In this course, we will explore the smaller side of biology: molecular biology. We’ll cover basic topics including cell biology and how cells can go “rogue” and turn into cancer, how energy from the sun is transferred to fuel our bodies, basics of genetics and inheritance, and genetic technologies. At the end of this course, we will discuss ethical and moral implications of several exciting and new genetic technologies.
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What You Will Learn
- Explain how the body maintains control of cells and how loss of control can lead to cancer.
- Describe how energy is passed through the biosphere and why (most) of life is dependent on the sun.
- Explain the basics of genetics, including epigenetics, and how each relates to our phenotype.
- Describe at least three different genetic technologies currently impact society and give pro and against arguments for each.
Course 2 of 4 in the Biology Everywhere Specialization
Syllabus
WEEK 1
Cells Gone Wild: Cancer
In this module, we will explore cell biology with particular attention to one application of cell biology to our daily lives, cancer.
WEEK 2
Energy: From The Sun to Your Granola Bar
In this module, we will discuss energy, including why the plants are the basis for (most) of life on earth and how we can harness these fundamental biochemical reactions for making certain foods and beverages, such as bread and beer.
WEEK 3
Mom Genes: DNA, Genetics, and Parenthood
In this module, we will explore the basic of genetics including a discussion of epigenetics.
WEEK 4
Oh, Brave New World
In this module, we will explore new genetic technologies, with a particular eye to ethical and moral implications of new technologies.
