Time Schedule:
Margaret M. Madeleine
EPI 540
Seattle Campus
Provides a general understanding of cancer biology, covering the carcinogenic process and various biological causes of cancer. Integrates knowledge from different fields of cancer research, guiding students through diverse literature on cancer and carcinogenesis. Prerequisite: undergraduate biology coursework or permission of instructor. Offered: Sp, even years.
Class description
This course will draw from multiple disciplines to provide a general understanding of cancer biology. Instruction will cover various aspects of the mechanisms of carcinogenesis of a variety of cancers. During this course we will read important papers that have shaped our current understanding of cancer biology and hear lectures from experts in the field.
Student learning goals
To gain a basic understanding of the differences between normal and cancerous cells, and the progression from a normal cell to a cancerous cell.
To understand fundamental principles about the mechanisms that underlie carcinogenesis of several different cancers (e.g., DNA repair defects, activation of proto-oncogenes, inherited mutations)
To understand the mechanisms of representative pathogen-induced as well as environmentally initiated cancers
To understand the clinical terminology and diagnosis of cancer and have a basic understanding of cancer treatments.
General method of instruction
Lecture and discussion sessions
Recommended preparation
Genome 372, equivalent, or permission of instructor
Class assignments and grading
Students are expected to complete readings prior to class and turn in written answers to questions regarding the relevant readings. The final project will require you to prepare a report on a topic of interest to you, and at the last class session, there will be a presentation of final projects.
The course grading will be based on answers to questions about the readings for the sessions (25%), class participation (25%), and a final paper and presentation (50%).
