Graduate Courses at UMB and UMBC

Courses on the UMB campus offered by the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology use the "MBIC" prefix.

Courses on the UMBC campus offered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry use the "CHEM" prefix.

MBIC 608
Introduction to Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
4 credits
Fall
A general survey of introductory biochemistry which presupposes no earlier formal biochemistry but requires a knowledge of introductory organic chemistry. Covers major topics of general biochemistry, including structure and metabolism of major classes of molecules of biological occurrence, enzymology and molecular biology. Prerequisite: Consent of Department.

MBIC 616
Molecular Mechanisms of Signal Transduction
3 credits
Spring
This course is a literature, discussion, and lecture course which meets twice a week for three hours per week. Mechanisms of hormone action upon target cells will be discussed with emphasis upon the molecular mechanisms by which hormones mediate their cellular effects. Prerequisite: A course in (or good understanding of) basic molecular and cellular biology.

MBIC 625
Fundamentals of Membrane Transport - Ion Channels
3 credits
Fall
This is a one-semester course for graduate students interested in the role of voltage- and receptor-gated ion channels in cell function. Although the emphasis is on the structure and function of channels in excitable tissues such as nerve and muscle, students will gain valuable insight into the rapidly developing field of ion channel function in non-excitable cells such as lymphocytes, transformed cells and glial cells as well as the roles of ion channels in development.

MBIC 626
Fundamentals of Membrane Transport - Carrier Mechanisms
3 credits
Spring
This course is designed to provide a foundation for future course work, an understanding of the current and past literature and a background for future laboratory research in the area. The initial phase of the course covers the general methodology, thermodynamics and kinetics of transcellular and transepithelial ion transport. The final phase deals with the biochemical mechanisms and molecular biology of common membrane transport systems such as active ion pumps, co- and counter-transport and facilitated diffusion. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

MBIC 628
Seminar Membrane Study
1 credit
Fall
This weekly one-hour seminar will expose students to the latest advances in the field of biological membranes through an examination of the original literature. The format involves presentations of recent papers by faculty, research fellows and students. A wide range of topics will be covered, including membrane structure and function, the molecular basis of excitation, channel function, transport mechanisms, the role of cell membrane in controlling the cytoplasmic milieu, Ca2+ homeostasis and its relationship to excitation-contraction and excitation-secretion coupling. To receive credit students are required to attend regularly and to give one seminar presentation.

MBIC 629
Seminar Neuroscience
1 credit
Fall
This weekly one-hour seminar will expose students to the latest advances in the field of neuroscience through an examination of the original literature. The format involves presentations of recent papers by faculty, research fellows and students. A wide range of topics will be covered, including cellular, molecular, developmental and systems neuroscience. To receive credit, students are required to attend regularly and to give one seminar presentation.

MBIC 648
Professor's Rounds
1 credit
This weekly one-hour seminar will expose students to selected topics in the field of biomembranes through brief presentations by faculty. Two topics will be discussed each week, by two faculty members in the Interdepartment Program in Membrane Biology. Presentations will be summaries of research going on in the laboratories of the speakers. Time is reserved for questioning and open discussion.

MBIC 701
Molecular Structure & Function in Biochemistry
3 credits
Fall
This is one of the advanced core courses for the biochemistry program. The emphasis of the course is on protein function and covers the following topics: steady state kinetics, elementary thermodynamics, the chemistry of enzyme mechanisms, protein chemistry, allosteric interactions, membrane transport, protein folding and stability, and protein fluorescence. The course includes problem sets and two exams.

MBIC 703
Advanced Molecular Biology
3 credits
Spring
Advanced course for graduate students majoring in the areas of molecular biology and genetics. Requires a knowledge of introductory molecular biology such as MMCB 602. The course covers current development of DNA replication, repair, recombination, gene expression and RNA processing in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes (with emphasis on eukaryotic systems).

