Analysis of Biological Networks
MIT OpenCourseWare offers this advanced biological engineering course examining complex biological processes across molecular, cellular, extracellular, and organ levels. The curriculum covers biochemical and biophysical principles governing processes such as chemotaxis, nitrogen fixation into organic molecules, growth factor and hormone signaling cascades, and DNA damage response pathways leading to cell death. Students study how resource availability or stimuli switch biochemical pathways on and off, with emphasis on dynamic, quantitative views of multiple interacting pathways as networks. Course materials include lecture notes and readings drawn from MIT's BE.440 curriculum. Student work culminates in preparing an original grant application proposal in a biological networks research area, mirroring the process working scientists use to secure funding. The course is free to audit through MIT OpenCourseWare, with no certificate offered.