Course Listings
All DRB students must be BBS students; therefore DRB students must fulfill all BBS Course Requirements.
As of fall 2011, students who choose to follow the DRB-BBS area of concentration are required to:
- Participate in the DRB 330: Experimental Approaches to Developmental Biology or DRB “Boot Camp” course. This 2.5-week January course is organized into "mini-rotations" in which students spend a day in a number of labs across the Harvard campuses and affiliated hospitals. In these settings, students are able to engage with faculty and develop a working sense of the tools, techniques, and methods used in their research.
- Cell Biology 207: Vertebrate Developmental Biology (full- semester spring course)
DRB 301qc: Stem cells, patterning, and organogenesis: Lessons from model organisms (half-semester fall course)
Any courses taken to fulfill the DRB requirements will count towards the eight required courses for BBS.
For other courses in DRB topics offered through the Division of Medical Sciences, please go here. You can also take courses through FAS.
Fall Term | Spring Term | Quarter Courses
Fall Term
Cell Biology 226. Concepts in Development, Self-Renewal, and Repair
Catalog Number: 8747 Enrollment: Limited to 14.
Iain A. Drummond, Alan J. Davidson, Niels Geijsen, N. Nanda Nanthakumar, Lizabeth A. Perkins, and David T. Scadden
Half course (fall term). F., 2–5.
Explores developmental mechanisms through the life cycle, contrasting pluripotency and cell fate restriction in embryos and adult tissues. In depth analysis of in vivo approaches, with emphasis on adult stem cells, tissue repair and self-renewal.
Note: Offered jointly with the Medical School as CB 721.0. For more information visit: www.mgh.harvard.edu/bbs/index.htm
Prerequisite: Upper division cell biology or equivalent.
Health Sciences and Technology 535: Principles and Practice of Tissue Engineering
Myron Spector
Half course (fall term). W., 8–9:30.
Leaders in the field present the principles and practice of tissue engineering (and regenerative medicine). Topics include the principles underlying strategies for employing select exogenous cells, biomaterial scaffolds, soluble regulators or their genes, and mechanical loading for the regeneration of tissues and organs in vitro and in vivo. Differentiated cell types and stem cells are compared and contrasted for this application, as are natural and synthetic scaffolds. Covers the rationale for employing selected growth factors and examines the methods for incorporating their genes into the scaffolds. Discusses the influence of environmental factors, including mechanical loading and culture conditions. Presents methods for fabricating tissue-engineered products and devices for implantation. Addresses the federal regulatory status of tissue-engineered products, as well as strategies for introducing such products into the clinic. Examples of procedures currently employed clinically are analyzed as case studies. All sessions are webcast to the world and archived for open access review at any time.
MCB 118. From Egg to Embryo to Organ
Catalog Number: 0749
Andrew P. McMahon
Half course (fall term). M., W., 2:30–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
We will explore the molecular and cellular developmental mechanisms that regulate the progressive elaboration of a functional adult body plan through the study of vertebrate and invertebrate experimental model systems.
Prerequisite: Life and Physcial Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a (or equivalent); Life Sciences 1b or MCB 54 recommended.
Neurobiology 200. Introduction to Neurobiology
Catalog Number: 6062 Enrollment: Limited to 50.
Richard H. Masland, John A. Assad, David P. Corey, Matthew P. Frosch, and Rosalind A. Segal
Half course (fall term). M., W., F., 9-12.
Modern neuroscience from molecular biology to perception and cognition. Includes cell biology of neurons and glia; ion channels and electrical signaling; synaptic transmission; brain anatomy and development; sensory systems; motor systems; higher cognitive function.
Note: Offered jointly with the Medical School as HT 130. Follows the Medical School calendar. Nine hours of lecture or lab/conference weekly.
Prerequisite: Introductory cell and molecular biology or with permission of instructor.
OEB 115. Evolutionary Developmental Biology in Animals
Catalog Number: 9892
Arkhat Abzhanov
Half course (fall term). M., F., 1–3.
