BIO1101 CELL BIOLOGY

The basic functional unit of life is a cell.  This fact is emphasized by the cell theory and concept of the origin of life both which are a foundation of this course.  Cell biology forms a fundamental base upon which all modern biology and applied health sciences are built.  Within this holistic domain, this course puts emphasis on the study of the structure, biochemistry, physiology and function of both plant and animal cells - including bioenergetics, membrane transport, and cellular communication, flow of genetic information and, cell division and growth.  In addition, the role cell biology in immunity and infection will be explored.  Experiments will be conducted to aid the understanding of some of the concepts of the course following the theoretical framework outlined. 

Course Objectives
At the end of the course the students should:

• Have gained a conceptual understanding of the cell as a unit of life, cell theory and the origin of life
• Know the internal and external architecture of both Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cells including the fundamental differences between the two cell types
• Comprehend the elaborate traffic processes within, out and into the cell.
• Think analytically, interpret experimental observations based on concepts learned during the lecture sessions, and strengthen problem – solving skills
• Effectively demonstrate Cell Biology relates to other areas of Biology and applied Biomedical Sciences

Expected outcomes

• Appreciation of the origin life and evolutionary links
• Comprehensive Biology graduates and teachers who can appropriately relate and integrate Cell Biology to areas of biological sciences.
• Appreciation of how the understanding of cell biology has resulted in advances in applied Biomedical Sciences, and discuss current biomedical issues in a cellular context