Cellular Biochemistry is a five-week course that focuses on the structure and function of cells and tissues, and how nutrition and key homeostatic hormones influence how organs metabolize carbohydrates and lipids. In addition to learning about the regulatory features of energy metabolism in healthy individuals, students also learn how dysregulation of energy metabolism underlies obesity, metabolic syndrome, and disturbances in glucose metabolism including diabetes. This course also introduces regional anatomy and the basic principles of pharmacology.

Molecular Genetics is a five-week course that provides a background in metabolism of small molecules, genetic contributors to disease, and cellular pathways governing macromolecular precursor synthesis and breakdown. Basic processes of DNA, genome, and chromosome metabolism are integrated with key principles of inherited and spontaneous genetic disorders. Gene expression, developmental genetics, population genetics, infectious agents, and molecular technologies are explained to provide a framework for understanding the DNA-based contributions to human disease.

Principles of Immunology is a five-week course that provides a fundamental understanding of the immune system. The course integrates immunology with microbiology and includes relevant aspects of pharmacology and pathology. The course covers soluble mediators, cells, and organs of the immune system and how these elements work together to prevent infection. Students examine how immune system dysfunction results in autoimmune diseases and allergies, and acquire the necessary foundational knowledge of bacteriology, virology, mycology, and parasitology to understand how infectious microbes cause organ-specific and systemic diseases.

The anatomy and physiology course series will provide a fundamental understanding of each of the organ systems. This course will focus on normal physiology and anatomy using pathology to highlight disease states providing relevance to medicine. The course builds from the cellular level to organ systems level and begins to address the complexity seen in the human body. This course will be taught using a variety of teaching modalities including active learning sessions, laboratories, and didactic lectures.

The anatomy and physiology course series will provide a fundamental understanding of each of the organ systems. This course will focus on normal physiology and anatomy using pathology to highlight disease states providing relevance to medicine. The course builds from the cellular level to organ systems level and begins to address the complexity seen in the human body. This course will be taught using a variety of teaching modalities including active learning sessions, laboratories, and didactic lectures.

The anatomy and physiology course series will provide a fundamental understanding of each of the organ systems. This course will focus on normal physiology and anatomy using pathology to highlight disease states providing relevance to medicine. The course builds from the cellular level to organ systems level and begins to address the complexity seen in the human body. This course will be taught using a variety of teaching modalities including active learning sessions, laboratories, and didactic lectures.

The anatomy and physiology course series will provide a fundamental understanding of each of the organ systems. This course will focus on normal physiology and anatomy using pathology to highlight disease states providing relevance to medicine. The course builds from the cellular level to organ systems level and begins to address the complexity seen in the human body. This course will be taught using a variety of teaching modalities including active learning sessions, laboratories, and didactic lectures.

Hematology and Oncology provides a fundamental understanding of hematological and tumor biology basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to clinical hematology, hematological oncology, and cancer. The four-week course focuses on the mechanistic and pathophysiological aspects of blood physiology and neoplasia using clinical examples of the various anemias, leukemias, lymphomas, and selected solid tumors. An overview of basic tumor pathology includes development and progression of benign and malignant disease, grading and staging of tumors, carcinogenesis, and metastasis. The course covers the biological mechanisms underlying cellular growth control, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, tumor immunology, and the roles of oncogenes and tumor suppressor proteins. The pharmacology of major therapeutic agents used to treat hematological disorders and antineoplastic agents is described. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications. After completing this course, medical students are able to apply the general concepts of tumor biology and cancer therapeutics to specific neoplastic diseases they encounter in future organ-based courses.

Musculoskeletal system provides a fundamental understanding of musculoskeletal basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the musculoskeletal system and integument including embryology, anatomy, histology, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, microbiology, immunology, pathology, pharmacology, and therapeutics. Human gross anatomical dissection is an integral component of the course that facilitates the students understanding of anatomical structure/function relationships. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications. Students gain additional experience in teaching their peers in this course.

