Current Topics in Prion Biology - BCH2103H

The content of this course will focus on emerging topics of interest in prion biology. Topics that will be covered will include: 1) prion function; 2) prion structure; 3) prion detection; 4) prion disease therapeutics; and 5) prion-like propagation of protein aggregates in other neurodegenerative diseases. Each class (2 hr) will consist of a brief introductory lecture on the day’s topic and then 2-3 students will present a paper to the class, which will be followed by a discussion session.

Method of Student Evaluation:
40% oral presentation
40% written report
20% participation
Each student will be required to give one journal club-style presentation of an assigned paper (40%). At the end of the course, students will prepare a short research proposal that follows on from the results in the assigned paper (40%).

Course Coordinator:
Joel Watts

Enrollment Limit:
15