Cancer is the second-leading cause of death worldwide. In spite of focused research efforts, cancer still poses a unique biomedical puzzle as it is now recognized that cancer is not a single disease, but rather a collection of many disorders with underlying mechanistic complexities that can affect most tissues in the human body. This course provides an introductory overview of the human cell and the biology underlying the development of cancers. The course will cover background topics in DNA structure and replication, gene regulation and transcription, protein synthesis, mutations, DNA repair, and then move on to the genetic and molecular changes that normal cells undergo during transformation into malignant cancer cells, emphasizing the dysfunction of essential biological processes (ex: cell proliferation). The course is a mix of lectures and student activities. Midterm Exams, which attendance is required, will be administered on Friday, June 28, and Monday, July 8. The final exam will take place on Friday, July 19.
Prerequisite: High school biology and chemistry, while completing AP or Honors biology is recommended. Not available to students who have been selected for the "Hallmarks of Cancer & Patient Care" Ampersand program.
Course Attributes: AS NSM
