It is now recognized that cancer is not a single disease, but a collection of disorders with many manifestations that affect every tissue in the human body representing a challenging biomedical puzzle. The techniques of molecular biology have enabled researchers to uncover the normal mechanisms of cellular proliferation, growth, and differentiation enabling exquisite insight into the abnormal processes that occur during cellular transformation and progression to the cancerous phenotype. We will explore the challenges associated with treating cancer and the promise of new scientific techniques to unravel the mysteries of this disease. We will cover topics relating to the genetics of cancer, epigenetic control of gene expression, cancer stem cells, microanatomy of normal tissue and tumors, tumor immunology, and therapeutic resistance.
This course will employ traditional lectures with a focus on active learning, small group discussion,s and laboratory exercises. You can expect to spend approximately 1.5 hours per class in the laboratory learning techniques used in the diagnosis, molecular characterization, and treatment of human cancer. The course will also feature guest speakers with various careers related to cancer research.
At the end of the course, you will be able to:
• Compare and contrast normal and cancer cell growth
• Critically read scientific literature
• Perform common laboratory techniques used in cancer research
Cancer Biology is an interdisciplinary field that encompasses physiology, cell biology, molecular biology, and epidemiology. You will exit the course with a basic foundation in all these areas plus hands-on experience in the laboratory. You will also be introduced to different career paths in research and medicine through guest lectures.
On-Campus Supplemental Fee: $250
Completion of a high school biology course is required.
Online sections of Pre-College courses are offered in one of the following modalities: Asynchronous, Mostly asynchronous, or Blended. Please review full information regarding the experience here.