Credit Hours - 3

The course on Molecular Biology Tools and Techniques encompasses a comprehensive exploration of essential methodologies and applications. Key topics include agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis for DNA and protein separation; Northern and Southern blots for RNA and DNA hybridization analysis, respectively; and Western blots for protein detection. The course delves into the principles of PCR, RAPD, and RFLP for nucleic acid amplification and polymorphism analysis. It covers the purification and characterization of nucleic acids, including extraction techniques, concentration and molecular weight determination, and differentiation of RNA/DNA and single/double-stranded nucleic acids. Modifying enzymes such as restriction endonucleases, DNAse, RNAse, ligases, and polymerases are thoroughly examined. Recombinant DNA technology is a focal point, discussing cloning and expression vectors, creation of recombinant molecules, and transformation systems in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic hosts. Techniques for colony screening, plasmid isolation, and characterization, as well as transduction and conjugation, are included. The course also covers nucleotide sequencing via Maxam-Gilbert chemical cleavage and Sanger’s enzymatic synthesis, along with deletion and insertion mutagenesis. Gene expression detection methods, including RT-PCR, real-time RT-PCR, and microarrays, are explained. The practical applications of these techniques in medicine, agriculture, and industry are highlighted, showcasing their relevance and impact in various fields

Credit Hours - 2

The course on Cellular Regulation and Signaling explores various types of cellular regulation, including endocrine, paracrine, autocrine, and direct cell-to-cell communication. Primary signaling molecules such as growth factors, hormones, and neurotransmitters are examined. The structure and properties of receptors are discussed, covering cell surface and intracellular receptors, G-protein coupled receptors, and receptor tyrosine kinases. Key concepts such as conserved domains, ligand recognition, binding characteristics, receptor dimerization, phosphorylation, docking sites, and substrate interactions are thoroughly explained.

The course investigates guanine nucleotide binding-protein switches, focusing on both heterotrimeric and monomeric forms, and delves into G-protein regulators like GTPase-activating proteins and guanine nucleotide exchange factors, exemplified by Son of Sevenless and neurofibromin. The generation of second messengers, including cyclic AMP, cyclic GMP, inositol trisphosphate, diacylglycerol, and Ca2+, is explored.

Major signaling cascades are highlighted, including the Ras-mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway, phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase and Akt pathway, Janus kinase and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription pathway (JAK-STAT), and nitric oxide-guanylyl cyclase signaling. The course covers the roles of effectors and transcription factors, mechanisms of signal amplification, signal diversity, cross-talk between pathways, and signal termination.

Credit Hours - 2

The course on Tropical Parasitic Diseases delves into . The course examines the intricate biochemistry  and the pathophysiology of major tropical parasitic diseases, including malaria, trypanosomiasis, filariasis, schistosomiasis, and gastrointestinal worm infestations, emphasizing the complex host-parasite interrelationships. Key topics include the molecular basis of the parasites' life cycles, their survival strategies within the host, and the host's immune response.

The course highlights the molecular mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of these diseases. For malaria, the focus is on Plasmodium species' lifecycle and its interaction with red blood cells. In trypanosomiasis, the emphasis is on the antigenic variation of Trypanosoma species and their evasion of the host immune system. Filariasis is explored through the lens of filarial worms' lifecycle and their impact on the lymphatic system. Schistosomiasis discussions center on Schistosoma species and their unique life cycle involving snail intermediate hosts and human definitive hosts. Gastrointestinal worm infestations cover a range of helminths and their mechanisms for nutrient absorption and immune evasion.

A significant portion of the course is dedicated to the molecular basis of chemotherapeutic attacks on parasites, exploring how drugs target specific biochemical pathways of the parasites. The course examines various classes of antiparasitic drugs, their mechanisms of action, and the challenges of drug resistance. This comprehensive study equips students with a deep understanding of tropical parasitic diseases, their biochemical underpinnings, and current strategies for treatment and control.

Credit Hours - 1

The course on Scientific Writing and Communication encompasses a detailed review of language structure and usage, essential for effective scientific communication. It explores the different types of scientific reports, including seminars, research papers, proposals, and posters, providing a comprehensive understanding of their unique formats and purposes.

The structure of scientific reports is thoroughly examined, covering all critical components: the title, authors, abstract/summary, table of contents, and glossary. The course delves into the essential sections of a scientific report, such as the introduction (context, focus, justification), materials and methods, results, discussion, conclusion, references, and appendices.

