BIOL 307 - Symbiosis in biology and medicine

(3 units)

“Every organism on earth is a product of symbiosis.” In this course, we will investigate this claim. Through a deep dive into the intricate relationships between species that live together closely, we will illuminate the profound role of symbiosis in maintaining both ecosystems and human health. The goal of the course is to shed light on how understanding symbiosis can change how we think about physiology, the nature of the organism, and the nature of the evolutionary process.

Maximum units a student may earn: 3

Prerequisite(s): BIOL 191A

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Fall

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. explain why symbiosis is fundamental to life on earth and to human health.
2. compare and contrast among different types of symbiotic interactions and interpret how and why symbioses vary in their outcomes for the health of the host.
3. critique primary scientific literature investigating symbioses on the basis of assumptions, experimental design, and conclusions.

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