BIOLOGY 132 - Circadian Rhythms

Institution:

Bard College

Subject:

Description:

Why do some flowers open at the same time each day, and how do bees consistently arrive just minutes before? Why does jet lag often feel worse the second or third day? What are possible consequences of the shift from our days being an "echo of the sun" to living in a "24/7society? Intended for nonscientists, this course examines the timekeeping mechanisms of organisms including fungi, plants, insects, and vertebrates. A significant amount of time is spent on human circadian biology, such as mutations that alter sleeping patterns, the health effects of jet lag and shift work, and the promise of chronotherapy in the treatment of cancer. Laboratory experiments include analysis of circadian rhythm properties and the cellular/molecular underpinnings of clock mechanisms. No specific science or mathematics background beyond algebra is required.

Credits:

4.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.bard.edu

Phone Number:

(845) 758-6822

Regional Accreditation:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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