BIOMG 4320

Survey of Cell Biology

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

Survey of a wide array of topics focusing on the general properties of eukaryotic cells. Topics include methods used for studying cells, the structure and function of the major cellular organelles, and analyses of cellular processes such as mitosis, endocytosis, cell motility, secretion, cell-to-cell communication, gene expression, and oncogenesis. Some of the material is covered in greater depth in BIOMG 4370, BIOMG 4380, BIOMG 6360, and BIOMG 6390.

Prerequisites BIOMG 3300 or BIOMG 3330 or BIOMG 3350 or BIOMG 3310.

Corequisites or prerequisites: BIOMG 3320 or equivalent.

Distribution Requirements (OPHLS-AG), (BIO-AS)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2026SP, 2025SP, 2024SP, 2023SP

Learning Outcomes

• Describe the molecular function and make-up of the major organelles and structures in a eukaryotic cell, including the nucleus, the cytoskeleton, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi, trafficking vesicles, lysozymes, mitochondria, membranes, and chromatin.
• Explain the dynamic processes that underlie vesicular trafficking, endocytosis, the expression of genes, and inter- and intra-molecular signaling; Identify key molecular players in each process.
• Name the methods used to study the above structures and processes, including molecular biology and molecular genetics, transfection of living cells, fluorescence and electron microscopy, subcellular fractionation, and detection of specific proteins using antibodies and green fluorescent protein fusions; Explain the principle of each method; Interpret results of experiments utilizing these methods.
• Explain the experimental underpinnings of the current models for processes common to all eukaryotic cells.

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