A lecture course in evolutionary developmental biology. Main principles and mechanisms of development as illustrated on both invertebrate and vertebrate animal model systems. In this course we will discuss how animal embryos develop adult body plans on cellular and molecular level. Particular emphasis will be placed on how knowledge of developmental biology helps us understand major evolutionary transitions and the origin of innovation in animal evolution.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1a (or LPS A) and 1b, or permission of instructor. OEB 10, MCB 52, and MCB 54 are recommended but not required. Open to students from any concentration.
OEB 261r (formerly Biology 261r). Developmental Mechanisms of Evolutionary Change
Catalog Number: 8451
Arkhat Abzhanov
Half course (spring term). F., 2–3:30. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
A graduate seminar course in evolutionary developmental biology. In this course, we will discuss the latest advances in understanding the cellular and molecular developmental mechanisms that underlie important evolutionary phenomena. We will emphasize major evolutionary transitions and the origin of morphological innovations in animal evolution.
Prerequisite: LS 1A and LS 1B or by permission of the instructor.
SCRB 150 (formerly MCB 150). Human Genetics: Mining Our Genomes for an Understanding of Human Variation and Disease
Catalog Number: 5703
Kevin C. Eggan
Half course (fall term). M., 3–6. EXAM GROUP: 8, 9
The sequencing of the human genome has revealed the full extent of genetic variation that exists within us as a species. This genetic diversity underlies much of our physical variation as well as our differences in responsiveness to disease stimuli and their treatments. We will explore these and other ramifications of human genetic diversity by applying classical and contemporary genetic tools to the identification of specific genes and pathways that functionally underlie our variable biology.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a (or equivalent), Life Sciences 1b (or equivalent), and SCRB 10 or MCB 52.
SCRB 160. Experimental Embryology: From Stem Cells to Tissues and Back Again
Catalog Number: 45194 Enrollment: Limited to 16.
Paola Arlotta and Konrad Hochedlinger
Half course (fall term). M., 2–6. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
This advanced laboratory course will apply experimental approaches and surgical techniques to illustrate critical developmental events during mouse embryogenesis. Particular emphasis will be placed on experiments covering the following topics: fertilization and pre-implantation embryology; reprogramming of adult somatic cells into embryonic stem cells; early organ development; and surgical manipulation of late stage mouse embryos in utero.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; SCRB 10 or MCB 118 or MCB 54.
SCRB 170. Heart Stem Cell Therapeutics: A Case Study for Regenerative Medicine - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 22001
Kenneth R. Chien
Half course (fall term). M., W., 1–2:30.
Heart stem cell therapeutics is a paradigm for regenerative medicine. Multipotent "master" heart progenitors are revolutionizing our understanding of human cardiogenesis and its relationship to disease. Issues such as delivery, grafting, survival, rejection, scalability, tissue engineering, unwanted side effects, and imaging have all arisen when considering cell transplantation therapies. This course will examine the prospects and problems of heart stem cell therapeutics from multiple perspectives, e.g., scientific, medical, philanthropic, drug discovery/safety, governmental, ethical, and financial.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; SCRB 10 or MCB 54 or permission of the instructor.
SCRB 180. Repair and Regeneration in the Mammalian Brain
Catalog Number: 60301
Jeffrey D. Macklis and Paola Arlotta
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 2:30-4, and a weekly section to be arranged. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
This course will discuss cellular and molecular mechanisms of regeneration and repair in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). We will: compare and contrast aspects of neural development with adult neural plasticity; discuss limitations to neuronal regeneration in the mature mammalian CNS following degeneration or injury; examine CNS regeneration approaches directed at overcoming intrinsic limitations; and explore developmental controls and gene manipulation to promote neurogenesis, axonal regeneration, and directed differentiation in the diseased adult brain.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; MCB 80 or permission of the instructor.
SCRB 190. Understanding Aging: Degeneration, Regeneration, and the Scientific Search for the Fountain of Youth
Catalog Number: 1207
Amy J. Wagers and Lee L. Rubin
Half course (fall term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
This lecture and discussion course will explore the fundamental molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern organismal aging and contemporary strategies to delay or reverse this process.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; SCRB 10 or MCB 54.