Emphasis is placed on writing style and rules, highlighting important dos and don'ts to maintain clarity and precision in scientific writing. The course addresses the critical issue of plagiarism, teaching students how to avoid it and maintain academic integrity.

Additionally, students are required to attend all departmental seminars, presented by either internal or external speakers. They must actively participate in journal clubs by presenting journal articles, and they are also expected to present their research proposals and project seminars. This hands-on approach ensures that students gain practical experience in scientific communication and presentation, preparing them for professional scientific discourse.

Credit Hours - 3

The course on Immunology covers the essential aspects of the immune system and its role in health and disease. Key topics include:

1. Defense Systems: Understanding the concepts of self and non-self, and distinguishing between innate and acquired immunity. The course covers the cells and organs involved in these immune responses, as well as the mechanisms of humoral and cell-mediated immunity.
2. Antigens: Delving into the concepts of immunogenicity and antigenicity, the course explores the chemical nature of antigens, including bacterial, viral, and synthetic antigens.
3. Antibodies: Focusing on the structure and function of immunoglobulins, the course discusses various theories of antibody production. It also covers the methods for producing polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies, with an emphasis on hybridoma technology.
4. Antigen-Antibody Interactions: The course explains the mechanisms of agglutination and precipitation, as well as various immunoassays used to detect these interactions.
5. The Complement System: Students learn about the components and activation of the complement system via classical and alternative pathways, and how these processes are regulated.
6. Vaccines: Current methods for vaccine development are explored, along with immune regulation and tolerance. The course also covers immunopathology, including hypersensitivity, immunodeficiency, and autoimmunity, as well as transplantation immunology and the mechanisms involved in tissue rejection.
7. Cytokines: General properties and biological activities of selected cytokines are examined, highlighting their role in immune responses.
8. Immunology of Diseases of Public Health Interest: The course addresses the immunological aspects of significant diseases such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and schistosomiasis, focusing on their impact on public health and the immune system's response to these diseases.

This comprehensive curriculum equips students with a thorough understanding of immunology, preparing them to address complex immunological challenges in health and disease contexts.

Credit Hours - 2

This course provides hands-on experience with advanced molecular biotechnology techniques, focusing on their applications in biochemistry and related fields. Students will gain practical skills in various methods used to manipulate and analyze nucleic acids and proteins, alongside proficiency in bioinformatics tools for in silico design and analysis.

Key Topics and Techniques:

1. Agarose and Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis:
   • Agarose Gel Electrophoresis: Techniques for separating and analyzing DNA fragments.
   • Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (PAGE): Methods for separating and analyzing proteins and small DNA fragments.
2. Blotting and Hybridization Techniques:
   • Southern Blotting: Procedures for detecting specific DNA sequences.
   • Northern Blotting: Techniques for detecting specific RNA sequences.
   • Western Blotting: Methods for detecting and analyzing specific proteins.
3. PCR and Related Techniques:
   • Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): Protocols for amplifying DNA sequences.
   • Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD): Methods for analyzing genetic diversity.
   • Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP): Techniques for genetic mapping and polymorphism analysis.
4. Nucleic Acid Purification and Characterization:
   • Extraction and Purification: Techniques for isolating DNA and RNA from various sources.
   • Concentration and Molecular Weight Determination: Methods for quantifying and estimating the size of nucleic acids.
   • Species Differentiation: Techniques for differentiating RNA/DNA and single/double-stranded nucleic acids.
5. Bioinformatics and In Silico Design:
   • Identification of Fungi: Using bioinformatics tools for fungal identification and classification.
   • Cloning Design: Utilizing in silico design tools such as SoftBerry, SMART, Clustal Omega, NEB Cutter, and NEB Cloner for designing cloning experiments.
   • Sequence Analysis: Application of bioinformatics tools for sequence alignment, gene prediction, and analysis.

Course Requirements:

• Attendance: Mandatory participation in all lab sessions.
• Lab Reports: Detailed documentation of experimental procedures, results, and analyses.

Credit Hours - 2

This course provides an in-depth introduction to practical clinical biochemistry, emphasizing laboratory investigations and specimen collection. Students will learn about the principles and application of analytical methods and standardization techniques, including calibration standards, precision, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. The curriculum covers a comprehensive review of analytical and separation methods used in clinical biochemistry for detecting and quantifying metabolites, ions, and enzymes. Essential skills such as report writing and result interpretation will be developed, with a focus on understanding reference values and the factors influencing them.

