Course Contents

THEORY 1.Introduction to prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell: Nucleus: Chromatin, heterochromatin, euchromatin, chromosome structure with reference to coiling and nucleosome during different phases of cell cycle, Replication (mechanism, DNA replication in prokaryotes specially with reference to variety of DNA polymerases and other proteins involved, DNA replication in Eukaryotes with special reference to DNA polymerases, concept of Replicons etc.), Transcription (variety of RNA and their characteristics, synthesis of mRNA, rRNA and tRNA with special reference to enzymes, involved, RNA splicing, split genes, concept of Ribozymes and posttranscriptional processing), RNA transduction, Genetic code, point mutations, Translation (with reference to the specific role of Ribosomes, various factors, and posttranslational processing). 2. Cytoplasmic Organelle: Membrane system (structural and functional commonalities). Ultrastructure, chemical composition and functions of Endoplasmic Reticulum with special reference to their role in protein synthesis and drug metabolism), Golgi Apparatus (with reference to its role in synthesis of glycoprotein), Mitochondria (with reference to its role in cellular respiration, and its significance as semi-autonomous organelle), Lysosome (with reference to its diverse roles due to hydrolytic activity of enzymes), eroxisome (with reference to metabolism of hydrogen peroxide), glycoxysome (with reference to glyoxylic acid cycle). 3. Plasma membrane and its functions: Chemical composition and structure of plasma membranes, cell permeability, active transport, endocytosis, phagocytosis. 4. Cytoskeleton: Microfilaments, Microtubules, Intermediate filaments.

Course Synopsis

The objectives of the course are:- 1. To explain the basic concepts of cell biology. 2. To understand cellular structure, composition of the organelles, cell growth and cellular division. 3. To explain how macromolecules and organelles govern the dynamic organization, function of living cells.

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, the student will be able to: 1. ACQUIRE the basic concepts of cell biology. 2. UNDERSTAND the metabolic processes of cells in terms of cellular organelles, membranes, and biological molecules. 3. ABILITY to understand the role of macromolecules regulating cellular processes. 4. FORMULATE the critical thinking skills and knowledge on cell.