CAMB/BIOL 486 Cell Division and the Mitotic Spindle

Spring 2008

Instructor: Michael Lampson
204-I Lynch Laboratories
lampson@sas.upenn.edu

Cell division is a fundamental process that has fascinated biologists for over a century. By reading selected primary literature covering several decades, we will build an understanding of cell division by focusing on the mitotic spindle. We will start with microtubules, the primary structural component of the spindle, and discuss how their dynamic properties are exploited for spindle function. The purpose of the spindle is to accurately segregate the replicated chromosomes to maintain genomic integrity over many cell divisions. We will explore the
mechanisms that underlie this process, particularly cell cycle control by the mitotic spindle checkpoint. The goal of the course is to develop a picture of spindle function by examining some of the key experiments and insights that have led to our current understanding.

Prerequisites: The course is designed for advanced biology students who have taken BIOL 202 or equivalent. It is also open to graduate students.
There is no textbook for the course. Readings from the primary literature will be assigned for each meeting and provided as pdf files. Presentations of these papers and class participation, including questions and critical evaluation, are an essential part of the course.

Grading will be based on one in-class exam during the semester (30%), a final paper (30%), and class participation (40%, including paper presentations).