ANS 6751 Physiology of Reproduction

Description

The course provides graduate students with a state-of-the-art perspective on mammalian reproductive biology at molecular, cellular, and whole-animal levels of organization. Among the topics covered are hypothalamic-pituitary function, oogenesis and spermatogenesis, folliculogenesis, uterine biology, embryonic development, pregnancy endocrinology, reproductive immunology, and photoperiodic and nutritional regulation of reproduction.  The course is taught at a high level and is expected that students will have a good understanding of the fundamentals of reproductive biology and biochemistry.

Prerequisites

BCH 5045 or equivalent.  An undergraduate course in animal reproduction would be helpful.

Frequency of Offering

Spring semester, odd years

ANS 6313 Current Concepts in Reproductive Biology

Description

This course uses an in-depth discussion of recent review articles and original research publications on controversial or cutting-edge topics in reproductive biology to provide students with opportunities to 1) become aware of recent developments in reproductive biology, 2) develop critical thinking skills, and 3)  formulate theoretical models to underpin the development of research programs. The course is designed for advanced students in reproductive biology and other biosciences. 

Requirements

Consent of the instructor is required and enrollment will be limited. Extensive experience in reproductive biology or a formal course in reproduction is required.  It is strongly recommended that students have completed a course in molecular biology or cell biology. 

Course Format

The course meets for 2 hours once weekly.  Before class, students are assigned readings consisting of 2-3 review articles assigned by the instructor and one original research paper chosen by the students.  The first hour of the class is taken up with a general discussion of the concepts illustrated in the review articles.  The original research paper is evaluated in the second hour in a discussion. Each class period, one student will be assigned to lead the discussion of the review articles and one student will be assigned to choose the research paper and lead the discussion on the paper.

FREQUENCY OF OFFERING

Fall semester, odd years

PCB 6816 Thermal Physiology

Description

The course provides information about the fundamentals of how animals produce and exchange heat with the environment, the regulation of body temperature, and how thermal biology has an impact on animal management and production.

Frequency of Offering

Spring, Fall and Summer A semesters