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Course Goals: Discussion of how fundamental physiological and biochemical activities of fungi impact the destructive and beneficial roles of these organisms in nature.

Utilization and manipulation of fungi for biotechnological and industrial applications.

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Entry Level: The student must have a knowledge of general biochemistry and molecular biology.

Completion of the Biological Sciences 1A, B, C series or equivalent and enrollment in or completion of Biological Sciences 102 or similar introductory level biochemistry course will provide the necessary background.

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Course Format: Three 1-hour lectures per week.

Grades will be based upon 3 mid-term examinations and the final examination.

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Subject Outline:
  • Fungi as unique organisms
  • Natural relationships among fungi
  • Cell composition and structure of fungi
  • Growth, reproduction, and sporulation of fungi
  • Fungal dimorphism
  • Nutrient uptake and metabolism
  • Biochemistry of development
  • Fungal hormones
  • Primary and secondary metabolism
  • Destructive roles of fungi in the environment
  • Mycotoxins
  • Molecular manipulation of fungi
  • Uses of fungi in industry and biotechnology
  • Uses of fungi in biological control and bioremediation
  • Medical mycology