Introduction to the molecular understanding of brain function, building upon the basis of biochemistry and biology. Four specific themes are covered: (i) structural neurochemistry and neural membranes; (ii) synapses, transmitters and receptors; (iii) cellular and (iv) medical and behavioral neurochemistry.
This course covers the clinical manifestations, physiology, pathophysiology and treatment of common human diseases, with focus on the underlying biochemical basis of the diseases and treatment.
NOTE: The course will not be offered in 2021-2022.
Principles and roles of various disciplines in biotechnology, including manipulation of various cell types, gene expression, immunochemistry, protein engineering, downstream processing, cell and enzyme immobilization, and fermentation; case studies in the development and applications of biotechnology.
Many variations in the human population such as hair thickness, tolerance to milk in adults, high blood cholesterol and susceptibility to certain types of cancer can be determined by genetic factors. This course will cover the principles and up to date technologies for the discovery and analysis of human genetic variation. The application of basic scientific knowledge in a clinical setting will be discussed.
Current status and future potential of Biotechnology, with emphasis on the fundamentals of plant molecular biology and biotechnology. Using examples of marketable products from food industry, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and agricultural fields. The role of basic research in the development and production biotechnology products will be described.
Processes of cellular and tissue differentiation, early and late embryonic development spanning from molecular, cellular, organ to organismal levels; reproduction, fertilization, gastrulation, neurulation, axis formation, body patterning, cellular communication, short and long range signaling, sex determination, aging, environmental influence and evolutionary significance of different regulatory mechanisms.
