Some courses displayed may not be offered every year. For actual course offerings by quarter, please consult the Quarterly Class Search
or GOLD (for current students). To see the historical record of when a particular course has been taught in the past, please visit the Course Enrollment Histories.
Graduate
EEMB 595SF.
Group Studies
Lower Division
MCDB 1A. Introductory Biology I
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1A-B-C with a grade of C- or better (Chem 1C may be taken concurrently), or a score of 4 or better on either the Advanced Placement Chemistry or Advanced Placement Biology exams.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Summer, Fall. Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 6 not allowed. Reduced credit of 2.0 units will be given to those who have credit for MCDB 6.
Introduction to biochemistry, cell biology and development, and genetics.
MCDB 1AL. Introductory Biology Laboratory I
(1)
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit students who have completed Biology 4A or MCDB 4A or 5AL.
Laboratory investigations illustrate basic principles of biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, development, and genetics.
MCDB 1AZ. Selected Topics from MCDB 1A
(1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of department.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 4AZ or MCDB 4AZ or 5AZ.
Designed for transfer students who have completed part of MCDB 1A through transfer work. Topics will be selected by the department, as appropriate, to fulfill the introductory biology requirement at UCSB.
MCDB 1B. Introductory Biology II--Physiology
(3)
STAFF
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A and Chemistry 1A-B-C with a grade of C- or better; or MCDB 1A with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Spring, Summer. Concurrent enrollment in EEMB 7 not allowed. Reduced credit of 2.0 units will be given for those who have completed EEMB 7.
Introduction to animal and plant physiology.
MCDB 1BL. Introductory Biology Laboratory II
(1)
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A; and, concurrent enrollment in MCDB 1B and EEMB 2.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 4B or EEMB 4B or5BL or MCDB 4B or 5BL. Same course as EEMB 2L.
Laboratory investigations illustrate basic principles of animal and plant physiology, ecology, and evolution.
MCDB 1BZ. Selected Topics from MCDB 1B
(1-2)
Prerequisite: Consent of department.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 4BZ or EEMB 4BZ or 5BZ or MCDB 4BZ or 5BZ.
Designed for transfer students who have completed part of MCDB 1B through transfer work. Topics will be selected by the department, as appropriate, to fulfill the introductory biology requirement at UCSB.
MCDB 1LL. Introductory Biology Laboratory I
(1.5)
CHRISTOFFERSEN, FINKELSTEIN
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Summer. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 4A or MCDB 4A or 5AL, or 1AL.
Laboratory investigations illustrate basic principles of biochemistry, molecular and cell biology, development, genetics & physiology.
MCDB 6. Principles of Molecular and Cellular Biology for Brain Sciences
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Chem 1A-B with a minimum grade of C- or better in each.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall. Not open to Prebio/EEMB/MCDB majors. Can't be used in lieu of MCDB 1A for prereqs. Unsuitable for health professions requiring 1 yr of intro bio. Can't take concurrently or if MCDB 1A completed.
Introduction to basic biochemistry, cell biology and genetics. Topics include biological macromolecules, molecular basis of heredity, cell theory, cellular organelles, cell division cycle, mitosis, meiosis, fertilization, early development, Mendelian genetics, and molecular genetics. Biological principles will be taught with examples involving the nervous system where appropriate. Designed for Psychological and Brain Sciences majors.
MCDB 11. Biology Mentoring and Engagement I
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Chemistry 1A or Chemistry 2A.
Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors. Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Seminar for first year pre-biology students. Focus is on developing scientific study skills and fostering the confidence and motivation involved in higher cognitive learning. Students will engage in peer mentoring activities, problem-solving exercises and relevant discussion promoting academic success.
MCDB 12. Biology Mentoring and Engagement II
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Chemistry 1B or 2B.
Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors. Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Seminar for first year pre-biology students. Emphasis on developing critical thinking skills by utilizing interactive panel discussions ascertaining why biologists care about subjects like chemistry and math. Deliberation on biology news articles designed to get students thinking like scientists.
MCDB 13. Biology Mentoring and Engagement III
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Chemistry 1C or Chemistry 2C.
Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Seminar for first year pre-biology students. Active learning enhancement via topics exploring students' self-identifying themselves as scientists, conversation on careers within the sciences and health professions, and discussion regarding the research process in order spark motivation and questions.
MCDB 14. Biology Mentoring and Engagement IV
(1)
GONZALEZ, WILTON
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Chemistry 1C or Chemistry 2C.
Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Seminar for first year pre-biology students. A laboratory course designed to be a research experience for undergraduate students where they learn to apply the scientific method, critical thinking and experimental design to test relevant hypotheses in molecular biology.
MCDB 15AAZZ. Current Biology Topics for Freshmen
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Freshmen/1st year Prebiology majors only.
Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors. Quarters usually offered: Winter, Spring, Fall. Open to Pre-Bio 1st year freshmen only. MCDB 15AA-ZZ courses may be taken for a Maximum of 3 total units, provided letter designations are different, with a limit of 1 MCDB 15AA-ZZ course per quarter.
This seminar series is designed to introduce freshmen biology major students to current topics in the biological sciences. Each instructor will select a specific topic of interest that will be the focus of the course.
MCDB 15HG. Past, Present, and Future of the Human Genome
MCDB 15JS. SCIENCE/fiction
MCDB 15NG. Sensory Neuroscience at the Dining Table
MCDB 15SF. Biology in Science Fiction
MCDB 20. Concepts of Biology
(4)
LOW
Enrollment Comments: Open to non-majors. Quarters usually offered: Winter. Not open for credit toward graduation to students who completed EEMB 20, EEMB 22, EEMB W 22, MCDB 1A, EEMB 2, MCDB 1B, or EEMB 3. Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 1A, EEMB 22 or EEMB W 2 not allowed.
Introduction to the science of life; cells, genetics, metabolism, molecular biology, physiology, natural selection, evolution, ecosystems; current news and controversial topics in biology.
MCDB 21. The Immune System and Aids
(4)
EARDLEY
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 21.
The basic properties of the immune system; the basic biology of aids and AIDS virus infection; and the biology of other sexually transmitted diseases.
MCDB 23. Biology of Cancer
(3)
KOHL
Enrollment Comments: Open to non-majors. Quarters usually offered: Summer. Not open to students who have completed MCDB 1A. Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 1A is not allowed.
An introduction to developments regarding the etiology and treatment of various cancers. Lectures compare normal cells and tissues with those which have become malignnant. Discussion of causes, treatment, and prevention of specific cancers.
MCDB 26. Contemporary Nutrition
(4)
EARDLEY
Presents the scientific basis for human nutrition including dietary nutrients and requirements, energy balance in health and disease, and needs of various life stages. Food safety, preservation, and undernutrition throughout the world is discussed.
MCDB 28. Human Genetics and Society
(3)
CHRISTOFFERSEN
Enrollment Comments: Open to non-majors. Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Principles of Mendelian inheritance as illustrated by human traits and diseases; chromosomes and sex determination; distribution of genes in populations; social, cultural and ethical implications of modern genome research are reviewed. Appropriate for non-science majors.
MCDB 29. Fundamentals of Biomedical Research
(3)
KATHLEEN FOLTZ
Recommended Preparation: High School Biology.Enrollment Comments: Open to non-majors. Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Basics of the scientific method as applied to basic biomedical research; examples of how basic research influences human health. Students will develop the intellectual tools to deconstruct primary literature and interpret data.
