An introduction to the principles and applications of biophysical techniques, including ultra-centrifugation, electrophoresis, optical and NMR spectroscopies, scattering and diffraction techniques, and radioisotope labeling and detection techniques. Basic concepts of thermodynamics at the cellular level and chemical kinetics.
Classification, identification, structure, physiology, and genetics of microorganisms; importance of microorganisms in health, environment, and biotechnology.
Structure and life processes in animals; neurophysiology; circulation; respiration; digestion and absorption; metabolism and energy regulation; muscle and movement; endocrinology.
Cell structure; the molecular biology of cell signaling and cell cycle control; oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes; the mechanism of cell division; cell junctions and adhesion; cytoskeleton; programmed cell death.
Exploration and understanding of both theories and practical techniques in cell biology through tutorials and hands-on experiments. Microscopy, cell culture, cell fractionation; and their applications in studying cell division and gene expression will be covered.
Principles of bioenergetics and cellular structures; glycolysis, citric acid cycle, electron transport, oxidative phosphorylation and chemiosmosis; carbohydrate, lipid, amino acid and nucleotide metabolism; photosynthesis and nitrogen fixation.
Structure and life processes in plants; cellular structures; molecular and cellar mechanism; transport of water and nutrients; nutrition and soil; reproduction; photosynthesis; growth and development; biotechnology.
This is a practical course accompanied by the lecture course LIFS 1902. It provides students with some basic concepts and hands-on experience in biological investigation within the areas covered by LIFS1902, including plant biology, human biology and ecology. The emphasis is on the understanding and application of the scientific principles underlying the experiments.
Credit(s): 1
Prerequisite(s):
LIFS 1901 OR level 3 or above in HKDSE 1x Biology OR a passing grade in AL/AS Biology
Continuation of research project started in LIFS 4971 and to be conducted under faculty supervisor. To include design of experiments, analysis of data and to be completed with poster presentation and written report.
A research project conducted under faculty supervision. Course to include background research, design of experiments and analysis of data. Approval by a faculty supervisor is required to enroll in the course.
