Sweet Biology: Sugars as Signals and Metabolites

Sugars rule the world of life. The acquisition, storage, and efficient usage of sugars are critical throughout biology from animals to plants to single-celled bacteria. In addition to their roles as primary metabolites, sugars can act as regulatory molecules, having major influences on various biological processes. In this course we will examine how different sugars influence the molecular regulation of metabolism and physiology using numerous examples from plants, animals, and unicellular organisms. To accomplish these aims, we will read primary literature on topics including energy storage, growth, and physiology, all in the context of nutrient sensing and signaling. Assignments will include in-class literature discussions, presentations, scientific writing and peer-review, and a final written popular science article. This is a non-lab course. (BIOL0145 and BIOL 0140)

3 hrs lecture.