Biotechnology Undergraduate Certificate

Provides a theoretical and practical foundation in laboratory science. Students are introduced to the scientific method, laboratory mathematics, chemistry, biochemistry, cell and molecular biology, and immunology. Students learn hands-on solution making, electrophoresis, protein quantitation and other commonly used laboratory methods. Emphasis is placed on lab safety, proper handling of instruments, careful following of written instructions for lab procedures, maintenance of lab notebooks, and data collection, presentation and analysis. Laboratory course. One semester of biology, two semesters of chemistry and GMS BT 208 or equivalent.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course provides a detailed knowledge of the role of Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) and a Quality Department in the development and manufacture of biopharmaceutical products. Topics include the goals and obligations of the Food and Drug Administration, a review of the CGMP subparts, and the responsibilities of a Quality Department in ensuring product quality. Current Good Manufacturing Practices are the FDA's minimal requirements for manufacturing, processing, packing, and holding of a drug product. Emphasis will be on understanding the intent and practical application of these regulations. Topics will include the regulations and historical perspective, quality control concepts, case studies and examples of FDA enforcement. Material will be presented in lecture format, strongly supported by the use of videotape and trade journals, followed by interactive discussion and activities. Good Manufacturing Practices are current regulations and subject to change, therefore course topics and materials will reflect the most recent trends.  [ 4 cr. ]

Focuses on techniques used to isolate and identify viral pathogens associated with human disease. Through a series of lectures, the student takes a functional approach to this subject. Covers the biology, the immune response to viral infections, the genetics of viral replication, and viral pathogenesis. Offered every other year.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course emphasizes the molecular and cellular interactions involved in immune response. Topics covered include antibody structure and function; applications of monoclonal antibodies in biotechnology and medicine; gene rearrangements in B and T cells; cellular cooperation and the role of MHC; tolerance; and immunopathology (hypersensitivity, autoimmunity, transplantation, AIDS, cancer immunity and immunotherapy). Lab techniques covered include Flow Cytometry (FACs), ELISA, cell sorting, cell proliferation, cell death, and migration assays. Prereq: BT 342 and BT 413 or equivalent or consent of instructor. Cell culture techniques and knowledge of genetics is recommended.  [ 4 cr. ]

Familiarizes students with the theory and application of many biochemical techniques involved in protein purification and characterization, such as chromatography (ion exchange, gel permeation, hydrophobic affinity), electrophoresis and blotting techniques. Students learn to think critically about methodology, design a purification scheme, scale it up, and troubleshoot an existing plan. Special problems with recombinant proteins are also covered. The laboratory component will include a wide variety of conventional methods for protein isolation, purification, and characterization. Students need to have taken GMS BT 110 and 208.   [ 4 cr. ]

The course is comprised of a lecture part focusing on the structure, function, and analysis of DNA and RNA and a laboratory component in which students isolate, analyze, and manipulate DNA and RNA in the test tube. Experiments include the isolation of genomic DNA and RNA, followed by their analysis through gel electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, PCR, and blotting techniques. Students are introduced to recombinant DNA technology through bacterial transformation, plasmid preps, mapping of plasmids by restriction digests, and purification of recombinant protein from bacteria by column chromatography. The course also includes a bioinformatics component in which students use a web platform to access various genetic databases, retrieve genetic sequence information and analyze the sequences using free software for translation and restriction enzyme mapping. 4 credits. Prereq: BT 110; one semester of biology and two semesters of chemistry.  [ 4 cr. ]

Provides the student with an understanding of clinically important microorganisms. Students become familiar with the classification, pathogenicity, identification, and prevention and treatment of diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, and parasites as well as the workings of a modern clinical microbiology laboratory. Laboratory course.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course focuses on mammalian genetics and DNA structure and analysis. It is intended for students interested in pursuing a career in laboratory research in an academic or industrial setting. Topics include the molecular basis of human genetic disease, DNA structure and analysis, utilization of human genome project data, and use of Internet-based bioinformatics tools. The class includes lectures and student presentations.   [ 4 cr. ]

This course gives students a foundation in basic cell culture techniques used in modern cell culture labs. The topics covered will include aseptic technique, freezing and thawing of cell stocks, passage and maintenance of cells, and culture of adherent and suspension cells. Emphasis will be on practical hands- on experience and much of the class time will be devoted to laboratory work. A short lecture introduces relevant information and techniques to be performed in the laboratory. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to function in a cell culture laboratory at the level of a novice technician and be able to understand and follow basic cell culture protocols. Prereq: BT 110, BT 208 & BT 342.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course will present the major signal transduction pathways and their crosstalk, as well as their contribution in maintaining cellular homeostasis. We will examine malfunctions in these pathways that could lead to development of different diseases. In addition, the molecular logic that underlies current and future therapies will be explored. Prereq: BT 405 and BT 342 or equivalent.  [ 4 cr. ]

Cell culture has become an indispensable tool for all areas of biomedical science. In this course students will develop the necessary routine by taking care of particular cell lines throughout the entire course. At the same time, students will examine their cell lines using advanced techniques, such as transient and stable transfections, reporter gene assays, activation of signaling pathways, induction of cell differentiation, examination of cell cycle and apoptosis, fluorescent microscopy, and FACS analysis. At the end of the course, each group will present their findings during a poster session. Laboratory course. Prereq: BT 454 and BT 413 or consent of instructor.  [ 4 cr. ]

This course will focus on the cellular and molecular changes that underlie the development and progression of human cancer. We will examine the pathways and processes that involve oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes to understand how they can contribute to cancer. Complex interactions including angiogenesis, tumor immunology, invasion and metastasis will be studied as well. In addition, we will cover targeted approaches to cancer therapy and the latest scientific research including cancer epigenetics, microRNAs and cancer stem cells.   [ 4 cr. ]