BIOL 418(S) The Biology of Aging
Aging is a fundamental biological process that is driven by highly conserved pathways involved in metabolism and reproduction.  Yet, there is enormous diversity in how long different organisms live, and in the details of the mechanisms involved.  There is also much debate as to the relative roles played by environmental impacts and genetic programming in aging.  In this discussion-based course, we will examine models and mechanisms that are involved in the process of aging including calorie restriction, genetic damage, oxidative damage, metabolic pathways, and the role of telomerase.  We will also examine the interconnections between aging and disease, stem cell research, and cancer.  Class discussions will focus on readings from the primary literature.
Format: discussion, three hours per week.  Evaluation will be based on class participation and several short papers.
Prerequisites:  Biology 202. Enrollment limit: 2 sections of 12 per section (expected: 12 per section). Open to juniors and seniors, with preference given to senior Biology majors who have not taken a 400-level course.
Hour: ROSEMAN