MBG * 4270 – DNA Replication, Recombination and Repair W (3-0) [0.50]

This course will examine the DNA transactions that determine the structure and function of the genome, with an emphasis on natural and synthetic mutagens and their mode of action, replication and recombination of genetic material, recognition and repair of DNA damage, and inherited and somatic genetic diseases arising from abnormal DNA metabolism. Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology.


Posted By : Dee
Posted On : December 10, 2013

Is the textbook recommended by the student? No
Did the student enjoy the professor? Yes
Professor : Baker

Comment :
This course is not difficult. The lectures are very boring but the exam questions come right from the notes. The professor himself recommended rote memorization as a study tactic. Do not buy the textbook. There are a lot of protein names and pathways to remember so if you have a bad memory, you're out of luck. The written assignments require application and is beyond the scope of what he teaches which is very unfair. The material itself is not that interesting unless you are super-interested in the molecular properties of DNA. You'd think he'd add a presentation component or something considering the class size is so small. That would actually make the course more interesting instead of listening to him drone on 3 times a week and then rushing to memorize it all for the exams. Not a bad experience but not an enjoyable one.
Recommendation Rating
Overall Difficulty
Posted By : Anonymous
Posted On : April 25, 2012

Is the textbook recommended by the student? No
Did the student enjoy the professor? No
Professor : Not specified

Comment :
DONT TAKE THIS COURSE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD! Just dont do it under any circumstance! Material isnt to difficult but he lectures are so boring and the proff is very not willing to help
Recommendation Rating
Overall Difficulty
Posted By : Anonymous
Posted On : April 14, 2012

Is the textbook recommended by the student? No
Did the student enjoy the professor? No
Professor : Dr. Mark Baker

Comment :
This course is very memorization heavy. There are hundreds of proteins to remember and a lot of pathways too. Having said that, Dr. Baker is amazingly helpful in explaining what you do not understand and in pointing out what you need to know for the midterm (35%) and final (50%). There is also a Critical Thinking assignment (15%) do not leave this to the last minute!! It takes a lot of critical thinking (imagine), and not all the answers are found in the course material, he encourages outside sources (no references needed). Overall the course was interesting but very hard, the final was difficult but if you pay attention to his hints throughout the course you can narrow down what you have to study.
Recommendation Rating
Overall Difficulty