The course also delves into organ function disorders and their diagnostic tests, including those for the gastrointestinal system, liver, kidneys, heart, pituitary gland, pancreas, thyroid, adrenal glands, and gonads. Additionally, students will study the composition and abnormalities of body fluids, including water and electrolyte balance, acid-base disorders, and oxygen transport.

An exploration of disorders of metabolism, particularly inborn errors of metabolism, will cover lipids, carbohydrates, amino acids, proteins, purines, and porphyrins. 

Credit Hours - 2

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of xenobiotic metabolism, focusing on the pathways, enzymology, and pharmacological and toxicological aspects related to foreign compounds in biological systems. Students will delve into the intricate processes of Phase I and II reactions involved in xenobiotic metabolism.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Pathways of Xenobiotic Metabolism:
   • Detailed examination of Phase I and Phase II reactions involved in the biotransformation of xenobiotics within biological systems.
2. Enzymology and Molecular Mechanisms:
   • Cytochrome P-450-Dependent Mixed-Function Oxidation Reactions: Mechanisms and roles of cytochrome P-450 enzymes in metabolizing xenobiotics.
   • Microsomal Flavin-Containing Monooxygenases: Function and contribution to xenobiotic metabolism.
   • Prostaglandin Synthetase, Reduction Enzymes, Epoxide Hydrolase, and Conjugating Enzymes: Roles of these enzymes in detoxification and activation pathways of xenobiotics.
3. Factors Affecting Xenobiotic Metabolism:
   • Internal Factors: Genetic variability, enzyme induction/inhibition, and age-related changes.
   • External Factors: Environmental exposures, diet, and interactions with other drugs or chemicals.
4. Pharmacological Aspects:
   • Activation and Deactivation: Mechanisms altering the pharmacological response of xenobiotics.
   • Drug Uptake and Distribution: Processes influencing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of xenobiotics.
   • Enterohepatic Circulation: Impact on xenobiotic metabolism and elimination.
5. Toxicological Aspects:
   • Metabolic Activation: Consequences leading to increased toxicity, including carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, teratogenesis, and specific organ toxicities (e.g., pulmonary, hepatic, renal).
   • Deactivation: Mechanisms leading to decreased toxicity and detoxification pathways.
   • Balance Between Toxification and Detoxifying Pathways: Understanding the equilibrium between activating and deactivating processes in xenobiotic metabolism.

This course integrates pharmacological and toxicological perspectives on xenobiotic metabolism, equipping students with essential knowledge to assess the risks and benefits associated with drug metabolism and environmental exposures.

Credit Hours - 2

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Credit Hours - 2

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Credit Hours - 2

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Credit Hours - 6

BCMB 400 is a comprehensive research project that integrates biochemical principles with advanced analytical, cell biology, and molecular biology techniques. This course focuses on the development and execution of original research subjects, culminating in seminars and a thesis. Key aspects include:

Research Scope:

• Selection of Topics: Identifying original research subjects within the field of biochemistry and molecular biology.
• Literature Review: Conducting a thorough review of relevant literature to establish the background and rationale for the research project.

Experimental Design and Execution:

• Planning: Developing experimental methodologies and strategies.
• Execution: Performing laboratory work using biochemical and molecular techniques, as well as cell biology assays as required by the research question.

Data Analysis and Interpretation:

• Analytical Techniques: Utilizing advanced analytical methods for data collection.
• Interpretation: Analyzing and interpreting experimental results to draw meaningful conclusions.

Communication Skills:

• Seminars: Presenting research findings in seminars to peers and faculty.
• Thesis: Writing a comprehensive thesis that documents the research objectives, methodologies, results, and conclusions.

Credit Hours - 2

BCMB 408 focuses on the principles of entrepreneurship as applied to innovations in biosciences. The course covers fundamental aspects such as the nature and significance of entrepreneurship, with a specific emphasis on technology-based ventures in the biosciences sector. Topics include the characteristics of successful businesses driven by technology, assessment of technical and alternative risks, and the entrepreneurial decision-making process.

The course also explores creativity in generating business ideas, planning and developing products, and identifying resource needs. Alternative financing models and the importance of intellectual property protection, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights, are discussed in depth.

