Biophysics in Applications

Catalog description

An introduction to protein structure and molecular interactions needed for analysis of individual proteins. Focus on proteins that highlight important biophysical properties. Project-based course emphasizing reading and interpretation of the original literature. The groups of protein chosen can be biological machines, including ribosomes and protein synthesis; actin/myosin and muscle motion; kinesin/dynesin, transport, and cellular motion and deformation; and bacterial flagellar action. Alternatively the class can study processes based on transmembrane potential gradients including respiration, photosynthesis and chemiosmotic energy coupling as well as nerve function. Prerequisite: 1 yr. of Math, 1 yr. of Physics (Cell biology or biochemistry is recommended.)