MCDB 84. Internship in Biological Sciences
(1-5)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Lower-division standing; instructor and departmental approval required.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall. Students must have a 2.5 cumulative grade-point average. May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 15 units, but no units may be applied toward the major.
Opportunity to obtain practical biological-related research experience by working under faculty direction as an intern with local, state, federal, or private agencies. A written report will be submitted for evaluation.
MCDB 90A. Honors Forum in Molecular, Cellular, Developmental Biology
(2)
KOHL
Prerequisite: Honors standing in College of Letters and Science and consent of instructor
Seminar for selected students in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. Students will be introduced to research opportunities in the department. Focus will center on the use of the science library and the internet as tools to produce a basic research paper.
MCDB 92. Special Topics in Biology
(1-4)
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 units.
Special topics in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. Course content varies. Information may be obtained in department office.
MCDB 98. Readings in Biology
(1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and department.
Enrollment Comments: Students are required to have a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade-point average and are limited to 3 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199AA-ZZ courses combined. Students are limited to 6 units of Biology 98 and MCDB 98 combined. Maximum of 3 units/quarter.
Special readings on selected topics in biology. Individual conferences one hour every week. Designed to broaden the outlook and experience of advanced lower-division students. Hours and credit by arrangement with any member of the staff.
MCDB 99. Introduction to Research
(1-3)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor and department.
Enrollment Comments: Students are required to have a minimum 3.0 cumulative grade-point average and are limited to 3 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199AA-ZZ courses combined. Students are limited to 6 units of Biology 99 and MCDB 99 combined. Maximum of 3 units/quarter.
Laboratory experience for advanced lower-division students. Hours and credit by arrangement with any member of the staff.
Upper Division
MCDB 101A.
Molecular Genetics I: Prokaryotes
(4)
LOW, THROWER
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A-B, EEMB 2; and, Chemistry 1A-B-C; completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Summer, Fall. Concurrent enrollment in EEMB 129 not allowed. Reduced credit of 2.0 units will be given to students who have received credit for EEMB 129.
From the double helix and genetic code to the latest breakthroughs. Structure, function, evolution and manipulation of DNA, RNA. Replication, expression, recombination, complementation, and their regulation in prokaryotes (bacteria, plasmids, viruses). Recombinant DNA technology in medicine, research, agriculture and industry.
MCDB 101AH.
Molecular Genetics I: Prokaryotes - Honors
(1)
DAVID LOW, DOUG THROWER
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 101A; consent of instructor.
Honors section designed to permit an in-depth analysis of topics relating to genetics.
MCDB 101B.
Molecular Genetics II: Eukaryotes
(4)
CHRISTOFFERSEN, SIMPSON
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B, and MCDB 101A. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Spring, Summer. Concurrent enrollment in EEMB 129 not allowed. Reduced credit of 2.0 units will be given to students who have received credit for EEMB 129.
Mendelian and molecular genetics. Replication, recombination, transmission and expression of DNA in eukaryotic organisms from yeast to man. Uses of traditional genetics and modern molecular techniques, including molecular genetic approaches to the study of human disease.
MCDB 101BH.
Molecular Genetics II: Eukaryotes - Honors
(1)
CHRISTOFFERSEN, SIMPSON
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 101B; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Honors section designed to permit an in-depth analysis of topics relating to genetics.
MCDB 101L.
Molecular Genetics Laboratory
(4)
JOSHI
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A-B or EEMB 129; MCDB 101B may be taken concurrently. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Current molecular genetics techniques used to study model organisms. Module1 - Forward genetics: Mutagenesis and genetic mapping of mutants using single nucleotide polymorphisms, classical Mendelian inheritance. 2) Reverse genetics: gene knockdown by RNAi. 3) Genetic analysis of cell signaling. 4) Cellular reprogramming using transgenic strains. Techniques: PCR, gel electrophoresis, Computer based sequence analysis, fluorescence and light microscopy and imaging. Experiments are based on ongoing research at UCSB. Students get to design their own experiment in final module.
MCDB 103.
Cell Biology
(4)
CLEGG
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B. Completion of all listed prerequisites wita grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 137.
An introduction to the structure and function of cell organelles; membranes, nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, endoplasmic reticulum, golgi apparatus, lysosomes, microbodies, microtubules, cilia, centrioles, and microfilaments.
MCDB 103H.
Cell Biology - Honors
(1)
MA
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 103; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
The overall goal of MCDB 103H is to extend the concepts covered in MCDB 103 and apply them to the context of research. For each selected topic, students read a short review article in the first week which provides the historical background and current consensus, followed by a landmark research article in the following week. The course is in the format of journal club with an emphasis on open discussion. Each week, a group of students give an oral presentation and lead class discussion.
MCDB 103L.
Laboratory in Molecular Cell Biology
(4)
CLEGG
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B, and MCDB 103 (may be taken concurrently). Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 137L.
Laboratory techniques of modern cell biology; molecular dissection of cell structure and function.
MCDB 108A.
Biochemistry - Structure and Function of Macromolecules
(4)
ACOSTA-ALVEAR, SEARS
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B; and Chemistry 1A-B-C; and Chemistry 109A-B-C (Chem 109C may be taken concurrently). Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Summer, Fall. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 108A or MCDB W 108A. Reduced credit of 2.0 units for those who have completed MCDB 110. Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 110 not allowed.
Repeat Comments: Students needing to repeat MCDB 108A due to a poor grade the first time, can repeat it either as MCDB 108A or MCDB W 108A. Only one repeat attempt between the 2 courses is allowed.
Introduction to the structures and functions of proteins, including enzymes, with emphasis on their basic architecture and biological mechanisms of action and regulation. Methods used for characterizing proteins and analyzing enzyme kinetic data are also emphasized.
MCDB 108AH.
Biochemistry - Structure and Function of Macromolecules - Honors
(1)
ACOSTA-ALVEAR, SEARS
Prerequisite: MCDB 108A or MCDB W 108A (may be taken concurrently). Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Honors component of MCDB 108A or W108A designed to permit an in-depth consideration of selected aspects of the structure/function relationships of proteins and nucleic acids.
MCDB 108B.
Biochemistry - Bioenergetics, Enzymology, and Metabolism
(4)
LEW
Prerequisite: MCDB 108A or MCDB W 108A with a grade of C or better. Chem 109C with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 108B. Reduced credit of 2.0 units for those who have completed MCDB 110. Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 110 not allowed.
Principles of human energy metabolism. Chemistry and physiology of the major metabolic pathways of energy production. Metabolic interrelationships of the major body organs. Applications to human nutrition and disease, exercise, starvation, obesity, and atherosclerosis.
MCDB 108C.
Biochemistry - Computational & Systems Biology
(4)
LOUIS
Prerequisite: MCDB 108A-B with a grade of C or better or MCDB W 108A and MCDB 108B with a grade of C or better; Physics 6A-B-C with minimum grade of C (Physics 6C may be taken concurrently); Math 34A-B with a grade of C or better or Math 3A-B with a grade of C or better or Math 2A-B with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with MCDB 208C. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Models of Biochemical and Cellular Systems. Introductory systems-biology approach to model the design and the function of biological systems. Students will develop an intuition about physical concepts that are fundamental to discuss how biological organisms acquire and process information from the environment. Those concepts and tools will cover probabilities and basic dynamical systems theory. Students will build models of processes of increasing complexity, ranging from viral dynamics, bacterial resistance to drugs, the maintenance of homeostatic equilibrium (trp operon), biological oscillators (mitotic clock) and genetic switches underlying cellular decisions (bacteriophage lambda and lac operon).