Spring Term
Cell Biology 207. Developmental Biology: Molecular Mechanisms of Vertebrate Development
Catalog Number: 2044 Enrollment: Limited to 25.
Andrew B. Lassar, Patricia A. D’Amore, Alan J. Davidson, John G. Flanagan, Jordan A. Kreidberg, Richard L. Maas, Clifford J. Tabin, and Malcolm Whitman
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 2–4.
Analyzes the developmental programs of frog, chick, zebrafish, and mouse embryos, emphasizing experimental strategies for understanding the responsible molecular mechanisms that pattern the vertebrate embryo.
Note: Offered jointly with the Medical School as CB 710.0. Includes lectures and conference sessions in which original literature is discussed in depth. Short research proposals are required in lieu of exams.
Genetics 216. Advanced Topics in Gene Expression
Catalog Number: 2244
Robert E. Kingston and Fred Winston
Half course (spring term). Tu., 1–4.
Covers both biochemical and genetic studies in regulatory mechanisms. Small number of topics discussed in depth, using the primary literature. Topics range from prokaryotic transcription to eukaryotic development.
Note: Offered jointly with the Medical School as GN 703.0.
Prerequisite: BCMP 200 and Genetics 201.
Neurobiology 207. Developmental Neurobiology
Catalog Number: 4977 Enrollment: Limited to 20.
Lisa V. Goodrich, Michela Fagiolini, Chenghua Gu, and Beth Stevens
Half course (spring term). F., 10-12, W., 2-4.
Advanced topics in nervous system development, including cell fate determination, axon guidance, synapse development and critical periods. Focus on current areas of investigation, unresolved questions, and common experimental approaches.
Note: Offered jointly with the Medical School as NB 720.0. Students will read and discuss primary literature in the discussion sessions. Emphasis will be given to learning how to identify an important question and develop a feasible research plan, including a lecture on how to write a grant proposal and a mock study section. The final exam consists of a grant proposal; grades will also be determined by successful completion of homework assignments and class participation.
Prerequisite: Neurobiology 200 or with permission of instructor.
[Neurobiology 209. Neurobiology of Disease]
Catalog Number: 5562
Edward A. Kravitz and members of the Department
Half course (spring term). Hours to be arranged.
Monday sessions involve patient presentations and “core” lectures describing clinical progression, pathology, and basic science underlying a major disease or disorder. Wednesdays, students present material from original literature sources, and there is general discussion.
Note: Expected to be given in 2011–12. Given in alternate years. Offered jointly with the Medical School as NB 713.0. For advanced undergraduate, graduate students, MD and MD/PhD students.
Prerequisite: Introductory neurobiology, biochemistry, and genetics/molecular biology recommended.
SCRB 125 (formerly MCB 125). Nuclear Reprogramming and Developmental Plasticity
Catalog Number: 5481
Konrad Hochedlinger, William J. Anderson, and David T. Scadden
Half course (spring term). M., W., 1–2:30. EXAM GROUP: 6, 7
This course will focus on the biology of organismal cloning, cellular reprogramming, and developmental plasticity. The roll that stem cells play in these processes and the genetic and molecular circuitry that underlie developmental potency and reprogramming will be discussed.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; SCRB 10 or MCB 54, or permission of the instructor.
SCRB 140. Developmental and Molecular Basis of Growth and Regeneration - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 73523
Fernando D. Camargo
Half course (spring term). M., W., 2:30–4. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8
This course will focus on the biology of organ growth and regeneration from a developmental perspective. How is the size and symmetry of our organs set? How does a regenerating animal sense that something is missing and eventually stop the regenerative process when tissues reform? We will learn about conserved developmental pathways that are necessary for adult regeneration and discuss how the aberrant activation of these pathways can lead to overgrowth disorders such as cancer.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; SCRB 10 or MCB 54 or permission of the instructor.
SCRB 155. Epigenetic Regulation in Development
Catalog Number: 63211
Alexander Meissner
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 11:30–1. EXAM GROUP: 13, 14
Cloning of Dolly the sheep suggests that all of our cells have exactly the same genes as a fertilized egg. If this is true, then how is it that each of our cells reads out those genes differently? This course will explain the developmental events that regulate the expression of genes, as well as how this developmental expression is established and maintained.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; MCB 52; SCRB 10 or permission of the instructor.
