule transfer efficacy at the cellular and molecular level will be introduced. A general overview on the most recent advances in improving these delivery vehicles and clinical applications in the treatment of various inherited and acquired diseases will be provided. Towards the end of this course, issues related to ethical and legal concerns and regulatory approval processes through the federal government leading to human trials will be provided. Upon completion of this course, students should have a general concept of advantages and limitations of each of the gene/macromolecule transfer systems and understanding of the process from “bench” discovery to “bedside” utilization in clinics.
• GENET 247 - Proposal Writing

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) This course provides students with the concepts and structure to prepare a successful proposal. Students will learn to develop a rigorous, well-defined experimental plan. The course will concentrate on NIH style proposals and format.
• GENET 250 - Introduction to Research Methods

  [3-6 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) This course will provide introduction to basic research methods during the first year for directly admitted Genetics graduate students. The course will consist of three 12-week rotations in three different laboratories in the Department to receive introduction to research projects and techniques used in any specific laboratory. These rotations are required to be completed in the first two semesters (fall and spring) of the first year the student is enrolled in the program. The primary objective of these rotations is to help the graduate students in selecting a laboratory/Major Professor in performing the Dissertation Research. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory grades will be given for this course based on their performance on the project and a report presentation to each of the laboratory mentor at the end of each rotation.
• GENET 253 - Laboratory Methods

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Student works in faculty laboratory to become acquainted with research projects and techniques.
• GENET 256 - Practical Bioinformatics

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course will focus on the practical use of current bioinformatic tools to further biological research. It is not a computer science course and no programming skills are required. Some theory will be included to help explain how certain tools work, but the main focus will be on learning to use the tools appropriately in order to obtain, analyze and publish biological data.
• GENET 271 - Medical Genetics Clinic

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  Three hours of clinic per week. Patient contact in a clinical setting provides experience in interviewing and counseling techniques, risk assessment, medical and genetic aspects of inherited disease, an understanding of the limitations, interpretations and significance of specialized laboratory and genetic procedures, and a knowledge of available health care resources for appropriate referral. Up to four semesters may be taken for credit. Prerequisite: GENET 231 .
• GENET 290 - Genetics Journal Club

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  Both inherent and somatic alterations in the genome cause various kinds of disease including congenital disorders and cancer. Small differences in genome, such as polymorphism or epigenetic changes, also affect disease. This course will examine the types of genetic alterations that contribute to genetic disease, how to identify the genetic components and alterations, genotype-phenotype correlations, and functional analyses of responsible genes using recently published articles. By the end of the course, students should understand that various genetic alterations are responsible for the development of genetic disease.
• GENET 291 - Special Topics in Human Genetics

  [1-4 Credits]

  ---

  This course is designed, depending upon the students’ interest and staff availability, to cover advanced aspects of topics already covered at an elementary level, or new topics such as cytogenetics, comparative genomics, immunogenetics, developmental genetics, genomic instability, and protein evolution.
• GENET 292 - Human Cytogenetics

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  Three hours of lecture per week. This lecture and laboratory course will focus on human chromosome structure, methodology, and techniques for the visualization of chromosome aberrations. Chromosome abnormalities will be discussed from the clinical and cytogenetic viewpoint. It will also cover current topics in Cytogenetics, including new methodologies and their use in clinical genetics and research.
• GENET 299 - Seminar in Human Genetics

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U) Reports on research progress and on current literature. A total of four credits must be earned during the period of graduate work.
• GENET 300 - Thesis Research

  [1-6 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Research related work for PhD degree students prior to passing Preliminary Exam.
• GENET 400 - Dissertation Research

  [1-9 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Registration by permission of the Head of the Department. Amount of credit to be stated at the time of registration.
• GENET 999 - Exam Only

  [0 Credits]

  ---

  (P/F) Students may register for “Exam Only” when they have completed their Preliminary Exam and expect to complete PhD requirements and graduate within 3 semesters. Students are allowed to register for “Exam Only” for a maximum of 3 semesters.

