COURSE DESCRIPTION - Open to all students, this course explores the basic nature of cancer from its ancient historical evolution to its distribution throughout the modern world. By examining current immunocytochemical, molecular genetic and biochemical research on the many diseases of cancer, the student can gain a better understanding of the behavior and activities of both normal and cancerous cells.  Recent research on the many causes of cancer gives us new ideas for prevention and treatment methods.  In addition, this course leaves the student with the scientific basis for personal life style, nutritional and environmental choices to minimize the risk of cancer during their lifetime.

PREREQUISITES - None.

OBJECTIVE: to understand the structure and behavior of cancer cells, to explore the prevention and treatment methods for the many forms of cancer, and to establish the basis for intelligent lifestyle choices.

REQUIRED TEXT: PRINCIPLES OF CANCER BIOLOGY, Lewis J. Kleinsmith, Benjamin Cummings, 2006 (A. Bettica, reviewer).

READINGS: Chapters from the assigned text MUST be read before the scheduled classes. Supplementary readings or assignments will be posted on Blackboard.

STUDENT EVALUATIONS:

75% - WRITTEN EXAMINATIONS

EXAM I - Nature and Causes of Cancer
EXAM II - Cellular/Molecular Basis + 15% of Exam I
EXAM III - Cancer Prevention/Therapy + 10% of Exam I + 10% of Exam II

10% - SHORT PAPER ON CANCER TOPIC OF YOUR CHOICE

(Topic title to be submitted no later than 3/02/06)

15% - CLASS ASSIGNMENTS (WEB PAGE) AND PARTICIPATION (includes attendance)

 

(fibroadenoma)

*** NO MAKEUP EXAMS WILL BE GIVEN

CHAPTER

TOPICS

DATES

1/19/06-1/23/06

3/20/06-3/23/06

4/27/06