7.347 Peptides as Biological Signaling Molecules and Novel Drugs, Spring 2016
Author(s)
Shabab, Mohammed
Alternative Title
Peptides as Biological Signaling Molecules and Novel Drugs
Date Issued
June 2016
Abstract
How do we sense hunger? How do we sense pain? What causes growth in our bodies? How are we protected from pathogens? The answer to many of these questions involves small polymers of amino acids known as peptides. Peptides are broadly used as signal molecules for intercellular communication in prokaryotes, plants, fungi, and animals. Peptide signals in animals include vast numbers of peptide hormones, growth factors and neuropeptides. In this course, we will learn about molecular bases of peptide signaling. In addition, peptides potentially can be used as potent broad-spectrum antibiotics and hence might define novel therapeutic agents. This course is one of many Advanced Undergraduate Seminars offered by the Biology Department at MIT. These seminars are tailored for students with an interest in using primary research literature to discuss and learn about current biological research in a highly interactive setting. Many instructors of the Advanced Undergraduate Seminars are postdoctoral scientists with a strong interest in teaching.
Subjects
peptides
signal molecules
intercellular communication
peptide hormones
growth factors
neuropeptides
antimicrobial peptides (AMPs)
defensins
biotic interactions
Peptide transporters
epidermal growth factors (EGFs)
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Biology
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