In the context of biosciences, the course examines innovations in medicine (including diagnostics and therapeutics), food and agriculture (focusing on quality, safety, efficiency of production, and processing), environmental applications (such as remediation, conservation, and restoration), and the development of value-added natural products.

Students engage with practical aspects of preparing for venture launch and managing growth and expansion in the biosciences sector, preparing them for entrepreneurial roles and innovation-driven careers within the field.

Credit Hours - 2

BCMB 412 provides a comprehensive exploration of molecular genetics, encompassing foundational concepts, chromatin and chromosome dynamics, genomics, genome maintenance, gene regulation in eukaryotes, and genetic manipulation in bacteria. Key topics include:

Genetic Foundations:

• Mendelian and Non-Mendelian Inheritance: Principles of inheritance and deviations from Mendelian genetics.
• Horizontal Gene Transfer: Mechanisms including transformation, transduction, and conjugation in bacteria.
• Recombination and Complementation: Genetic processes influencing variation and functional complementation.
• Mutational Analysis: Study of genetic mutations and their effects.
• Genetic Mapping and Linkage Analysis: Methods to map genes and analyze their linkage relationships.

Chromatin and Chromosomes:

• Karyotypes: Chromosomal arrangements and variations.
• Structural Aberrations: Translocations, inversions, deletions, and duplications impacting chromosome structure.
• Aneuploidy and Polyploidy: Abnormal chromosome numbers and their genetic implications.

Genomics:

• Genome Structure: Organization and composition of genomes.
• Physical Mapping: Techniques to map genes and genomic regions.
• Repeated DNA and Gene Families: Analysis of repetitive sequences and gene families.
• Gene Identification: Methods to identify genes within genomes.
• Transposable Elements: Mechanisms and impact of mobile genetic elements.

Genome Maintenance:

• DNA Replication: Processes and mechanisms ensuring accurate DNA duplication.
• DNA Damage and Repair: Cellular responses to DNA damage and repair mechanisms.
• DNA Modification: Epigenetic modifications influencing gene expression.
• DNA Recombination and Gene Conversion: Molecular mechanisms governing genetic exchange.

Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes:

• Cis-Acting Regulatory Elements: Elements influencing gene expression on the same chromosome.
• Trans-Acting Regulatory Factors: Factors controlling gene expression from distant locations.
• Gene Rearrangements and Amplifications: Structural changes affecting gene regulation.
• Large-Scale Genome Analysis: Overview of methodologies and outcomes from projects like the Human Genome Project.

Genetic Manipulation of Bacteria:

• Transposons and Plasmids: Tools for genetic manipulation and molecular cloning in bacteria.

Credit Hours - 2

BCMB 414 covers the intricate biochemical processes underlying plant metabolism, with a focus on nitrogen metabolism, secondary metabolites, photosynthesis, and molecular regulation in response to environmental stimuli. Key topics include:

Nitrogen Metabolism:

• Nitrogen Fixation: Mechanism involving dinitrogenase for converting atmospheric nitrogen into ammonia.
• Nitrogen Uptake and Reduction: Processes by which plants absorb and assimilate nitrogen for growth and development.

Secondary Metabolites:

• Terpenes: Biosynthesis via the mevalonic acid pathway and their roles in plant physiology.
• Phenolic Compounds: Synthesis through the shikimic acid pathway; functions in defense and signaling.
• Other Secondary Metabolites: Saponins, cardiac glycosides, cyanogenic glycosides, glucosinolates, and alkaloids; their biological functions and ecological roles.

Photosynthesis:

• Chloroplast Structure: Organization of chloroplasts for photosynthetic processes.
• Photoreceptors and Light Transduction: Mechanisms for converting light energy into chemical energy.
• Photosynthetic Electron Transport Chain: Flow of electrons through photosystems I and II.
• Carbon Fixation: Calvin cycle (C3), C2 and C4 cycles, and CAM metabolism; adaptations for efficient carbon assimilation under different environmental conditions.

Molecular and Biochemical Regulation:

• Environmental Cues: Responses to abiotic stresses (e.g., drought, temperature extremes) and biotic interactions (pathogens, symbiotic organisms).
• Regulation of Metabolic Pathways: Signaling pathways and gene expression modulation in response to environmental changes.
• Interaction with Pathogens and Symbiotic Organisms: Molecular mechanisms underlying plant defense and symbiotic relationships with microbes.