MBIC 708
Graduate Biochemistry Seminar
2 credits
Fall and Spring
The graduate seminar in biochemistry examines current issues in biochemistry and molecular biology. Specific topics will vary each semester and are chosen in advance by the instructor. Students are expected to survey the literature and prepare a representative publication for presentation to the class. The course will stress critical evaluation of the scientific literature and skills in oral presentation of scientific information. Participation in weekly discussions is an essential aspect of the course.

MBIC 710
Membrane Biochemistry
4 credits
Spring
The object of this course is to give students a firm basis for studying biological membranes. Initial lectures focus on the organization of membranes and the structure of membrane proteins. Subsequent topics include the biosynthesis and degradation of membrane proteins, and the formation of specialized structures, such as gap junctions, in plasma membranes. The last part of the course emphasizes the membranes of excitable cells, with a series of lectures on neurotransmitter receptors, gated channels, second messenger systems, and transport mechanisms. Readings in the original literature are emphasized throughout. Note: Also listed as MPHY/MPET 710.

MBIC 711
Lab Rotations
3 credits
Fall and Spring
This is a required course, although it may be substituted by CHEM 602. Students must complete at least three rotations in three different laboratories within the program. The rotations must cover a minimum of two out of the five subject areas: molecular biology, enzymology and bioorganic chemistry, physical biochemistry, metabolism and regulation, and biochemistry of structure and function. Rotations are usually of six- to eight-week duration in each laboratory, in which time students may gain experience in a variety of techniques in biochemistry and molecular biology and will be able to make an objective decision in their selection of a research advisor.

MBIC 713
Biochemistry Seminar
1 credit
This core course will be offered to first- and second-year graduate students. A varied background in the biochemistry/molecular biology current research fields will be presented. Students will be required to attend eight seminars in the semester either at the UMAB Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology or UMBC Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry campuses.

MBIC 714
Muscle: Contractility & Excitation-Contraction Coupling
3 credits
This course offers a comprehensive description of the basic physiology, biochemistry and biophysics of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle. Topics include: ultrastructure of skeletal muscle; mechanical and biochemical features of the crossbridge cycle in contraction; excitation- contraction coupling; calcium-induced calcium release in cardiac muscle; physiology and pharmacology of smooth muscle. Note: Also listed as MPHY/MBPH 714. Prerequisite: MPHY 610 or consent of instructor.

MBIC 715
Muscle Cell Biology and Development
3 credits
This course will consider the developmental biology of muscle, including its innervation and plasticity. The course begins with a discussion of the factors controlling the proliferation and differentiation of myoblasts. Next, we consider fiber type determination, and its relationship to use, and the effects of muscle hypertrophy and atrophy on muscle. The structure, function and formation of the neuromuscular junction and its relationship to the organization of structures in the extrajunctional region forms the next set of topics. A special emphasis in this section of the course is placed on the extracellular matrix and the cytoskeleton. The last part of the course deals with the relationship of activity and hormonal influences on the biochemical properties of muscle. The course meets twice weekly for 1-1/2 hour sessions consisting of one lecture and one session for student oral presentations and discussion of assigned research pertinent to the lecture topic. Note: Also listed as MPET/MPHY/MANA 715 (fall). Prerequisite: MPHY 610 or consent of the instructor.

MBIC 720
Time-Resolved Fluorescence Spectroscopy
2 credits
The course is an intensive introduction to the techniques of time- and frequency-domain fluorescence spectroscopy, with emphasis on applications in biochemistry and biophysics. The course lasts 4-1/2 days during January and is divided into an initial section lasting two days, and an advanced section lasting 2-1/2 days. Topics covered include time- and frequency-domain measurement techniques, time-resolved anisotropy, data analysis including global analysis, instrumental design, fluorescence energy transfer, transient effects in quenching, and excited state reactions. Topics that may also be covered include fluorescence-based sensing, including fiber optics, fluorescence lifetime imaging, fluorometry with two-photon excitation, and nearinfrared fluorometry. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