Interdisciplinary Courses

• INTER 101 - Introduction to Research and Resources

  ---

  This two-week orientation provides students with an intense introduction to the interdisciplinary program and is designed to familiarize them with the LSUHSC campus, services and department/programmatic opportunities available to them. It will also prepare students for their laboratory rotations and dissertation research by covering three general areas: laboratory safety; common lab techniques and research resources available on the campus. Students will spend two days in each department/program meeting faculty and learning about the research interests of those faculty.
• INTER 111 - Biochemistry

  [4 Credits]

  ---

  This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental chemical principles associated with living organisms and establishes a foundation for subsequent courses in multiple disciplines. The molecular logic underlying the organization and regulation of living systems is emphasized. Topics covered include fundamental considerations of thermodynamics, the basics of protein structure-function, enzyme specificity and catalysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and intermediary metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleotides. The course consists of lectures, student presentations, problems sets, and discussions of classic and recent literature in the field.
• INTER 121 - Cell Biology

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This is a comprehensive cell biology course that will cover cell types, protein structure and function, cell organization (membranes, organelles, cytoskeleton), tissue organization neural development, membrane transport of ions and small molecules, membrane/vesicular trafficking, and bioenergetics.
• INTER 122 - Molecular Biology

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  This is a comprehensive molecular biology course that will focus on basic molecular mechanisms and techniques, including the biochemistry of DNA and RNA structure, the organization of DNA within the cell, DNA replication, RNA transcription, RNA processing, and protein translation. Prokarotic and eukaryotic systems will be covered.
• INTER 123 - Control of Gene Expression

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  This course will focus on the regulation of gene expression at the transcriptional, post-transcriptional and translational levels of eukaryotes. Genetics and epigenetics controls will also be discussed. Prerequisite: INTER 121  and INTER 122 .
• INTER 124 - Cell Signaling and Control of Cell Cycle

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course will cover major signaling mechanisms relating to cell movement/morphogenesis, division and death. The fundamental characteristics of major classes of signaling molecules, including GTPases and protein kinases, will be discussed from structural, regulatory and pathphysiological viewpoints.
• INTER 131 - Biological Systems I

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  Development of organs, and function of tissues and organs that comprise the gastrointestinal and renal systems will be presented; mechanisms of control and integration of the various functions will be discussed. An introduction to the pathophysiology, genetic basis, and therapeutics of some diseases will be included.
• INTER 132 - Biological Systems II

  [5 Credits]

  ---

  Development of organs, and function of tissues and organs that comprise the neurological, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory systems will be presented; mechanisms of control and integration of the various functions will be discussed. An introduction to the pathophysiology, genetic basis and therapeutics of some diseases will be included as will an integrated approach to the effects of chronic stress on cell, organ and whole organism function.
• INTER 180 - Science Teaching

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U) Learn teaching techniques for elementary school science curriculum and instruction. The course will include assisting a teacher in applying basic science concepts and applications in the instruction of New Orleans public elementary school students. Up to four semesters may be taken for credit. This course may be repeated a maximum of four times for credit. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor.
• INTER 190 - Seminar

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  Biological Systems
• INTER 191 - Journal Club

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  Faculty presentations followed by student presentations on current literature and how to make scientific presentations.
• INTER 217 - History and Philosophy of Science

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  The history, methodologies, and philosophy of science are considered in a study discussion course.
• INTER 220 - Ethics in Biomedical Sciences

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U) This lecture and discussion course will introduce first year graduate students to the principles of ethics in biomedical research and the contemporary practice of medicine in the research setting. The course will cover basic principles of bioethics and diverse applications of these principles in research and medical practice.
• INTER 260 - Responsible Conduct of Research

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U) This course illustrates the issues and dilemmas encountered by scientists conducting research. Using both presentations and case studies designed to foster class discussion, students will be required to use critical thinking as they integrate personal and professional ethical standards and apply them to the cases. Cases of scientific misconduct will be presented just as they appear in the NIH Guide and the headlines of the news. Students will work in small groups throughout the course. These small groups will also work together to prepare IRB protocols which will be peer- reviewed by faculty and by the rest of the class. These protocols will include human subjects, exempt protocols and use of animals. Prerequisite: INTER 220 .
• INTER 420 - Comprehensive Pain Management

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course introduces healthcare professionals to basic and clinical issues of pain and analgesia. The course will review anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, measurement of pain in humans, and other issues. Application of these principles to specific pain conditions will also be considered.

Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology

• MICRO 221 - Medical Microbiology

  [5 Credits]

  ---

  A comprehensive course covering the principles of bacteriology, mycology, virology, parasitology, immunology, and the application of these principles to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of infectious diseases. In illustration of these principles, discussion of a series of clinical correlations is included in the lecture time.
• MICRO 222 - Medical Immunology

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  A comprehensive course covering the principles of immunology and the application of these principles to the diagnosis and control of immunologic and infectious diseases (the Immunology portion of MICRO 221 ).
• MICRO 225 - Advanced Medical Bacteriology

  [2-4 Credits]

  ---

  An advanced study of bacteria pathogenic to man, their cultural and antigenic characteristics, their pathogenic mechanisms, the immune responses of the human host to their invasion, the epidemiology of the diseases they produce, and their antibiotic and chemotherapeutic sensitivity.
• MICRO 228 - Laboratory Rotations in Microbiology

  [1-6 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) This course allows students to participate in ongoing research in two or three laboratories during a semester. Registration is by permission only.
• MICRO 229 - Analysis of Research Literature

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  Student will present research articles and critically evaluate the methods, approaches, and interpretations of the research. Students will be graded Pass or Fail.
• MICRO 231 - Molecular Biology of Eukaryotic Pathogens

  [4 Credits]

  ---

  This course focuses on recent approaches in studying eukaryotic pathogens. Course includes molecular genetics of model systems and how these apply to current research problems in infectious diseases. Representative eukaryotic pathogens will be studied. Course will emphasize essential elements of experimental design, analysis of results, and scientific logic.
• MICRO 276 - General and Molecular Virology

  [3-5 Credits]

  ---

  An introduction to the cellular and molecular biology of bacterial and animal viruses. Particular emphasis is given to virus cell interactions at the molecular level, including the immune response to viral infections, as well as to current research on mechanisms of viral replication and its effects on biochemical regulatory mechanisms in host cells.
• MICRO 281 - Selected Topics in Microbiology

  ---

  Topic and credit by arrangement.
• MICRO 295 - Basics of Immunology

  [2 Credits]

  ---

  A comprehensive course designed to introduce students to the basic principles of modern immunology and the methods used in immunological research.
• MICRO 296 - Fundamentals of Immunology

  [3-5 Credits]

  ---

  Permission required. This course begins with the study of the basic principals of modern immunology and the methods used in immunological research, followed by an advanced level study of selected current topics.
• MICRO 298 - Seminar in Microbiology

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U) Departmental student seminar series.
• MICRO 299 - Research Proposal in Microbiology

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) A required course for all doctoral candidates in which the student prepares, in National Institutes of Health grant format, a written proposal on the candidates dissertation research. The student presents and defends his proposal to his/her research committee as a basis for the Preliminary Examination.
• MICRO 300 - Thesis Research

  [1-6 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Research related work for PhD degree students prior to passing Preliminary Exam.
• MICRO 400 - Dissertation Research

  [1-9 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Research related work for PhD candidates.
• MICRO 999 - Exam Only

  [0 Credits]

  ---

  (P/F) Students may register for “Exam Only” when they have completed their Preliminary Exam and expect to complete PhD requirements and graduate within 3 semesters. Students are allowed to register for “Exam Only” for a maximum of 3 semesters.

Neuroscience

• NRSC 203 - Investigative Neuroscience

  [5 Credits]

  ---

  An introduction to cellular and synaptic neurophysiology. The course covers a wide range of topics addressing both normal and pathophysiologic processes at the cellular and systems level.
• NRSC 250 - Molecular Neurobiology

  [4 Credits]

  ---

  Covers the molecular, cellular, and biochemical pathways relevant to the nervous system.
• NRSC 270 - Laboratory Rotation

  [3-5 Credits]

  ---

  For the first two semesters (Fall and Spring) students enroll for four credits] and take two eight week rotations (each semester) to familiarize themselves with specific laboratory techniques, use of laboratory equipment, and data analysis and presentation. With the help of the laboratory supervisor, the student initially writes a paragraph on the project to be undertaken, and at the end of the rotation is expected to write a two-page paper on the project, comprising an Introduction, Materials and Methods, Results, and Conclusions sections. The student is expected to contact the investigator(s) well ahead of time to obtain permission and to make all necessary arrangements for the rotation. Scheduling of times is highly flexible and arranged by mutual agreement between the student and the investigator. A maximum of eight credits may be used toward a degree.
• NRSC 280 - Special Topics

