BIOL 572 - Cells and Society

This course will explore the biochemisty, cell biology, neurobiology, and the societal impacts of the opioid receptor. We will track how a receptor is made, how it is transported in the cell, and how it functions with regards to pain and sedation. We will then disucss the origins of the opioid pandemic starting from a historical prespective transitioning to how it affects the ecomomy, race relations, and the society at large. In order to do so, we will read primary literature pulling from cell biology/neurobiology, sociology, and economics to taking a holistic, interdisciplinary approach.

Unit(s): 0.5
Instructional Method: Conference
Grading Mode: Letter grading (A-F)
Notes: Graduate course. Offered spring 2027.
Group Distribution Learning Outcome(s):

Identify interactions and influences among various disciplines, fields, theories, analytical strategies, and source materials.
Deploy skills, methods, and knowledge developed in coursework.
Conduct complex research, synthesize it, and argue persuasively in support of a claim based on evidence.
Express oneself articulately in oral discussion and in presentational modes when appropriate, and express oneself articulately in writing.