Nervous System provides a fundamental understanding of neurological basic science principles and introduction to the application of these principles to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and processes of the nervous system, including embryology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and immunology, and relates these to pathologies of the nervous system. The course explores the organization, development, and physiology of the human central nervous system in relation to the essential principles of neurological function. This exploration extends from the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neuronal signaling to the organization and function of sensory and motor systems and of higher order, integrative systems. The course provides an understanding of the neural and vascular anatomy of the human brain and spinal cord that is sufficient for localizing lesions within the central nervous system and that supports understanding and performing an effective neurological examination. The course equips students to interpret impairments of sensation, motor function, and cognition that accompany neurological injury and disease, as well as to develop and test mechanistic hypotheses to explain clinical signs and symptoms. The course provides an introduction to pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for neurological disorders, as well as to basic principles of neuropathology and neuroradiology. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Cardiovascular System provides a fundamental understanding of cardiovascular basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to cardiovascular diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the cardiovascular system, including an integrated presentation of embryology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and immunology, and their relation to pathologies of the cardiovascular system. Woven through these topics is the practical introduction to key elements of the physical examination of the heart, and basic electrocardiogram interpretation. In addition, current evidence supporting methods of risk assessment, diagnostic testing, and pharmacologic prevention and management of cardiovascular disease are examined. Clinical scenarios such as shock and bradycardia are presented in high fidelity simulation. In addition, clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format, including valvular heart disease, atherosclerosis, acute myocardial infarction, congenital heart defect, congestive heart failure, and arrhythmias, The simulations and team-based learning cases provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Pulmonary System provides a fundamental understanding of pulmonary basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to pulmonary diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the pulmonary system including embryology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and immunology, and relating these to pathologies of the pulmonary system. The course starts with detailed and complete explanations of the physiological mechanisms that underlie the act of breathing, followed by exploration of the developmental anatomy of the lung, the gross anatomy of the upper and lower respiratory tract. Clinical problems and pulmonary function test data is examined at the molecular level, the level of the alveolus, the chest wall, and the pulmonary circulation. The course covers pathophysiological changes in lung function and the spectrum of lung disorders commonly seen in the human population. Ventilation-perfusion inequality and gas exchange defects are presented in team based learning exercises. The neurological basis of ventilatory control is investigated, and the role of central and peripheral chemoreceptors in ventilatory drive are uncovered, including a detailed overview of the biochemistry of hydrogen buffering and the mixed physiological buffering mechanisms of the blood. The clinical conditions of sleep apnea and related disorders, obstructive lung disease, restrictive lung disease, neoplastic lung disease, immune mediated hemorrhage syndromes, bacterial and viral bronchitis, fungal and mycoplasma atypical pneumonia, atelectasis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pleural disease, acute lung injury and failing heart/pulmonary vascular disease are covered. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Renal and Genitourinary System provides a fundamental understanding of renal and genitourinary basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to renal and genitourinary diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the renal and genitourinary system including anatomy, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, microbiology, immunology, pathology, pharmacology and therapeutics, and preventive medicine. The course includes the structure and function of the kidneys, the regulation of fluids and electrolytes, and the common imbalances of renal physiology that result in disease. Working in groups, students will study a number of renal disorders in a team-based learning format including diabetic nephropathy, hypokalemia, renal cancer, transport disorders, and graft vs. host disease following renal transplantation. The course covers the pathophysiology of electrolyte disorders, acid-base disorders, glomerular disease, tubulo-interstitial disease, acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, renal replacement therapies, and urology. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Gastrointestinal System provides a fundamental understanding of gastrointestinal basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to gastrointestinal diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the gastrointestinal system including physiology, pharmacology, anatomy, histology, pathology, mucosal immunology, nutrition, biochemistry, microbiology, developmental biology and neuroscience and relating these to pathologies of the gastrointestinal system. The course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal system and its associated accessory organs to: (1) diagnose, effectively treat and manage gastrointestinal-related illnesses, (2) address patient issues and concerns regarding a gastrointestinal complaint and (3) understand the various gastrointestinal-related disorders associated with pediatric and geriatric patients. Clinical sciences and skills include discussion of the common causes of gastrointestinal diseases and disorders, collecting a relevant history based on an abdominal complaint and the appropriate evaluation and treatment of patients with common gastrointestinal abnormalities. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Endocrinology and Reproduction Systems provides a fundamental understanding of classic endocrinology, followed by the basic principles and pathologies specific to men and women, including the complexities of pregnancy. Clinical content is woven throughout the course to reinforce the basic science concepts as they relate to clinical application(s), and at the end of each week a highly integrated clinical case is presented in team-based learning format. The course is subdivided into two major sections. The first half of the course concentrates on classic endocrinology and includes the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, thyroid function, calcium-phosphate homeostasis, and the adrenal gland. The second half focuses on the gender-specific differences and/or similarities between the reproductive systems of men and women. Multiple events illustrate the 'grey areas' of reproductive health to highlight the ethical, societal and political challenges evident in this area of medicine. The course concludes with the topic of human sexuality, including interactive discussions about the societal and ethical responsibilities (and challenges) that the modern clinician may face when treating members of the straight and LGBT communities.