  [1-4 Credits]

  ---

  Permission required. A laboratory course designed to familiarize the student with modern technology of molecular biology, including analytical and preparative centrifugation, electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, column chromatography, etc. Additional techniques commonly used in immunology, bacteriology, and virology laboratories are also included. Emphasis will be on applications to simple problems conducted at the laboratory bench.
• NRSC 290 - Current Neuroscience Research

  [2 Credit]

  ---

  Students present a 20-30 minute summary of their neuroscience research projects to a general audience. Students also write a one-page summary of presentations in that seminar on a biweekly basis. The goal is to hone presentation skills and broaden the students’ general neuroscience knowledge.
• NRSC 298 - Seminar

  [1 Credit]

  ---

  (S/U)This is the Neuroscience Center’s series of seminars, and its attendance is required of all students in the Program. A maximum of 4 credit hours, generally over the student’s first two years, may be earned toward the doctorate.
• NRSC 300 - Neuroscience Research

  [3-9 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Research related work for PhD degree students prior to passing Preliminary Exam.
• NRSC 400 - Dissertation Research

  [1-9 Credits]

  ---

  (S/U) Registration by permission of the Director of the Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Training Program.
• NRSC 999 - Exam Only

  [0 Credits]

  ---

  (P/F) Students may register for “Exam Only” when they have completed their Preliminary Exam and expect to complete PhD requirements and graduate within 3 semesters. Students are allowed to register for “Exam Only” for a maximum of 3 semesters.
• NSRC 264 - Synaptic Organization of the Brain

  [3 Credits]

  ---

  This course will provide an in-depth examination of the physiological and anatomic organization of the major structures of the brain and spinal cord. The course will consist of two 2-hour sessions per week, each week being devoted to a different CNS structure and taught by an instructor with expertise in the field. The organization of each CNS structure, including the cellular physiology, major synaptic inputs, intrinsic synaptic organization, and primary outputs of the structure will be emphasized in the lectures.

Pathology

• PATH 291 - General and Systemic Pathology I

  [4 Credits]

  ---

  This course introduces students to the study and language of human disease, its causes, and mechanisms and effects on the body by in-depth discussion of the general principles and reactions to different types of injury shared by most tissues.
• PATH 292 - General and Systemic Pathology II

  [4 Credits]

  ---

  This course introduces the student to the characteristic effects of common types of injury and of diseases on specific organ systems. The major disease processes are studied in terms of etiology, pathogenesis, and lesions. Prerequisite: PATH 291 .

Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics

• PHARM 195 - General Pharmacology

  [5 Credits]

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  Course consists of lectures, laboratory exercises, conferences, and demonstrations leading to a broad general understanding of the effects of drugs.
• PHARM 202 - History of Pharmacology

  [2 Credits]

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  Two hours of faculty/student presentations and discussions on the history of pharmacology and experimental therapeutics, with an emphasis on classical experiments.
• PHARM 203 - Methods in Pharmacology

  [1-3 Credits]

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  Course provides instruction in classical methods used in investigating the action of drugs. Hours by arrangement.
• PHARM 204 - Current Concepts in Pharmacology

  [2 Credits]

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  Two hours of faculty/student presentations and discussions on recent advances in the field of pharmacology. All areas of pharmacological research will be included, with an emphasis on the implications of recent research findings.
• PHARM 205 - Principles of Pharmacology

  [5 Credits]

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  This course is designed to introduce basic concepts in pharmacology to beginning students. The course will introduce students to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles, drug metabolism, and a comprehensive discourse on drug receptor interactions. The application of these principles to specific endeavors will also be discussed.
• PHARM 206 - Principles of Pharmacology II: Integrative and Systems Pharmacology

  [3 Credits]

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  The course utilizes an experimental approach to understanding the development of therapeutic agents for the treatment of diseases. Lectures will provide the pathophysiological basis of diseases and the rationale for developing specific therapeutic agents.
• PHARM 221 - Advanced Topics in Pharmacology

  [1-4 Credits]

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  Lecture/laboratory hours to be arranged depending on topic. This course is designed for advanced studies of special groups of drugs.