BIOL 3240K: Cell Biology (FALL 2025) – Syllabus and Course Structure

Course Overview

This document outlines the syllabus for BIOL 3240K: Cell Biology, a college-level course focused on the structure and function of cells, with an emphasis on eukaryotic cells. The course covers fundamental concepts, experimental methods, and applications relevant to cell biology.

Course Description

• Cell Biology is the study of the cell as a dynamic, functional unit of life, encompassing both unicellular and multicellular organisms.

• The course aims to help students understand cellular structure, function, and the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular processes.

• Students will engage in experimental methods and data analysis to reinforce theoretical concepts.

Prerequisites

• Completion of BIOL 1107K with a grade of C or higher, or equivalent courses (BIOL 1108K, CHEM 1211/1211L).

Course Topics and Structure

The course is organized into lectures and laboratory sessions, each focusing on key aspects of cell biology. Below is a structured summary of the main topics and subtopics as outlined in the syllabus and course schedule.

1. Introduction to Cell Biology

• Definition: Cell biology is the branch of biology that studies the structure, function, and behavior of cells.

• Importance: Understanding cells is fundamental to all biological sciences, as cells are the basic units of life.

• Applications: Cell biology informs research in medicine, genetics, biotechnology, and developmental biology.

2. The Chemistry of the Cell

• Key Concepts: Chemical composition of cells, macromolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, carbohydrates), and their roles in cellular processes.

• Example: The structure and function of DNA and proteins in genetic information storage and expression.

3. Macromolecules of the Cell

• Macromolecules: Large, complex molecules essential for life, including proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.

• Functions: Structural support, catalysis (enzymes), information storage, and energy storage.

4. Membranes and Membrane Transport

• Structure: Biological membranes are composed of lipid bilayers with embedded proteins.

• Transport Mechanisms: Passive transport (diffusion, osmosis), active transport (pumps, carriers), and vesicular transport (endocytosis, exocytosis).

• Equation (Osmosis):

$\Pi = iMRT$

• Where $\Pi$ is osmotic pressure, $i$ is the van 't Hoff factor, $M$ is molarity, $R$ is the gas constant, and $T$ is temperature.

5. Energy, Enzymes, and Metabolism

• Cellular Respiration: The process by which cells convert biochemical energy from nutrients into ATP.

• Photosynthesis: The process by which plants and some organisms convert light energy into chemical energy.

• Enzymes: Biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions by lowering activation energy.

• Equation (Gibbs Free Energy):

$\Delta G = \Delta H - T\Delta S$

• Where $\Delta G$ is the change in free energy, $\Delta H$ is the change in enthalpy, $T$ is temperature, and $\Delta S$ is the change in entropy.

6. The Cytoskeleton and Cell Movement

• Cytoskeleton: A network of protein filaments (microtubules, microfilaments, intermediate filaments) that provide structural support and facilitate cell movement.

• Cell Motility: Movement of cells and intracellular components, including muscle contraction and vesicle transport.

7. Cell Communication and Signal Transduction

• Cell Signaling: The process by which cells detect and respond to external signals via receptors and signaling pathways.

• Signal Transduction: The cascade of molecular events that transmits a signal from a receptor to a cellular response.

• Example: Hormone binding to a cell surface receptor triggering a second messenger pathway.

8. Cell Cycle, Cell Division, and Programmed Cell Death

• Cell Cycle: The ordered sequence of events that leads to cell division and replication (phases: G1, S, G2, M).

• Mitosis and Meiosis: Processes of nuclear division in eukaryotic cells.

• Programmed Cell Death (Apoptosis): A regulated process leading to the elimination of cells without releasing harmful substances.

9. Experimental Methods in Cell Biology

• Microscopy: Techniques such as light microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and electron microscopy for visualizing cells and subcellular structures.

• Biochemical Methods: Techniques for isolating and analyzing cellular components (e.g., centrifugation, electrophoresis).

• Data Analysis: Interpretation of experimental results and application of the scientific method.

Course Assessment and Grading

• Assessment Components: Homework, lab practicals, final exam, quizzes, and laboratory work.

• Grading Scale: A: 90-100%, B: 80-89%, C: 70-79%, D: 60-69%, F: below 60%.

• Weighting: Lecture (60%), Laboratory (40%).

Sample Grading Table

Component	Points
Lecture homework	100 (10 x 10)
Lab practical exams	200 (2 x 100)
Final exam	100
Quizzes	100 (10 x 10)
Laboratory work	200 (10 x 20)
Total	700

Course Policies

• Attendance: Required for both lectures and labs. Absences must be excused according to university policy.

• Academic Integrity: Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited and may result in a zero grade or further disciplinary action.

• Make-up Policy: Make-up labs and exams are only permitted with proper documentation and approval.

Course Schedule (Selected Topics)

Date	Lecture Topic	Laboratory Topic
8/12	Introduction to course	No Lab
8/19	The Chemistry of the Cell	Lab 1: Light Microscopy
8/26	Macromolecules of the Cell	Lab 2: Spectrophotometry and Enzyme Kinetics
9/2	Membranes I	Lab 3: Enzyme Kinetics
9/9	Membranes II	Lab 4: Osmosis
9/16	Transport across the membranes I	Lab 5: Urea
10/7	The Endomembrane System	Lab 7: Tetrahymena (Part I)
10/14	The Cytoskeletal System I	Lab 7: Tetrahymena (Part II)
10/28	Cellular Movement	Lab 9: Immunofluorescence Microscopy (Part I)
11/4	Cell Adhesions, Cell Junctions, and Extracellular Structures	Lab 10: Immunofluorescence Microscopy (Part II)
11/18	Signal Transduction I	Practical Exam 2

Required Materials

• Textbook: Hardin and Bertoni, Becker's World of the Cell, 10th ed., Pearson, 2021.

• Lab Manual: Downloadable from D2L.

• Software: Mastering Biology (MB) for homework and assignments.

Additional Information

• Students are expected to adhere to all university policies regarding academic integrity, attendance, and accommodations.

• Assignments must be submitted on time; late submissions are penalized.

• Refer to the course D2L site for updates, resources, and detailed instructions.