Behavioral Medicine extends and deepens the understanding of neurological basic science principles provided in Nervous System. The four-week course covers human development as it relates to normal and abnormal intellectual development and psychological well-being, and explores the biopsychosocial model, including the ability to describe and discuss the mechanisms, clinical presentation, and treatment of common psychiatric disorders (e.g., anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, psychoses, compulsive disorders, and personality disorders). In conjunction with the Profession of Medicine course, students develop familiarity with the foundations of effective mental status- and psychiatric examinations, as well as psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. The course covers the indications and pharmacological profiles of medications that are commonly used to treat psychiatric disorders, introduces nonpharmacological treatments for psychiatric disorders, and introduces students to the roles and importance of multi-disciplinary teams in neurological and psychiatric rehabilitation. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Fundamentals of Biomedical Sciences I is a four-week course that provides a fundamental understanding of the role of cells within the body, regulation of cellular growth and early development, and the regulation of energy metabolism. Cellular biochemistry and basic anatomical structure are introduced emphasizing the role of cells as the basic building blocks in a hierarchal system that increases in complexity as cells form tissues, organs, and organ systems. The influence nutrition and physiological state have on macronutrient metabolism is covered with special emphasis on the integration of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism in different organ systems. The consequences of defective glucose metabolism serves as a major clinical theme throughout the course.

Fundamentals of Biomedical Sciences II is a four-week course that provides a fundamental understanding of medical biochemistry relevant to the metabolism of macromolecular precursors and the genetic basis of disease. Medically-important metabolism of amino acids, lipids, and nucleotides, will be covered in the context of disease. Clinical disorders that have a genetic component will be covered, while a molecular framework is built for understanding disease etiology, modern diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. An overview of the basic genetics of medically important infectious agents, gene regulation, and population genetics will provide a background on the genetic underpinnings of human disease.

Musculoskeletal system provides a fundamental understanding of musculoskeletal basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the musculoskeletal system and integument including embryology, anatomy, histology, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, microbiology, immunology, pathology, pharmacology, and therapeutics. Human gross anatomical dissection is an integral component of the course that facilitates the students understanding of anatomical structure/function relationships. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications. Students gain additional experience in teaching their peers in this course.

Foundations of Immunology and Infectious Disease provides a fundamental understanding of the principles of immunology and infectious disease, and the application of this knowledge to immunologic, infectious, and rheumatologic diseases. The five-week course integrates immunology through the learning of microbiology and includes relevant aspects of anatomy, histology, pharmacology, and pathology. Specifically, students: (1) learn about the soluble mediators, cells, and organs of the immune system and how these elements work together to prevent infection; (2) examine how the immune system causes and contributes to diseases such as autoimmunity, allergy, and chronic inflammatory diseases; and (3) acquire the necessary foundational knowledge of virology, mycology, parasitology, and bacteriology to understand how infectious microbes cause organ-specific and systemic diseases. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications. After completing this course, medical students are able to apply the general concepts of immunology and infectious disease to specific diseases they encounter in future organ-based courses.

Hematology and Oncology provides a fundamental understanding of hematological and tumor biology basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to clinical hematology, hematological oncology, and cancer. The four-week course focuses on the mechanistic and pathophysiological aspects of blood physiology and neoplasia using clinical examples of the various anemias, leukemias, lymphomas, and selected solid tumors. An overview of basic tumor pathology includes development and progression of benign and malignant disease, grading and staging of tumors, carcinogenesis, and metastasis. The course covers the biological mechanisms underlying cellular growth control, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, tumor immunology, and the roles of oncogenes and tumor suppressor proteins. The pharmacology of major therapeutic agents used to treat hematological disorders and antineoplastic agents is described. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications. After completing this course, medical students are able to apply the general concepts of tumor biology and cancer therapeutics to specific neoplastic diseases they encounter in future organ-based courses.