MBIC 730
Protein-Lipid Interactions
3 credits
Fall
This course is designed to introduce students to recent advances in understanding the interactions of proteins and lipids in biological membranes, and the importance of these interactions in normal cellular functions. A special emphasis is placed on proteins involved in signalling. Topics to be covered include: reconstitution of integral membrane proteins (channels and transporters, adenyl cyclase), peripheral membrane proteins (G proteins, protein kinase C) annulus lipids, channel- forming toxins, fatty acylated proteins, (ras, p60src) and GPI-linked proteins, macro- and microdomains of membrane lipids, and lipid regulators (diacylglycerol, arachidonate). Note: Also listed as MPET/MPHY 730. Prerequisites: MBIC 710 or consent of instructor.

MBIC 799
Master's Thesis Variable Research
1-6 credits
Fall and Spring
Master's Thesis is optional within the M.S. Program. It is also completed when the usual Ph.D. requirements are not possible.

MBIC 899
Doctoral Dissertation Variable Research
1-12 credits
Fall and Spring
Doctoral Dissertation research under the direction of the faculty advisor chosen by the student. A minimum of 12 semester-hours is required for the Ph.D. degree. Courses offered by the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UMBC use the "CHEM" prefix.

CHEM 401
Chemical and Statistical Thermodynamics
3 credits
Spring
Intended for first-year graduate students and advanced undergraduates, this course is a treatment of chemical and statistical thermodynamics at a more sophisticated level than that encountered in CHEM 301/302. Emphasis is placed on the use of thermodynamic data available in the chemical literature and experimental methods of obtaining these data. Offered spring semester. Prerequisite: CHEM 302.

CHEM 405
Inorganic Chemistry
3 credits
Fall
Basic theoretical concepts of inorganic chemistry including a study of the periodic table, its elements, and their physical and chemical properties. Several theories of bonding are discussed, as well as the mechanisms of inorganic reactions, coordination chemistry and the chemistry of transition metals. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: CHEM 302

CHEM 410
Quantum Chemistry
3 credits
Fall
Introduction to the principles of quantum mechanics and their application to chemical systems. The postulatory basis of quantum mechanics, approximate methods, vibrational, rotational, electronic, nuclear magnetic and electron spin spectroscopy, atomic structure, the chemical bond, valence bond and molecular orbital theory. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: CHEM 302.

CHEM 437
Comprehensive Biochemistry I
4 credits
Fall
The first semester of a two-semester sequence providing a thorough introduction to the principles of modern biochemistry. Major topics include enzyme kinetics and the structures and properties of proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and lipids. Offered fall semester. Prerequisites: BIOL 100 and CHEM 352 or equivalent.

CHEM 437
Biochemistry Laboratory
4 credits
Fall
Modern methods of biochemical research. Laboratory experiments are designed to provide experience in working with biologically active materials and familiarity with standard biochemical techniques. These include spectrophotometry; chromatography; isotope tracer techniques; ultracentrifugation; enzyme kinetics; isolation, purification and characterization of proteins, nucleic acids and subcellular organelles. Two laboratory sessions per week. Offered fall semester. Corequisites: CHEM 437 and consent of instructor.

CHEM 451
Mechanisms of Organic Reactions
3 credits
Fall
Advanced general treatment of the study of organic reaction mechanisms with emphasis on the development of broad principles governing a variety of organic reactions. Description of reaction pathways and metastable intermediates such as carbonium ions, carbanions, carbenes and free radicals, as well as methods for determination of mechanisms, kinetics, stereochemistry and free energy relationships. Offered fall semester. Prerequisite: CHEM 352.

CHEM 601
Current Topics in Chemistry
1-4 credits
A discussion of specialized topics in areas of chemistry currently in a state of rapid evolution. The format of the course will be tutorial. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 602
Introduction to Laboratory Research
1-3 credits
The purpose of this course is to familiarize graduate students with the different areas of research within the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, to expand their knowledge of experimental techniques, and to provide the basis for a more informed selection of an advisor for thesis research. A student enrolling in the course will work for periods not to exceed six weeks in the laboratories of three different faculty members, at least one of whom should be engaged in an area of research different from the preferred area of specialization of the student.

