How Do We Build Muscle? The Molecular Basis of Skeletal Muscle Development and Disease
MB&B 240
Fall 2026
| Section:
01
|
| Crosslisting:
BIOL 240 |
This lecture- and discussion-based course examines the molecular mechanisms that govern skeletal muscle development, homeostasis, regeneration, and disease. Through critical analysis of primary research articles, students will explore the regulation of myogenesis, including transcriptional control, chromatin remodeling, signaling pathways, mitochondrial metabolism, and ion homeostasis. Emphasis is placed on understanding how disruptions in these processes lead to muscle disorders such as muscular dystrophies, mitochondrial myopathies, cachexia, and metabolic muscle disease. Students will learn to interpret experimental approaches commonly used in muscle biology, including genetic models, cell culture systems, multi-omics analyses, and physiological assays. The course integrates developmental biology with disease mechanisms, fostering mechanistic thinking and critical evaluation of scientific evidence. Designed for advanced undergraduates interested in molecular biology, physiology, regenerative biology, and biomedical research. |
|
| Credit: 1 |
Gen Ed Area Dept:
NSM MB&B |
| Course Format: Lecture / Discussion | Grading Mode: Graded |
| Level: UGRD |
Prerequisites: (MB&B181 OR BIOL181) AND (MB&B182 OR BIOL182) AND MB&B208 AND CHEM251 |
|
Fulfills a Requirement for: (Biology)(Molecular Biology and Biochemistry) |
|
|
|