Entry requirements

At least two years of basic courses in Natural Sciences, equivalent to 50 Swedish points/75 ECTS credits in Biology and 20 Swedish points/30 ECTS credits in Chemistry. Biology courses should include Cell Biology, Genetics and Gene Technology, the Evolution and Diversity of Organisms, Physiology and Ecology. Alternatively, one year of Chemistry, of which 10 Swedish points/15 ECTS credits shall be in Biochemistry, together with 20 Swedish points/30 ECTS credits in Biology including the Evolution and Diversity of Organisms, Physiology and Genetics and Gene Technology.

Aims

The student should gain a deeper understanding of molecular cell biology with special emphasis of signal/response relationships in different cell types. The course will give training in reading and presenting scientific publications and problem-solving in areas covered by the course. The course should provide a foundation for further studies in biology.

Content

Pro- and eukaryotic cells, with emphasis on the latter. Information from the extracellular environment including soluble molecules, cell-cell contacts and contacts with the extracellular matrix. Structure and function of receptors involved in mediating these signals, including tyrosine kinase receptors, G-protein coupled receptors, cadherins, and integrins. Signal processing: second messenger and intracellular signalling. DNA replication and cell cycle control in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. Gene expression and protein targeting. Cytoskeleton and motorproteins. The nerve synapse. Modern methods in fluorescence microscopy. A special emphasis is placed on the structure of the molecules involved in the processes discussed.

Instruction

The course includes lectures, seminars and laboratory work. Participation in the laboratory work and seminars is mandatory. The course may be taught in English

Assessment

There are exams during the course and at its conclusion. A passing grade for the entire course requires passing grades for laboratory and seminar work.