CHEM 606
Bioinorganic Chemistry
3 credits
Spring
The functions of metals in biology, biochemistry, and medicine are presented with emphasis on the structural and catalytic properties of metal centers in metalloproteins. Topics include catalysis, metalloenzyme mechanisms, inorganic cofactors and coenzymes, and metal chemotherapeutic agents. Offered spring semester. Prerequisite: CHEM 405 or consent of instructor.

CHEM 610
Special Topics in Theoretical Chemistry
3 credits
Discussions of current approaches to problems in theoretical chemistry will be presented in the form of lectures and seminars. Topics to be discussed will include: molecular orbital theory; statistical mechanics of non-ideal systems; cooperative systems, phase transitions and critical phenomena; non-equilibrium thermodynamics and rate theory; scattering theory and molecular spectra. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 615
Statistical Mechanics and Theory of Rate Processes
3 credits
Introduction to statistical mechanics and theoretical aspects of absolute reaction rate theory. Statistical definition of entropy, compounding of systems, combinatorial problems, the methods of Gibbs, quantum statistics, partition functions, applications in equilibrium states of gases, solids, liquids and partition formulation of the theory of absolute reaction rates. Prerequisite: CHEM 302.

CHEM 631
Chemistry of Proteins
3 credits
An advanced treatment of the chemistry of proteins and protein-containing supramolecular structures. The topics include: isolation and purification of proteins, structure of proteins, and relation of structure to biological function. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 632
Advanced Biochemistry
3 credits
The topics presented would not normally be covered in any other biochemical courses and may include: an advanced treatment of enzyme kinetics, with emphasis upon two-substrate systems; allosteric control mechanisms; replication and transcription; and the biochemistry of specialized tissues. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 633
Biochemistry of Nucleic Acids
3 credits
A survey of nucleic acid structure and function, with emphasis on chemical aspects. Topics will include: DNA and RNA structure, packaging of nucleic acids, chemical and physical properties of nucleic acids, proteins and enzymes of DNA replication, fidelity of nucleic acid synthesis, biochemistry of DNA recombination, enzymology of transcription, and RNA processing. Prerequisite: CHEM 437, or equivalent, or consent of instructor.

CHEM 635
Biochemistry of Complex Carbohydrates
3 credits
Structure and function of the carbohydrates of glycoproteins, glycolipids, proteoglycans and bacterial polysaccharides. Carbohydrates as informational macromolecules. Decoding by lectins, biosynthesis, structure, engineering of glycoproteins, bacterial adhesion and virulence, and tumor antigens.

CHEM 638
Comprehensive Biochemistry II
4 credits
Spring
This course is intended primarily for first-year graduate students who have completed CHEM 437 (Comprehensive Biochemistry I). The student will be required to attend the undergraduate lecture course in biochemistry (CHEM 438, Comprehensive Biochemistry II) that covers metabolic pathways and selected topics in nucleic acid and membrane biochemistry. In addition, the student will be assigned reading in the research literature in one or more of the above areas and be required to write a paper based on this reading.

CHEM 640
Special Topics in Molecular Structure
3 credits
Discussions of the major physical methods for determination of molecular structure will be presented. Emphasis will be placed on the application of theoretical principles to experimental problems and to computational methods, required for interpretation of data. Topics to be discussed include: x-ray, electron and neutron scattering; molecular spectroscopy (infrared, ultraviolet, and microwave), nuclear magnetic and electron spin resonance; dipole moment determination and dielectric relaxation. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 641
Physical Chemistry of Macromolecules
3 credits
Introduction to the physical chemistry of macromolecules. Emphasis will be placed on the development of broad general concepts applicable to the study of all types of macromolecules, i.e., synthetic and biological. Topics considered include: determination of molecular weight distributions; conformational properties of high polymers; thermodynamics and transport properties of polymer solutions, polyelectrolytes and polymerization processes. Techniques such as sedimentation analysis, light scattering, osmometry and viscometry will be discussed. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 642
Physical Biochemistry
3 credits
Topics include: structural determination of proteins and nucleic acids in the solid state and in solution; transitions between, and stability of, secondary and tertiary structure; ligand binding and association processes; interpretation of spectra, titration curves and multicomponent equilibria, hydrodynamic properties and fluorescence polarization. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor. CHEM 302, CHEM 441 is recommended.

