Cell Biology

Basic understanding of cell biology is essential for anyone pursuing a career in the life sciences or related disciplines. Understanding fundamental cellular processes such as the cell cycle, cell division, cell signaling, DNA replication, recombination, repair, autophagy, cell death, and ageing is critical for appreciating the molecular differences between normal physiology and disease. We all know that our DNA carries the genetic code, but few realize how approximately 2.2 meters of DNA is compactly organized within a nucleus that is only about 10–15 μm in diameter. How is DNA packaged without compromising its accessibility? How do DNA replication, transcription, and repair occur within such a confined space? How is the entire genome faithfully duplicated within a limited time during every cell cycle? How do multiple repair pathways cooperate to correct replication-associated errors? Why do defects in these pathways lead to developmental disorders, premature ageing, or cancer? Addressing these questions provides a molecular understanding of how cells preserve genome integrity while maintaining normal cellular function. This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of cell biology and examines how diverse cellular pathways work in concert to maintain homeostasis. It also highlights how disruption of these processes contributes to human disease, providing a foundation for advanced studies in molecular biology, biotechnology, biomedical engineering, and medicine.

In this semester-long Cell Biology course, the primary objective is to introduce students to the fundamental principles of cellular and molecular biology and develop a conceptual understanding of these complex biological processes through illustrative examples and case studies. A key component of the course is a Journal Club, where students will critically discuss landmark discoveries that have shaped modern cell biology. These sessions are designed to cultivate the habit of reading primary research literature, encourage scientific discussion, and develop the ability to critically evaluate experimental evidence. Learning how to efficiently read and interpret research papers is an essential skill that will serve students well in future research careers and higher education.

The course also includes a weekly four-hour laboratory component that provides hands-on training in core molecular biology and biochemistry techniques, including preparation of competent cells, bacterial transformation, plasmid isolation, site-directed mutagenesis, recombinant protein expression, protein purification, and in vitro biochemical assays. By integrating theoretical concepts with experimental practice, the laboratory sessions are designed to strengthen students' technical proficiency, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills while providing early exposure to research methodologies commonly used in modern biological sciences.

• Engage in a series of lab activities related to plasmid isolation and protein purification | Know/Knowledge Outcome
• Explore the broad spectrum of concepts associated with cell cycle and signaling in cells | Comprehend Outcome
• Demonstrate scientific temperament in conducting experiments in labs using the method of science| Apply Outcome
• Conduct an appropriate investigation of proteins using protein purification methods | Apply Outcome
• Evaluate the empirical and historical significance of biological research in the field of Cancer research | Evaluate Outcome
• Construct a knowledge base that is broad and covers a wide variety of topics| Create/synthesize Outcome
• Articulate the core of journal articles and be able to present thorough analysis of data and research methodology | Synthesize Outcome

Molecular Biology of the Cell by Bruce Alberts

Journal Club Articles

• Nature (1998) | PMID: 9486653 | DOI: 10.1038/35888
• Nature (1998) | PMID: 9759731 | DOI: 10.1038/26506
• Nature (2005) | PMID: 15829967 | DOI: 10.1038/nature03445
• Cell (2006) | PMID: 16904174 | DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2006.07.024
• Cell (2003) | PMID: 12600310 | DOI: 10.1016/S0092-8674(03)00120-X
• Nature (2010) | PMID: 20376150 | DOI: 10.1038/nature08937
• Science (2012) | PMID: 22745249 | DOI: 10.1126/science.1225829
• The Lancet (1984) | PMID: 6145023 | DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(84)91816-6
• Science (2026) | PMID: 42024763 | DOI: 10.1126/science.ads9412
• Science (2009) | PMID: 19460965 | DOI: 10.1126/science.1172046

Landmark research papers discussed through Journal Club presentations will form an integral part of the course. Students are expected to read and critically analyze these papers as part of scholarly discussions.