BIOL 2550 - Evolutionary Medicine

Prerequisite: BIOL 1121 or BIOL 1125 or BIOL 2253 or BIOL 2254. This course presents an evolutionary framework for understanding human health and disease. Evolutionary theory is central to understanding biological processes. Lectures will address issues of disease and public health vulnerabilities through the perspective of evolutionary adaptation during human history. Topics include evolutionary theory, human evolution, the molecular basis of inheritance, genetic variation, development and genetic disorders, parasites and disease, cancer, nutrition, and metabolic adaptation. Through lectures, discussion, and study materials we will utilize an evolutionary approach to understanding human health challenges. 3 credits.