Credit Hours - 2

BCMB 416 explores the field of bioremediation, focusing on microbial genetics, microbial responses to environmental changes, biochemical cycling of essential elements, molecular mechanisms of biodegradation, and environmental applications. Key topics include:

Bacterial Genetics and Genomics:

• Review of genetic and genomic tools used in studying bacterial diversity and adaptation.

Microbial Diversity and Distribution:

• Exploration of microbial communities in various environmental settings and methods for their detection.

Microbial Responses to Environmental Changes:

• Mechanisms by which microbes respond to physical and chemical environmental stresses.
• Fine and coarse control of microbial responses, including morphological and genotypic changes.

Biochemical Cycling of Elements:

• Processes involving carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, iron, and mercury in microbial ecosystems.

Molecular Mechanisms:

• Biochemical pathways in microbes, including oxygenases and peroxidases involved in biodegradation.
• Microbial dechlorination reactions and their environmental significance.

Biodegradation:

• Breakdown of aromatic, aliphatic, chlorinated, and non-chlorinated hydrocarbons by microbial communities.
• Metabolism of polymers such as cellulose, xylan, and pectin by specialized microbial enzymes.

Environmental Applications:

• Utilization of bioremediation in replacing petroleum products, producing biofuels, and generating industrial bioproducts.

Prevention and Management of Environmental Contamination:

• Application of bioremediation techniques in sewage treatment, bio-leaching, and development of biodegradable materials.

Introduction to Phytoremediation:

• Overview of using plants to mitigate environmental pollution through natural processes.

Credit Hours - 2

BCMB 418 covers the specialized aspects of insect biochemistry and chemical ecology, highlighting the distinctive metabolic processes of insects, the role of hormones in growth and development, insect control strategies, and the intricate interactions between plants, insects, and their environment. Key topics include:

Distinctive Nature of Insect Metabolism:

• Energy Metabolism: Processes involved in energy synthesis, storage, mobilization, transport, and utilization, with a focus on flight metabolism.
• Regulatory Factors: Control mechanisms influencing metabolic activities in insects.

Insect Hormones Affecting Growth and Development:

• Biochemical Activities: Molecular actions of insect hormones in regulating growth, development, and metamorphosis.
• Insect Growth Regulators: Synthetic analogs and natural compounds influencing insect development.

Insect Control:

• Insecticides and Modes of Action: Mechanisms by which insecticides target physiological processes in insects.
• Detoxification Mechanisms: Enzymatic and biochemical pathways used by insects to detoxify xenobiotics.
• Insecticide Resistance: Molecular mechanisms and evolutionary aspects of resistance development.
• Synergists: Compounds enhancing the efficacy of insecticides.
• New Approaches to Insect Control: Innovative strategies integrating biological, chemical, and ecological principles.

Chemical Ecology:

• Plant Adaptation to Environment: Chemical responses of plants to environmental stresses and interactions with insects.
• Chemistry of Pollution: Impact of pollutants on plant-insect interactions and ecosystem dynamics.
• Plant-Insect Interactions: Mechanisms involving insect feeding stimulants, repellents, and plant defense chemistry.
• Animal-Animal Relationships: Communication through pheromones and chemical signaling.
• Plant-Plant and Plant-Microorganism Relationships: Chemical defenses, phytoalexins, and microbial interactions affecting plant health and insect interactions.

Credit Hours - 2

CHEM 374 provides an advanced exploration of analytical chemistry, encompassing classical methods, separation techniques, chromatography principles, spectrophotometry, and quality assurance protocols. Key topics include:

Classical Analytical Chemistry:

• Complexometric Titrations: Titrations involving the formation of complex ions for quantification.
• Non-Aqueous Solvent Titrations: Titration methods using solvents other than water.
• Gravimetric Methods: Techniques for determining the quantity of a substance based on its weight.

Separation Methods:

• Overview of techniques such as chromatography for separating mixtures based on different physical and chemical properties.

Principles of Chromatography:

• Fundamentals of chromatographic separation techniques, including gas chromatography (GC), liquid chromatography (LC), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Spectrophotometry:

• Principles and applications of spectrophotometric techniques for quantitative analysis based on absorption of light by substances.

Sampling and Evaluation of Analytical Data:

• Methods for collecting representative samples and statistical evaluation of analytical results.

Quality Assurance of Analytical Measurements:

• Procedures and protocols to ensure accuracy, precision, and reliability of analytical data.

Credit Hours - 2

To be done...