MCDB 109L.
Laboratory in Biochemistry
(4)
LEW
Prerequisite: MCDB 108A or MCDB W 108A; and MCDB 108B; and MCDB 1A-1B. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 109L.
Laboratory techniques in biochemistry. Focus will be on contemporary biochemical techniques used in biomedical research including the analysis of proteins, recombinant DNA expression and protein purification, enzyme regulation, steady-state kinetic analysis and metabolic control. Emphasis will be on both theoretical and practical aspects.
MCDB 110.
Principles of Biochemistry
(4)
ROTHMAN, LOW
Prerequisite: Chemistry 1A-B-C; and Chemistry 109A-B. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Spring. Not for MCDB majors & physiology, nor for those who have completed MCDB 108A-B. Reduced credit of 2.0 units for those who have completed MCDB 108A. Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 108A not allowed.
An introduction to molecular structures and mechanisms of living systems.
MCDB 111.
Human Physiology
(4)
SMITH
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 100.
Fundamentals of human physiology at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels. Emphasis on homeostatic mechanisms regulating intercellular communication, muscle function, circulation, metabolism and body fluid balance/composition.
MCDB 111H.
Human Physiology - Honors
(1)
SMITH
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 111; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Honors section designed to permit an in-depth analysis of topics relating to fundamentals of human physiology at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels. Emphasis on homeostatic mechanisms regulating intercellular communication, muscle function, circulation, metabolism and body fluid balance/composition.
MCDB 112.
Developmental Biology
(4)
FOLTZ
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B, and EEMB 3; and MCDB 101A or EEMB 129. Completion of all listed prerequisties with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall. Not open for credit to students who have completed Zoology 100.
Modern aspects of animal development. Molecular and cellular mechanisms of embroygenesis.
MCDB 112H.
Developmental Biology - Honors
(1)
FOLTZ
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 112; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Honors section designed to permit an in-depth analysis of topics relating to the mechanisms of animal development, from single cells to the whole organism, using examples from vertebrates and invertebrates studied in terms of morphology, physiology, genetics and biochemistry.
MCDB 112L.
Laboratory in Developmental Biology
(3)
FOLTZ
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B, and EEMB 3, and MCDB 101A, and concurrent enrollment in MCDB 112. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Modern laboratory techniques in developmental biology. Experimental aproaches to development using several animal model systems.
MCDB 118.
Plant Development
(4)
FINKELSTEIN
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B; and, MCDB 101A or EEMB 129. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 112 or Botany 111.
Differentiation and morphogenesis of plants: mechanisms of cell-cell interactions.
MCDB 123.
Experimental Strategies in Physical Biochemistry
(4)
WAITE
Prerequisite: MCDB 108A or MCDB W 108A or Chemistry 142A with a grade of C or better.
Presentation of selected contemporary concepts and methodologies for determining the structure, size, shape, charge, and interactive behavior of biological macromolecules.
MCDB 126.
Basic Pharmacology
(5)
THROWER
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A (may be taken concurrently) or Chemistry 142C; Chemistry 109A-B-C. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Repeat Comments: Students who have completed MCDB 126A will only receive 2 units for MCDB 126. Students who have completed MCDB 126C will only receive 3 units for MCDB 126. Not open for credit to students who have completed both MCDB 126A and 126C.
Covers a wide range of drugs with a focus on drugs used to treat disorders of the nervous and cardiovascular systems, antibacterial agents, antivirals, and anticancer drugs. Also looks at the pharmacology of inflammation and coagulation. The goal is to understand the underlying physiology behind disorders of these systems and the mechanisms of the drugs used to treat them. Additional out-of-class hours are necessary.
MCDB 126AL.
Pharmacology Lab I
(4)
STOYAN, THROWER
Prerequisite: MCDB 126 (may be taken concurrently) with a minimum grade of C; or MCDB 126A with a minimum grade of C.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall. Not open for credit to students who have completed EEMB 126AL.
Analysis of drug sites and machanisms of action using isolated tissues, organs, and intact animal preparations.
MCDB 126B.
Basic Pharmacology
(4)
CAROL VANDENBERG
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A or Chemistry 142C; Chemistry 109A-B-C. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Recommended Preparation: MCDB 108A.Enrollment Comments: MCDB 108A is strongly recommended. Not open for credit to students who completed Biology 119B.
Receptor signaling mechanisms; pharmacology of neurotransmitter and hormone receptors; molecular and cellular mechanisms of drug-receptor interactions.
MCDB 126BH.
Basic Pharmacology II: Hormone and Neurotransmitter Receptors and Signaling- Honors
(1)
VANDENBERG
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 126B; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Honors section designed to permit an indepth analysis of topics relating to receptor signaling mechanisms; pharmacology of neurotransmitter and hormone receptors; molecular and cellular mechanisms of drug-receptor interactions.
MCDB 126BL.
Pharmacology Laboratory II
(4)
CAROL VANDENBERG
Prerequisite: MCDB 126B (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 119BL.
An introduction to molecular and biochemical techniques in pharmacology; drug-receptor binding; receptor isolation; pharmacokinetics; techniques to evaluate potency, concentration and effects of hormones and their receptors.
MCDB 131.
General Microbiology
(4)
HAYES
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A; Chemistry 109A-B-C (Chem 109C may be taken concurrently), or Chemistry 109A-B and MCDB 110. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 104 or 104A.
Focuses on the general biology in microbes, primarily prokaryotes. Topics include the structure, physiology, and development of microorganisms and microbial communities, their culture and control, microbial genomics & metagenomics, and the importance of diverse microbes in food, agriculture, ecology and medicine.
MCDB 131L.
Laboratory in General Microbiology
(2)
COOPER
Prerequisite: MCDB 131 (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 104 or 104L.
Laboratory experiments dealing with the isolation, cultivation, and physiological, biochemical and genetic analysis of diverse microorganisms.
MCDB 132.
Bacterial Pathogenesis
(3)
MAHAN
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter. MCDB 131 recommended. Not open for credit to students who have completed MCDB 139 (MCDB 139 and MCDB 132 cannot be taken concurrently). Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 128.
Repeat Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed MCDB 139 (MCDB 139 and MCDB 132 cannot be taken concurrently).
The mechanisms by which bacterial pathogens cause disease. Investigation of the bacterial gene products that are produced during infection to understand the metabolic, physiological, and genetic factors that contribute to the virulence of bacterial pathogens.
MCDB 132L.
Bacterial Pathogenesis Laboratory
(3)
MAHAN
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 132.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 128L.
The latest molecular, biochemical, and genetic techniques available for theidentification of microbial gene products that contribute to infection. Study of the regulatory parameters that govern their expression.
MCDB 133.
Molecular and Cellular Immunobiology
(5)
SEARS
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 123.
Introduction to the current concepts of immunology. Emphasis on immunoglobulin structure and function, cell-cell cooperation in the immune response, and the role of major histocompatibility complex and cytokines in regulating immune responsiveness.
MCDB 133H.
Immunobiology-Honors
(1)
SEARS
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 133.
Honors component of MCDB 133 focusing on selected aspects of the immune system and its components using a web browser to run interactive computer assignments.
MCDB 133L.