CHEM 643
Molecular Spectroscopy and Biopolymers
3 credits
Team-taught course covering theory and applications of advanced spectroscopic techniques used to study the structure and function of biomacromolecules (polysaccharides, DNA, coenzymes and cofactors). Aspects of modern Fourier Transform NMR, including one- and two-dimensional methods (COSY, NOESY, HOHAHA) will be presented. Principles of mass spectrometry and examples of the potential, limitations and applications of electron impact, desorption ionization, high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry, and interfaced chromatography-mass spectrometry will be discussed. Theory and applications of other spectroscopic techniques, including molecular vibrational (Raman, resonance Raman and infrared), electron spin resonance (ESR), and laser fluorescence spectroscopies will also be presented. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 644
Molecular Modeling
2 credits
Survey of theoretical methods for simulation of biopolymer conformation. Study includes: energy maps, energy minimization and molecular dynamics simulation; influence of solvent; applications to proteins, nucleic acids, etc.; calculations using the CHARMm code. Prerequisites: CHEM 301, 302 and 437 or equivalents.

CHEM 650
The Chemistry of Heterocyclic Compounds
3 credits
An in-depth survey of the properties, reactions, and synthesis of heterocyclic compounds containing the heteroatoms of oxygen, sulfur and/or nitrogen. The course will consist of lectures based on readings from monographs and current literature. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 652
Physical Organic Chemistry
3 credits
Introduction to theoretical aspects of organic chemistry. Molecular orbital approximations, linear free-energy relationships, general theory of acid-base catalysis, medium effects and isotope effects. Prerequisite: CHEM 451 and consent of instructor.

CHEM 653
Organic Chemistry of Nucleic Acids
2 credits
A survey of organic chemical principles governing structure, properties and reactions of nucleic acids, including synthesis of nucleic acid bases, nucleosides, nucleotides and polynucleotides, and their important synthetic analogues possessing antiviral and antitumor properties. Study of reactivity of nucleic acid building blocks, including addition and substitution reactions, ring-openings and rearrangements, hydrolysis of glycosidic and phosphodiester bonds, and photochemical reactions. Study of primary structure, acid-base property, tautomerism, and conformation of nucleic acids. Review of secondary structure, base-pairing and stacking interactions, helical structure, stability, conformation, denaturation, renaturation and cross-linking. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 654
Organic Synthetic Chemistry
3 credits
A survey of the basic principles of reactivity, reactions and strategies in organic synthesis. The course will focus on reactions leading to new bond formation, functional group transformation and the combination of these reactions in the synthesis of complex organic molecules. Lectures will be based on readings from monographs and the current literature. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 660
Special Topics in Analytical Chemistry
3 credits
A course of lectures and seminars devoted to modern methods in analytical chemistry. Two of the following topics will be considered each semester: instrumental methods in spectroscopic analysis; scattering and diffraction methods; electroanalytical and polarographic techniques, chromatography; separation and purification methods; tracer methods. Readings from the current literature will be the basis of both lectures and seminars. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 661
Advanced Instrumental Methods of Analysis
4 credits
Spring
A lecture-laboratory course devoted to the theory, instrumentation and application of modern electrochemical, spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques. Advantages and limitations of different instrumental methods are discussed using selected topics of environmental, clinical and toxicological analyses. Journal articles will be used to review recent advances and new trends in development of analytical techniques. Laboratory experiments may include: polarography and pulse voltammetry, anodic stripping analysis, potentiometry with ion selective electrodes, flame and electrothermal atomic absorption, UV-VIS spectrophotometry, Raman spectroscopy, electrophoresis, capillary gas chromatography, and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Offered spring semester. Prerequisite: CHEM 300 and 311L or equivalent, or consent of instructor.

