Systems Biology: Principles of Cell Signaling

The systems biology set of courses aims to give students an overview of how cells process information to build and replicate themselves as well as respond to extracellular signals and environmental changes. The techniques used and discussed in detail are those currently utilized in modern quantitative cell biology. This course in the systems biology set aims to provide an understanding of the principles of cell signaling as applied to natural and synthetic biological circuits. As a primary example of naturally occurring signaling circuits, we will consider in detail the pathway responsible for controlling cell division in response to intra- and extra-cellular signals. The class will cover classic and current techniques for the genetic analysis of the key regulatory circuits governing the control of cell division. Specific topics include tractable model organisms; growth control; and irreversible biochemical switches. The class will be based on a weekly lecture followed by the analysis of classic and current primary literature as well as basic concepts in nonlinear dynamics.