Molecular and Cellular Immunobiology Lab
(4)
STOYAN
Prerequisite: MCDB 133 with a grade of C or better (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 123L.
Introduction to modern laboratory methods in immunology; properties and characterization of immunoglobulins and immunoglobulin-secreting cells; introduction to hybridoma technology; characterization of effector and regulatory T cells using functional assays.
MCDB 134.
General Animal Virology
(4)
SAMUEL
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A or EEMB 129 with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 122.
An introduction to the biology of animal viruses with emphasis on the biochemical and biophysical properties of viruses; the mechanisms by which animal viruses replicate; the cellular effects of and response to viral infection; and selected aspects of medical virology.
MCDB 134H.
General Animal Virology-Honors
(1)
SAMUEL
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A; concurrent enrollment in MCDB 134. Completion of all prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Honors virology course designed to permit an in-depth consideration and analysis of selected aspects of the biology and biochemistry of animal viruses, the mechanisms by which they replicate, and mechanisms of antiviral innate immunity.
MCDB 135.
Cellular Growth Control and Oncogenesis
(4)
BALLESTER
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A-B with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 138.
Focuses on mechanisms of growth control of eukaryotes. Topics include: the properties of mammalian cells in culture and how they relate to malignant cells, growth factors and their receptors, cell cycle control, oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes.
MCDB 135H.
Cellular Growth Control and Oncogenesis - Honors
(1)
FOLTZ
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 135; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Honors section designed to permit an in-depth analysis of topics relating to Cellular Growth Control and Oncogenesis.
MCDB 136H.
Cytokine Action and Viral Pathogenesis
(2)
SAMUEL
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A and MCDB 101B (101B may be taken concurrently) with a minimum grade of C.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Honors virology course designed to permit an in-depth consideration of selected aspects of the mechanisms of action of cytokines, with emphasis on the antiviral properties of interferons and their roles in host to viral infection and viral pathogenesis.
MCDB 138.
Medical Immunology
(4)
SEARS
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A OR EEMB 129 with a grade of C or better.
Recommended Preparation: Prior completion of MCDB 101B and MCDB 133 with grades of C or better are recommended.Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring. Not open for credit to students who have completed MCDB W 138.
Repeat Comments: Students needing to repeat MCDB 138 or MCDB W 138 due to a poor grade the first time, can repeat it either as MCDB 138 or MCDB W 138. Only one repeat attempt between the 2 courses is allowed.
By focusing on recent groundbreaking advances in our understanding of the vertebrate immune system, this course explores the contrasting mechanisms of protective immunity against parasites and cancer with various immune disorders that mainly stem from immune dysregulation, such as autoimmunity, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), allergies, and other diseases. By engaging in interactive, case-based computer exercises, students will have an opportunity to emulate the discovery of the underlying biological defects that give rise to these and other immune-related diseases.
MCDB 139.
Medical Microbiology
(4)
LOW
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B, and EEMB 3. Completion of all prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring. Not open for credit to students who have completed MCDB 132 (MCDB 132 and MCDB 139 cannot be taken concurrently). MCDB 139 should not be taken by Microbiology Majors. Not open for credit to st
Study of the characteristics of bacteria and viruses, both pathogenic and adventitious, as they are associated with diseases of humans.
MCDB 139H.
Medical Microbiology - Honors
(1)
LOW
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 139; consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with MCDB 139. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Honors section designed to permit an in-depth analysis of topics relating to Medical Microbiology.
MCDB 140L.
Recombinant DNA Methods
(4)
SMITH, S. LOW
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A-B and 110; or MCDB 101A-B and MCDB 108A-B-C (MCDB 108C may be taken concurrently); or MCDB 101A-B and MCDB W 108A and MCDB 108B-C (MCDB 108C may be taken concurrently). Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 132.
Basic techniques of molecular cloning. Screening of recombinant cDNA libraries, polymerase chain reaction, restriction endonucleases, gel electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, nucleic acid hybridization.
MCDB 145.
Post-translational Protein Processing
(4)
WAITE
Prerequisite: MCDB 108A or MCDB W 108A or Chemistry 142A with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring. Same course as Chemistry 151.
Structure/function relationships in interesting macromolecules isolated from marine organisms. Focus is on well-characterized pathways from horseshoe crabs, abolones, mussels, and fish as well as others.
MCDB 146.
Stem Cell Biology in Health and Disease
(4)
CLEGG
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A OR EEMB 129 with a minimum grade of C; and, MCDB 103 OR MCDB 112 with a minimum grade of C.
Enrollment Comments: Students must have a cumulative 3.0 for the proceeding 2 quarter(s). Designed for majors. Concurrently offered with MCDB 246. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Basic biology of embryonic and adult stem cells and nuclear transfer, with emphasis on latest findings from the current literature.
MCDB 149.
Mariculture for the 21st Century: Research Frontiers
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 149. Same course as EEMB 149.
Recent progress and new directions in research increasing production of valuable marine animals, plants, and microorganisms. Control of reproduction, development, growth and disease in marine species; problems encountered in commercializing production; regional and biological solutions; the role of modern biotechnology.
MCDB 151.
Neurobiology I: Cellular Organization and Biophysics of the Nervous System
(4)
FISHER
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A and 1B. Completion of both prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for students who have completed Biology 105 or MCDB 114 for a C or better.
Repeat Comments: MCDB 151 is a legal repeat of MCDB 114.
Properties of the nervous system ranging from single cells to the whole organism, using examples from vertebrates and invertebrates studied in terms of morphology, physiology, and behavior.
MCDB 151H.
Neurobiology 1: Cellular Organization and Biophysics of the Nervous System - Honors
(1)
FISHER
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 151; consent of instructor.
Honors section designed to permit an indepth analysis of topics relating to the properties of the nervous system ranging from single cells to the whole organism, using examples from vertebrates and invertebrates studied in terms of morphology, physiology, and behavior.
MCDB 152.
Neurobiology II: Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology
(4)
KOSIK, C. MONTELL
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A-1B and MCDB 151; completion of all prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
This second course of a three quarter neurobiology course sequence (151/152/153) covers both top down systems level approaches and bottom up molecular approaches to major topics in neurobiology. These topics include mechanisms of sensory transduction, processing of sensory information within the brain, mechanisms of muscle control, cell signaling, neuronal plasticity, neuronal polarity, and the mapping of neural information to the brain.
MCDB 152H.
Neurobiology II: Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology - Honors
(1)
KOSIK, FISHER
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 152; consent of instructor.
Honors seminar designed to permit an indepth consideration and analysis of both top down systems level approaches and bottom up molecular approaches to major topics in neurobiology. These topics include mechanisms of sensory transduction in at least two selected sensory systems, processing of sensory information within the brain, mechanisms of muscle control, cell signaling, neuronal plasticity, neuronal polarity, and the mapping of neural information to the brain.
MCDB 153.
Neurobiology III: Developmental Neurobiology
(4)
FEINSTEIN
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A-1B; and, MCDB 101A or EEMB 129; completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Recommended Preparation: MCDB 112.Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 106 or MCDB 115. (However, legal repeat policy applies).
Repeat Comments: MCDB 153 is a legal repeat of MCDB 115.
The course begins with fertilization and moves through sequential stages in the development of the nervous system, including cell migration and differentiation, axon outgrowth and pathfinding, programmed cell death, synaptogenesis, learning, memory, neurodegenerative conditions and current strategies for neuronal regeneration.
