Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Unit Catalogue 2006/07

BB20024 Cell signalling

Credits: 6

Level: Intermediate

Semester: 1

Assessment: EX100

Requisites:

Before taking this unit you must take BB10005 and take BB10006

Aims: To provide students with the concepts and vocabulary of cell signalling, a key aspects of cell biology. To provide examples of how cells communicate, how cell signalling is studied and to illustrate the importance of cell signalling, particularly in growth, development and cancer.
Learning Outcomes:
After taking this course the student should be able to:
1. Explain the major methods used to study cell signalling,
2. Demonstrate knowledge of major cell signalling systems and intracellular signalling systems,
3. Identify features that are either unique or common to different signalling systems.
Skills:
Written communication T/FA, Information handling and retrieval T/FA, Working independently T/F.
Content:
Growth factors and the regulation of cell proliferation during mammalian growth and in cancer.
Tyrosine kinase receptors and the MAP kinase pathway.
Hormones and intracellular receptors.
G-protein coupled receptors (especially those involved in the perception of light, smell and taste), and the Ca2+ and cAMP second messenger systems.
Signalling systems that involve protein cleavage.

University | Catalogues for 2006/07