SCRB 157. The RNA World - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 57449
John L. Rinn
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 1–2:30.
This course will introduce classic experiments and examples of functional RNA genes that comprise the ever-emerging RNA world. We will explore diverse classes of RNA genes and their biochemical mechanisms that have defined field, including overviews of relevant technologies leading to these principal findings. Lecture topics will be followed by students reading and presenting related primary literature. Collectively this course will provide an opportunity to explore the wide spectrum of cellular processes involving RNA molecules.
Prerequisite: Life Sciences 1a or equivalent; Life Sciences 1b; SCRB 10; MCB 52 or permission of the instructor.
SCRB 162. Experimental Regenerative Biology - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 37108
Qiao Zhou
Half course (spring term). M., 2–6. EXAM GROUP: 7, 8, 9
This laboratory course will allow advanced undergraduate students to explore classical and modern experimental models of regeneration, and through experimentation, understand the important concepts and key challenges of the regenerative biology field. We will focus in particular on the regeneration of complex tissues and entire organ systems using both invertebrate and vertebrate models, including the planarian worm, the salamander, and the mouse.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; SCRB 10 or MCB 54 or permission of the instructor.
SCRB 165. Directed Differentiation of Stem Cells
Catalog Number: 9605 Enrollment: Limited to 16.
Chad A. Cowan
Half course (spring term). Tu., at 3; Th., 1–4. EXAM GROUP: 15, 16, 17
This practical laboratory course will investigate the fundamental biology of human embryonic stem cells and their remarkable capacity to differentiate into all cells of the body. The underlying developmental pathways that guide embryonic stem cell development into these differentiated cell types will be explored. A chemical biology approach will also be used to probe properties of normal and disease model cells derived from embryonic stem cells.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a, or permission of instructor.
SCRB 167. Stem Cells and Regeneration in the Pathobiology and Treatment of Human Disease
Catalog Number: 9556 Enrollment: Limited to 14. For advanced students only, seniors and qualified juniors.
George Q. Daley and members of the Department
Half course (spring term). Th., 2-4 and a one-hour section meeting to be arranged.
Stem cells are the basis for tissue maintenance and repair, thus, are essential elements of normal organ and tissue physiology. Stem cells are also targets for disease processes and through transplantation are important therapeutic agents. This course will allow advanced undergraduates to explore how stem cells and tissue regeneration impact human disease pathogenesis and how stem cells might be exploited to advance new therapies for disease.
Note: Course to be offered at Harvard Medical School campus in Longwood.
Prerequisite: Life and Physical Sciences A or Life Sciences 1a; Life Sciences 1b; SCRB 10; MCB 52 or MCB 54.
Systems Biology 201. Principles of Animal Development from a Systems Perspective
Catalog Number: 5148
Sean G. Megason, Angela DePace, and Marc W. Kirschner
Half course (spring term). Tu., Th., 2–3:30. EXAM GROUP: 16, 17
Intensive and critical analysis of systems approaches to circuits and principles controlling pattern formation and morphogenesis in animals. Students develop their own ideas and present them through mentored "chalk talks" and other interactive activities.
Quarter Courses
Developmental & Regenerative Biology 301qc. Invertebrate Developmental Biology - (New Course)
Catalog Number: 32645
Norbert Perrimon, Spyros Artavanis-Tsakonas, Susan Mango, Lizabeth A. Perkins, Gary B. Ruvkun, and David L. Van Vactor
Quarter course (fall term; repeated spring term). Th., 3–5.
Explore application of genetic tools in model systems for the analysis of developmental events. Focus on developmental genetics of Drosophila, C. elegans, and mouse to provide a background in methods of in vivo genetic analysis.
Note: Course will meet Thursdays, February 3, 10, 17, 24, March 3, 10, 31, April 7, and 14. More details can be found by going to the Division of Medical Sciences website, then clicking current students and selecting curriculum.