MCDB 153H.
Neurobiology III: Developmental Neurobiology - Honors
(1)
FEINSTEIN
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 153; consent of instructor.
Repeat Comments: MCDB 153H is a legal repeat of MCDB 115H. Students receiving a C- or below in MCDB 115H can repeat the course as MCDB 153H.
Honors section designed to permit an indepth consideration and analysis of selcted topics relating to the development, maintenance, degeneratation and regeneration of the nervous system.
MCDB 161L.
Research Immersion in Molecular Biosciences
(6)
CHRISTOFFERSEN
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A-B with a minimum grade of B in each.
Recommended Preparation: At least two upper division courses in any of the following areas: genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, development, physiology with a grade of B or better.Enrollment Comments: Designed for majors. Quarters usually offered: Summer.
Intensive laboratory course covering basic approaches to biomedical research using model systems. Students will learn laboratory techniques as well as hypothesis building, experimental design, data analysis and data presentation.
MCDB 170.
Programming in Biology
(4)
KIM
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B; and MCDB 101A or EEMB 129 (may be taken concurrently); and Pstat 5A or Pstat 5LS or Math 4A. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with MCDB 270. Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Studying complex biological systems can be greatly facilitated by modern computing technologies. This course introduces essential computer programming concepts and algorithms to biology major students. Students learn logics of programming and apply it to gene sequence analysis (bioinformatics), simulation of dynamic systems (systems biology), and data analysis (statistics in biology).
MCDB 172.
Biological Dynamics
(4)
WILSON
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B; and MCDB 101A or EEMB 129; and either Math 4A OR MCCB 108C. Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
An introduction to mathematical models and computer simulations used to describe and understand time varying biological systems. Learning Objectives: Survey mathematical methods for describing the dependence on time of biological phenomena. Illustrate how to construct mathematical models to gain insights into complex biological systems. Develop working knowledge of a python code base that enables future evaluation of common classes of models applied to the study of biological dynamics.
MCDB 183.
Introduction to Teaching in Biology
(1-5)
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 5 units. may not be applied toward the major.
Students will assist instructor in teaching course in which the student previously received a grade of A- or better. Activities will be determined in consultation with the instructor and may include leading discussion, laboratory, or tutorial section(s), attending lectures, and grading exams.
MCDB 184.
Internship in Biological Sciences
(1-5)
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing; instructor and departmental approval required.
Enrollment Comments: Students must have a 2.5 cumulative grade-point average. may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 15 units, but no units may be applied toward the major (except Aquatic Biology, see restrictions in major narrative).
Opportunity to obtain practical biological-related research experience by working under faculty direction as an intern with local, state, federal, or private agencies. A written report will be submitted for evaluation.
MCDB 187.
Pharmacology Colloquia
(1)
WILSON, THROWER
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B, and EEMB 3 with a minimum grade of C or better in each prereq course.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 units, but only 2 units may be applied toward the major.
Research seminars on current research topics in pharmacology presented by invited speakers.
MCDB 188.
Literature in Plant Molecular Biology
(1)
FINKELSTEIN, CHRISTOFFERSEN
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Spring, Fall. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 168.
Critical reading and presentation of the current literature in plant molecular biology, cell biology and development.
MCDB 192.
Special Topics
(1-4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Chem 1A-B-C with a minimum grade of C; MCDB 1A-B and EEMB 2 with a minimum grade of C. Upper-division standing in EEMB or MCDB and consent of instructor or department.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 192 and EEMB 192. Maximum units for credit in major: 8 for B.S.; 4 for B.A.
Special topics of current importance in biological sciences. Course content will vary. Information may be obtained in department office.
MCDB 194AAZZ.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
(2)
Prerequisite: Upper-division standing and consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 194AA-ZZ and EEMB 194AA-ZZ to a maximum of 8 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 units. Maximum units for credit in major: 8 BS; 4 BA. See also credit limits with other courses in description of major requirements.
Oral reports by students.
MCDB 194A.
Biochemistry-Molecular Biology
MCDB 194B.
Biochemistry-Molecular Biology
MCDB 194BC.
Biochemistry/Molecular Biology
MCDB 194BG.
Bacterial Genetics.
MCDB 194CE.
C. Elegans Development and Behavior
MCDB 194D.
Diversity in STEM
MCDB 194DM.
Molecular Marine Biology and Marine Biotechnology
MCDB 194DS.
Molecular and Cellular Immunobiology.
MCDB 194DT.
Cell Cycle Regulation
MCDB 194DV.
Developmental Biology
MCDB 194DY.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
MCDB 194EO.
Genetics
MCDB 194H.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
MCDB 194HG.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
MCDB 194JS.
Advanced Topics in Neurobiology
MCDB 194KF.
Science for the Common Good
MCDB 194M.
Immune Cell Biology and Immunotherapy
MCDB 194ML.
Models of Living Systems
MCDB 194MP.
Microbial Pathogenesis
MCDB 194MR.
INTRODUCTION TO MICROSCOPY FOR THE BIO-SCIENCES
MCDB 194NB.
Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology
MCDB 194NC.
Neural Circuits
MCDB 194PJ.
Introduction to Hematology
MCDB 194RF.
Plant Development Genetics
MCDB 194SB.
Synthetic Biology
MCDB 194TW.
Group Studies for Advanced Students
MCDB 194V.
Mycology
MCDB 194X.
Cell Biology
MCDB 194ZM.
Cell Biology Topics
MCDB 197.
Directed Studies.
(1-5)
STAFF
Prerequisite: MCDB majors only; and, consent of instructor and department; and upper- division standing; and, two upper-division courses in MCDB or EEMB.
Enrollment Comments: Students must have a minimum grade-point average of 2.5 in upper-division major courses and are limited to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 197/198/199/199RA courses combined. Maximum units for credit defined on major sheets. See also credit limits with other courses in description of major requirements.
Hours and credit by arrangement with any faculty member.
MCDB 198.
Directed Readings
(1-5)
Prerequisite: MCDB majors only; and, consent of instructor and department; and upper- division standing; and, two upper-division courses in MCDB or EEMB.
Enrollment Comments: Students must have a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 in upper-division major courses and are limited to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199AA-ZZ courses combined. Maximum units for credit in major: 8 BS; 4 BA. See also credit limits with other courses in description of major requirements.
Individual conferences one hour every two weeks. special readings designed to broaden the outlook of students and to knit into a cohesive whole the basic principles underlying the major disciplines in the field.
MCDB 199.
Independent Studies
(1-5)
Prerequisite: MCDB majors only; and, consent of instructor and department; and upper-division standing; and, two upper-division courses in MCDB or EEMB.
Enrollment Comments: Students must have a minimum grade-point average of 3.0 in upper-division major courses and are limited to 5 units per quarter and 30 units total in all 98/99/198/199/199AA-ZZ courses combined. Maximum units for credit in major: 8 BS; 4 BA. See also credit limits with other courses in description of major requirements. Tutorial, 1-3 hours; field, 1-5 hours.
Hours and credit by arrangement with any faculty member. Laboratory or field.
Graduate
MCDB 203.
Cell Biology
(4)
MARTH
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A-AL or MCDB 1B-BL or EEMB 2-2L, or equivalents.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 237.
Introduction to the structure and function of cell organelles: membranes, nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, endoplasmic reticulum, golgi apparatus, lysosomes, microbodies, microtubules, cilia, centrioles, and microfilaments.