CHEM 662
Analytical Spectroscopy
3 credits
An advanced course in spectroscopic methods of qualitative and quantitative analysis with emphasis on instrumental design, construction and operation. Topics will include atomic spectroscopy, light scattering, electronic and vibrational molecular spectroscopy. The role of lasers in modern spectroscopic methods will be explored.

CHEM 663
Analytical Separations
3 credits
An advanced course in separation science with emphasis on chromatographic techniques. This course will cover the theory of chemical separations, physical description and operation of various chromatographic instruments, and general application of these techniques. Readings from the current literature will supplement the lectures.

CHEM 670
Special Topics in Dynamics and Mechanisms
3 credits
Discussions of the major methods and approaches to the study of chemical kinetics and other rate processes as applied to the elucidation of mechanisms of organic, inorganic and biochemical reactions. One of two of the following topics will form the basis of a semester's work in this course: rapid reaction techniques; stopped flow, pressure and temperature jump methods; ultrasonics; inorganic reaction mechanisms; solvation, electron and proton transfer; substitution reactions; biocatalysis; inhibition, activation and allosteric effects; kinetics of structural transitions and phase transformation; gas phase kinetics and heterogeneous catalysis. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 672
Enzyme Reaction Mechanisms
3 credits
The mechanism of enzyme action will be examined with emphasis on the following topics: threedimensional structure of enzymes; chemical catalysis; methods of determining enzyme mechanisms; stereochemistry of enzymatic reactions; detection of intermediates; affinity labels and suicide inhibitors; transition state analogs; energy relationships, evolutionarily perfect enzymes; genetic engineering and enzymes; use of binding energy in catalysis. Instruction will be in both lecture and seminar format, with emphasis on recent literature. Prerequisites: CHEM 352 and 457 or BIOL 430 or consent of instructor. CHEM 451 is recommended.

CHEM 680
Seminar in Biophysical Chemistry
3 credits
A series of weekly lectures and seminars dealing with current developments in the field of biophysical chemistry.

CHEM 682
Special Topics in Biochemistry
3 credits
A series of weekly lectures and seminars dealing with topics of current research interest in the field of biochemistry. A single area in which advances of major significance have been made may be chosen.

CHEM 684
Special Topics in Chemistry
3 credits
A series of weekly lectures and seminars dealing with recent or current important developments in chemistry. A single area, in which advances of major significance have been made, will be selected, or a given term, e.g., physical, organic or inorganic chemistry, will be focused upon.

CHEM 690
Chemistry Seminar
1 credit
A series of weekly seminars devoted to a wide range of topics encompassing the current literature in all fields of chemistry. Each student will be required to present an extensive written paper based on the studentss seminar and on collateral readings from current literature. Enrollment will be limited so as to ensure that each participating student has an opportunity to present at least one major seminar. Prerequisite: Consent of instructor.

CHEM 710
Research Tutorial in Chemistry
1 credit
Intensive tutorial seminar on current topics of research actively pursued by the faculty member directing the course.

CHEM 713
Biochemistry/Chemistry Seminar
1 credit
Fall and Spring
This core course will be given to first- and second-year graduate students. A varied background in the biochemistry/chemistry current research fields will be presented. Students will be required to attend eight seminars in the semester, either at the UMAB Department of Biological Chemistry or the UMBC Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. Course is cross-listed with MBIC 713.

CHEM 799
Master's Thesis Variable Research
1-6 credits
Fall and Spring
Master's thesis research under the direction of a faculty member. Six semester hours are required for the M.S. degree.

CHEM 899
Doctoral Dissertation
1-6 credits
Fall and Spring
Doctoral dissertation research under the direction of the faculty advisor chosen by the student. A minimum of 12 semester-hours is required for the Ph.D. degree.