MCDB 208C.
Biochemistry - Computational & Systems Biology
(4)
LOUIS
Recommended Preparation: Basic physics and calculus strongly recommended. Not open to students who have taken MCDB 108C, MCDB 172,or MCDB 272. Building off foundational examples, students will develop and conduct a research project that will then be presented to the entire class. MCDB 208C will help bring a research component to MCDB 108C.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with MCDB 108C. Quarters usually offered: Spring. Interactions between students at all levels will be fostered so that graduate students will have an opportunity to develop their communication and mentorship skills with undergraduates.
Models of Biochemical and Cellular Systems. Introductory systems-biology approach to model the design and the function of biological systems. Students will develop an intuition about physical concepts that are fundamental to discuss how biological organisms acquire and process information from the environment. Those concepts and tools will cover probabilities and basic dynamical systems theory. Students will build models of processes of increasing complexity, ranging from viral dynamics, bacterial resistance to drugs, the maintenance of homeostatic equilibrium (trp operon), biological oscillators (mitotic clock) and genetic switches underlying cellular decisions (bacteriophage lambda and lac operon).
MCDB 212.
Molecular Virology
(5)
SAMUEL
Prerequisite: MCDB 108A-B-C and 101A-B or equivalent.
Consideration of selected animal viruses in terms of structure, mechanism of genetic expression, and effects of viral gene expression on cell function, as well as aspects of the virus-host interaction including viral persistence, interference, and interferon.
MCDB 218A.
Methods and Logic in Molecular Cell Biology I
(3)
STAFF
Recommended Preparation: Undergraduate course(s) in genetics and molecular biology.Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall. Required for MCDB Graduate students.
Repeat Comments: Can be repeated one time if student receives less than a B; graduate students are required to earn a grade of B or better.
Molecular genetics and gene regulation. Experimental design and approaches, and a focus on critical thinking and problem solving, will reveal how fundamental, highly significant biological problems are unraveled using molecular genetic strategies. Reading will be assigned from a mix of classic and current peer-reviewed papers.
MCDB 218B.
Methods and Logic in Molecular Cell Biology II
(5)
STAFF
Recommended Preparation: Undergraduate course(s) in genetics and molecular biology.Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter. Required for MCDB Graduate students
Repeat Comments: Can be repeated one time if student receives less than a B; graduate students are required to earn a grade of B or better.
Molecular cellular biology in a variety of model systems and contexts from an integrated perspective. A collection of approaches, and a focus on critical thinking and problem solving, will reveal how highly significant biological problems are unraveled using cutting edge technologies. Includes an introduction to bioinformatics, computational, and systems biology. Reading will be assigned from a mix of classic and current peer-reviewed papers.
MCDB 221.
Preparation and Evaluation of Research Proposals and Scientific Presentations
(3)
DE TOMASO, SIMPSON
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Instruction in preparation writing, and evaluation of research grant proposals. Overview of federal funding mechanisms, ethics in research, the peer review and proposal evaluation processes, and general strategies in communication of scientific ideas including poster and oral presentations. This course is writing based and includes instruction and guidance on applying to NSF and NIH Pre-Doctoral Fellowships.
MCDB 223.
Signal Transduction
(2)
BELLESTER, MAHAN
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
A cell's growth is controlled by positive and negative cues from its surroundings. We will discuss the cell's signaling mechanisms that recognize these cues and initiate an intracellular set of events that generates a response.
MCDB 224.
Signal Transduction and Development in Multicellular Systems
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Cellular and organismal growth and other responses are controlled by positive and negative cues from both internal and external sources. We discuss the signaling mechanisms that recognize these cues and initiate an intracellular set of events that generates a response. We also discuss the molecular mechanisms of pattern formation and cellular differentiation that underlie developmental processes in a variety of important multicellular model systems.
MCDB 225.
Development
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring.
The molecular mechanisms of pattern formation and cellular differentiation that underlie developmental processes in a variety of important model systems.
MCDB 226.
Basic Pharmacology
(5)
THROWER
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with MCDB 126. Quarters usually offered: Fall. Graduate students will have separate grading rubrics, with different assignments, and different final assignments.
Repeat Comments: Students who have completed MCDB 226A will only receive 2 units for MCDB 226. Students who have completed MCDB 226C will only receive 3 units for MCDB 226. Not open for credit to students who have completed both MCDB 226A and 226C.
Will cover a wide range of drugs with a focus on drugs used to treat disorders of the nervous and cardiovascular systems, antibacterial agents, antivirals, and anticancer drugs. Will will also look at the pharmacology of inflammation and coagulation. The goal is to understand the underlying physiology behind disorders of these systems and the mechanisms of the drugs used to treat them. Additional out-of-class hours are necessary.
MCDB 226AL.
Pharmacology Lab I
(4)
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 226A.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 219AL.
Analysis of drug sites and mechanisms of action using isolated tissues, organs, and intact animal preparations.
MCDB 226B.
Basic Pharmacology
(4)
VANDENBERG
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Receptor signalling mechanisms; pharmacology of neurotransmitter and hormone receptors; molecular and cellular mechanisms of drug-receptor interactions.
MCDB 226BL.
Pharmacology Laboratory II
(4)
VANDENBERG, THROWER, STOYAN
Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 226B.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter.
An introduction to molecular and biochemical techniques in pharmacology; drug-receptor binding; receptor isolation; pharmacokinetics; techniques to evaluate potency, concentration and effects of hormones and their receptors.
MCDB 229.
Protein Biochemistry
(2)
WAITE
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Enrollment Comments: Same course as BMSE 229.
Discussion topics relevant to structure-function relationships in proteins including the chemical reactivity of amino acid side chains, posttranslational modifications, and the covalent and noncovalent interactions of multimeric structures. Case studies involve recent advances in structure-function relationships of mechanoproteins.
MCDB 231.
General Microbiology
(4)
COOPER
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A-AL or MCDB 1B-BL or EEMB 2-2L; Chemistry 107A-B and 108, or Chem 130A-B-C, or Chem 109A-B-C.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Introduction to biological properties of microrganisms historical foundations of the field of microbiology; a study of major groups of microorganisms, their structure, physiology, cultivation, and pathogenicity.
MCDB 232.
Bacterial Pathogenesis
(3)
MAHAN
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A-B.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter. MCDB 231 recommended.
The mechanisms by which bacterial pathogens cause disease. Investigation ofthe bacterial gene products produced during infection to understand the metabolic, physiological, and genetic factors that contribute to the virulence of bacterial pathogens.
MCDB 232L.
Bacterial Pathogenesis Laboratory
(3)
MAHAN
Prerequisite: MCDB 232 (may be taken concurrently).
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 228L.
The latest molecular, biochemical, and genetic techniques available for theidentification of microbial gene products that contribute to infection. Study of the regulatory parameters that govern their expression.
MCDB 233.
Molecular and Cellular Immunobiology
(3)
SEARS
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A-B, 108A-B-C or equivalent.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Introduction to, and evaluation of, the current concepts of immunology. Emphasis on immunoglobulin structure and function, cell-cell cooperation in the immune response, and the role of the major histocompatibility complex in regulating immune responsiveness.
MCDB 236.
Cytokine Action and Viral Pathogenesis
(2)
SAMUEL
Prerequisite: Graduate student standing.
Recommended Preparation: 2 quarters of upper division genetics completed when an undergrad.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with MCDB 136H. Quarters usually offered: Winter.
Virology course designed to permit an in-depth consideration of selected aspects of the mechanisms of action of cytokines, with emphasis on the antiviral properties of interferons and their roles in host to viral infection and viral pathogenesis. Under faculty direction, graduate students will read additional primary literature and complete a research paper on a selected topic.
MCDB 245.
Post-Translational Protein Processing
(4)
WAITE
Prerequisite: MCDB 108A or MCDB 218A or Chemistry 142A or equivalent.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring. Same course as BMSE 204 and Chemistry 251.
Structure/function relationships in interesting macromolecules isolated from marine organisms. Focus is on well-characterized pathways from horseshoe crabs, abalones, mussels, and fish as well as others.
MCDB 246.
Stem Cell Biology in Health and Disease
(4)
CLEGG
Enrollment Comments: Graduate Course. Qualified undergraduate students may petition to enroll with instructor approval.
Basic biology of embryonic and adult stem cells and nuclear transfer, with emphasis on latest findings from the current literature.
MCDB 247.
Social Dimensions of Stem Cell Research
(2)
STAFF
Enrollment Comments: Open to non-majors. Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Overview of ethical, social and legal contexts of biological research with special reference to stem cells, embryology and policy.
MCDB 248.
Practical Statistics for Biologists
(4)
MONTELL, MONTELL, KIM
Introduces fundamental concepts in biostatistics such as sources of technical and biological variation, types of statistical tests (ANOVA, non-parametric, linear regression), sampling techniques, power calculations, and how to decide which test is appropriate.
MCDB 249.
Mariculture: Research Frontiers in Farming the Sea
(4)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Enrollment Comments: Same course as EEMB 249. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 249.
Recent progress and new directions in research increasing production of valuable marine animals, plants and microorganisms. Control of reproduction, development, growth and disease in marine species; problems encountered in commercializing production; regional and biological solutions; the role of modern biotechnology.
MCDB 251.
Neurobiology I: Cellular Organization and Biophysics of the Nervous System
(4)
MA, VANDENBERG
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A and 1B or equivalent. Completion of both prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Nervous system properties ranging from single cells to whole organisms, using examples from vertebrates/invertebrates studied in terms of morphology, physiology, behavior.
MCDB 252.
Neurobiology II: Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology
(4)
KOSIK, C. MONTELL
Prerequisite: MCDB 251 with a grade of B or better.
This second course of a three quarter neurobiology course sequence (251/252/253) will cover both top down systems level approaches and bottom up molecular approaches to major topics in neurobiology. These topics include mechanisms of sensory transduction, processing of sensory information within the brain, mechanisms of muscle control, cell signaling, neuronal plasticity, neuronal polarity, and the mapping of neural information to the brain.
MCDB 253.
Neurobiology III: Developmental Neurobiology
(4)
FEINSTEIN
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A-1B; and, MCDB 101A or EEMB 129.
Recommended Preparation: MCDB 112.Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring.
This course begins with fertilization and moves through sequential stages in the development of the nervous system, including cell migration and differentiation, axon outgrowth and pathfinding, programmed cell death, synaptogenesis, learning, memory, neurodegenerative conditions and current strategies for neuronal regeneration.
MCDB 254.
Advanced Topics in Neurobiology
(2)
SIMPSON
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Fall.
Repeat Comments: Course can be repeated for credit to a maximum of 4 times (ie. 5 times total including the initial offering).
Literature-based exploration of core concepts in modern neuroscience. Skill in training in critical reading of primary literature, science writing, and presentation. Content focus changes each year: past topics include Neuroethology, Neuronal Identity, Motor Control, Sensory Motor Integration, Optogenetics and Functional Imaging.
MCDB 260.
Research Strategies in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Winter, Spring, Fall.
Repeat Comments: MCDB PhD graduate students in their 1st and 2nd years will be required to take this course each quarter for a total of 12 units; MCDB Masters student will be required to take this course each quarter in their first year for a total of 6 units. The course can be taken an additional 3 times (6 units) and those units can be applied toward the degree units.
A review and critique of relevant literature in advance of the weekly MCBD Biology research seminar. Includes illustrating the significance, identifying the key findings, evaluating data and conclusions, and proposing further directions and questions. Practice of presentation skills. Weekly meeting with seminar speakers.
MCDB 261.
Literature in Immunology
(1)
SEARS
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Critical reading and presentation of recent literature in immunology.
MCDB 262.
Research Progress in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology
(1)
Research presentations by postdoctoral fellows and advanced Ph.D. students of research progress in the department.
MCDB 263.
Progress in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
(1)
Research seminars presented by invited speakers on current research topics.
MCDB 265.
Literature in Virology
(1)
SAMUEL
Prerequisite: Graduate standing and consent of instructor.
Critical reading and presentation of the recent literature on animal viruses and host cells by graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and staff.
MCDB 266.
Literature in Neurobiology
(1)
VANDENBERG, CLEGG, FEINST., MA
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Critical reading and presentation of the literature in modern neurobiology.
MCDB 268.
Literature in Plant Molecular Biology
(1)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Critical reading and presentation of the current literature in higher plantmolecular biology, cell biology, and development.
MCDB 269.
Pharmacology Colloquia
(1)
WILSON, THROWER
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring.
Research seminars on current research topics in pharmacology presented by invited speakers.
MCDB 270.
Programming in Biology
(4)
KIM
Recommended Preparation: Familiar with genetics, statistics and calculus. Not open to students who have taken MCDB 170.Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with MCDB 170. Quarters usually offered: Winter. Graduate students will have separate grading rubrics, with different homework assignments, and different final assignments.
Studying complex biological systems can be greatly facilitated by modern computing technologies. This course introduces essential computer programming concepts and algorithms to biology major students. Students learn logics of programming and apply it to gene sequence analysis (bioinformatics), simulation of dynamic systems (systems biology), and data analysis (statistics in biology).
MCDB 272.
Biological Dynamics
(4)
WILSON
Enrollment Comments: Concurrently offered with MCDB 172. Quarters usually offered: Fall. Graduate students will have separate grading rubrics, with different homework assignments, and different final assignments.
An introduction to mathematical models and computer simulations used to describe and understand time varying biological systems. Learning Objectives: Survey mathematical methods for describing the dependence on time of biological phenomena. Illustrate how to construct mathematical models to gain insights into complex biological systems. Develop working knowledge of a python code base that enables future evaluation of common classes of models applied to the study of biological dynamics.
MCDB 290AAZZ.
Group Studies
(2)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Presentation and discussion of current research, to be selected from the following list. (see individual letter designations)
MCDB 290A.
Research in Molecular Marine Biology
MCDB 290B.
Research in Biomineralization
MCDB 290C.
Studies in Regualtion of Cell Proliferation
MCDB 290CC.
Centromeres and Chromosomes--Models and Analysis
MCDB 290CE.
C Elegans Development
MCDB 290CS.
Advanced Topics in Chromosome Segregation
MCDB 290DN.
Developmental Neurobiology
MCDB 290ER.
Epithelial Cell Biology and Molecular Renal Pathobiology
MCDB 290JM.
Topics at the Interface of the Physical and Biological Sciences
MCDB 290LW.
Microtubule Dynamics and Functions
MCDB 290M.
Immune Cell Biology and Immunotherapy
MCDB 290MM.
Bacterial Pathogenesis
MCDB 290MR.
Introduction to Microscopy for the Bio-sciences
MCDB 290MW.
Biological Dynamics
MCDB 290NB.
Neurobiology
MCDB 290NC.
Neural Circuits
MCDB 290PM.
Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions
MCDB 290RF.
Group Studies
MCDB 290S.
Molecular Virology and Interferon Action
MCDB 290SF.
Group Studies
MCDB 290SK.
Research in Retinal Cell Biology
MCDB 290V.
Current Research on Cell and Developmental Biology of Fungi
MCDB 290VA.
Molecular Neurobiology: Ion Channels
MCDB 293.
Computational Methods in Biochemistry-Molecular Biology
(1)
CHRISTOFFERSEN
Prerequisite: Graduate standing.
Survey of computational methods in molecular biology. Topics include analysis and presentation of data, database searching, quantitative image analysis, and protein homology modeling. Emphasis on utilizing accessible software tools that are designed for nonprogrammers.
MCDB 294B.
Bioengineering: Career and Development Opportunities at the Interface between Biotechnology and Engineering
(2)
CLEGG
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Spring. Same as BMSE 294B and CH E 294B
Based on presentations by experts from the bioengineering industry. Presenters describe their companies' technologies and developments, including biosensors, therapeutics, tissue engineering, quantum dots and advanced instrumentation. Training and educational requirements for different career tracks are discussed.
MCDB 500.
Teaching Assistant Orientation
(1)
Prerequisite: Required of all teaching assistants.
Enrollment Comments: No unit credit allowed toward advanced degree. May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 500.
General orientation regarding the University of California and the Santa Barbara campus; various pertinent regulations, officials and their functions, staff and functions; services available to teaching assistants and to students. Prospective teaching assistants are encouraged to take this course during the fall quarter prior to their employment.
MCDB 501.
Practicum in Instruction
(1-4)
Prerequisite: Concurrent teaching assistant employment.
Enrollment Comments: No unit credit allowed toward advanced degree. May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 501.
Practical experience in teaching within specified areas of biology. Students will have responsibility for one or more laboratory and/or discussion sections. Staff will periodically observe teaching assistants in actual teaching situations. Evaluation forms will be completed by members of the class sections.
MCDB 502.
Techniques of Teaching and Laboratory Class Supervision
(1-2)
Prerequisite: Concurrent teaching assistant employment.
Enrollment Comments: Required of all teaching assistants. No unit credit allowed toward advanced degree. May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 502.
Weekly discussion and readings on techniques of teaching including lecturing, leading discussions, writing and grading exams, student- teacher interactions, classroom dynamics, and teaching philosophy.
MCDB 503.
Research Practium in Biology
(1-2)
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 503.
Basic procedures and methods of research in a specific area as determined by consultation between the supervising faculty member and the research assistant. Includes weekly meetings and consultations, and formal evaluations.
MCDB 595AAZZ.
MCDB Literature Seminar
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units.
A critical review of research in selected fields of biology. Subject matter for these seminars will be selected from the following list: (refer to individual letter designations.)
MCDB 595BG.
Bacterial Genetics
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: Same course as BMSE 595BG. May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units.
A critical review of research in selected fields of biology.
MCDB 595DS.
Diversity in STEM
MCDB 595DV.
Developmental Biology
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units.
A critical review of research in selected fields of biology.
MCDB 595EO.
Genetics
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units.
A critical review of research in selected fields of biology.
MCDB 595ER.
Discipline-based Education Research in Science
MCDB 595F.
General Physiology
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units.
A critical review of research in selected fields of biology.
MCDB 595KK.
Clinical Research
MCDB 595MO.
Biostatistics
MCDB 595MP.
Microbial Pathogenesis
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units.
A critical review of research in selected fields of biology.
MCDB 595NB.
Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology
MCDB 595NC.
Neural Circuits
MCDB 595RF.
Group Studies
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units.
A critical review of research in selected fields of biology. Subject matter for these seminars will be selected from the following list: (refer to individual letter designations.)
MCDB 595SF.
Group Studies
MCDB 595X.
Cell Biology
(2)
STAFF
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units. Individual letter designations may be repeated for credit to a maximum of 36 units.
A critical review of research in selected fields of biology.
MCDB 596.
Directed Reading and Research
(2-12)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Hours and credit by arrangement with faculty.
MCDB 597.
Individual Study for Master's Comprehensive Examinations and Ph.D. Examinations
(1-12)
Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: No unit credit allowed toward advanced degree. Students are limited to 24 units per examination, and 12 units per quarter. May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 597.
Individual study for M.A. comprehensive examinations and Ph.D. examinations.
MCDB 598.
Master's Thesis Research and Preparation
(1-12)
Prerequisite: M.A. (thesis) candidate and consent of committee chair.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 598 to a maximum 12 units. No unit credit is allowed toward advanced degree.
For research underlying the thesis and writing of the thesis.
MCDB 599.
Ph.D. Dissertation Preparation
(1-12)
Prerequisite: Ph.D. candidate and consent of instructor.
Enrollment Comments: May be repeated for credit in combination with Biology 599 to a maximum of 12 units.
For writing of the dissertation.
Upper Division
MCDB W 108A.
Biochemistry - Structure and Function of Macromolecules
(4)
SEARS
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B; and Chemistry 1A-B-C; and Chemistry 109A-B- C (Chem 109C may be taken concurrently). Completion of all listed prerequisites with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Summer. Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 108A or MCDB 108A. Reduced credit of 2.0 units for those who have completed MCDB 110. Concurrent enrollment in MCDB 110 not allowed.
Repeat Comments: Students needing to repeat MCDB W 108A due to a poor grade the first time, can repeat it either as MCDB 108A or MCDB W 108A. Only one repeat attempt between the 2 courses is allowed.
Introduction to the structures and functions of proteins, including enzymes, with emphasis on their basic architecture and biological mechanisms of action and regulation. Methods used for characterizing proteins and analyzing enzyme kinetic data are also emphasized.
MCDB W 111.
Human Physiology
(4)
THROWER
Prerequisite: MCDB 1A, and EEMB 2 and MCDB 1B with a grade of C or better.
Enrollment Comments: Not open for credit to students who have completed Biology 100. MCDB W 111 is the online version of MCDB 111.
Fundamentals of human physiology at the molecular, cellular and organismal levels. Emphasis on homeostatic mechanisms regulating intercellular communication, muscle function, circulation, metabolism and body fluid balance/composition.
MCDB W 138.
Medical Immunology
(4)
SEARS
Prerequisite: MCDB 101A OR EEMB 129 with a grade of C or better.
Recommended Preparation: Prior completion of MCDB 101B and MCDB 133 with grades of C or better are recommended.Enrollment Comments: Quarters usually offered: Summer. Not open for credit to students who have completed MCDB 138.
Repeat Comments: Students needing to repeat MCDB W 138 or MCDB 138 due to a poor grade the first time, can repeat it either as MCDB 138 or MCDB W 138. Only one repeat attempt between the 2 courses is allowed.
By focusing on recent groundbreaking advances in our understanding of the vertebrate immune system, this course explores the contrasting mechanisms of protective immunity against parasites and cancer with various immune disorders that mainly stem from immune dysregulation, such as autoimmunity, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), allergies, and other diseases. By engaging in interactive, case-based computer exercises, students will have an opportunity to emulate the discovery of the underlying biological defects that give rise to these and other immune-related diseases.