Cardiovascular System provides a fundamental understanding of cardiovascular basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to cardiovascular diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the cardiovascular system, including an integrated presentation of embryology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and immunology, and their relation to pathologies of the cardiovascular system. Woven through these topics is the practical introduction to key elements of the physical examination of the heart, and basic electrocardiogram interpretation. In addition, current evidence supporting methods of risk assessment, diagnostic testing, and pharmacologic prevention and management of cardiovascular disease are examined. Clinical scenarios such as shock and bradycardia are presented in high fidelity simulation. In addition, clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format, including valvular heart disease, atherosclerosis, acute myocardial infarction, congenital heart defect, congestive heart failure, and arrhythmias, The simulations and team-based learning cases provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Pulmonary System provides a fundamental understanding of pulmonary basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to pulmonary diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the pulmonary system including embryology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and immunology, and relating these to pathologies of the pulmonary system. The course starts with detailed and complete explanations of the physiological mechanisms that underlie the act of breathing, followed by exploration of the developmental anatomy of the lung, the gross anatomy of the upper and lower respiratory tract. Clinical problems and pulmonary function test data is examined at the molecular level, the level of the alveolus, the chest wall, and the pulmonary circulation. The course covers pathophysiological changes in lung function and the spectrum of lung disorders commonly seen in the human population. Ventilation-perfusion inequality and gas exchange defects are presented in team based learning exercises. The neurological basis of ventilatory control is investigated, and the role of central and peripheral chemoreceptors in ventilatory drive are uncovered, including a detailed overview of the biochemistry of hydrogen buffering and the mixed physiological buffering mechanisms of the blood. The clinical conditions of sleep apnea and related disorders, obstructive lung disease, restrictive lung disease, neoplastic lung disease, immune mediated hemorrhage syndromes, bacterial and viral bronchitis, fungal and mycoplasma atypical pneumonia, atelectasis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, pleural disease, acute lung injury and failing heart/pulmonary vascular disease are covered. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Renal and Genitourinary System provides a fundamental understanding of renal and genitourinary basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to renal and genitourinary diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the renal and genitourinary system including anatomy, biochemistry, genetics, physiology, microbiology, immunology, pathology, pharmacology and therapeutics, and preventive medicine. The course includes the structure and function of the kidneys, the regulation of fluids and electrolytes, and the common imbalances of renal physiology that result in disease. Working in groups, students will study a number of renal disorders in a team-based learning format including diabetic nephropathy, hypokalemia, renal cancer, transport disorders, and graft vs. host disease following renal transplantation. The course covers the pathophysiology of electrolyte disorders, acid-base disorders, glomerular disease, tubulo-interstitial disease, acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, renal replacement therapies, and urology. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Gastrointestinal System provides a fundamental understanding of gastrointestinal basic science principles, and the application of this knowledge to gastrointestinal diseases. The five-week course covers normal features and pathological processes of the gastrointestinal system including physiology, pharmacology, anatomy, histology, pathology, mucosal immunology, nutrition, biochemistry, microbiology, developmental biology and neuroscience and relating these to pathologies of the gastrointestinal system. The course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the diseases and disorders of the gastrointestinal system and its associated accessory organs to: (1) diagnose, effectively treat and manage gastrointestinal-related illnesses, (2) address patient issues and concerns regarding a gastrointestinal complaint and (3) understand the various gastrointestinal-related disorders associated with pediatric and geriatric patients. Clinical sciences and skills include discussion of the common causes of gastrointestinal diseases and disorders, collecting a relevant history based on an abdominal complaint and the appropriate evaluation and treatment of patients with common gastrointestinal abnormalities. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Endocrinology and Reproduction Systems provides a fundamental understanding of classic endocrinology, followed by the basic principles and pathologies specific to men and women, including the complexities of pregnancy. Clinical content is woven throughout the course to reinforce the basic science concepts as they relate to clinical application(s), and at the end of each week a highly integrated clinical case is presented in team-based learning format. The course is subdivided into two major sections. The first half of the course concentrates on classic endocrinology and includes the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, thyroid function, calcium-phosphate homeostasis, and the adrenal gland. The second half focuses on the gender-specific differences and/or similarities between the reproductive systems of men and women. Multiple events illustrate the 'grey areas' of reproductive health to highlight the ethical, societal and political challenges evident in this area of medicine. The course concludes with the topic of human sexuality, including interactive discussions about the societal and ethical responsibilities (and challenges) that the modern clinician may face when treating members of the straight and LGBT communities.

Nervous System provides a fundamental understanding of neurological basic science principles and introduction to the application of these principles to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases. The six-week course covers normal features and processes of the nervous system, including embryology, anatomy, physiology, microbiology, and immunology, and relates these to pathologies of the nervous system. The course explores the organization, development, and physiology of the human central nervous system in relation to the essential principles of neurological function. This exploration extends from the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neuronal signaling to the organization and function of sensory and motor systems and of higher order, integrative systems. The course provides an understanding of the neural and vascular anatomy of the human brain and spinal cord that is sufficient for localizing lesions within the central nervous system and that supports understanding and performing an effective neurological examination. The course equips students to interpret impairments of sensation, motor function, and cognition that accompany neurological injury and disease, as well as to develop and test mechanistic hypotheses to explain clinical signs and symptoms. The course provides an introduction to pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments for neurological disorders, as well as to basic principles of neuropathology and neuroradiology. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

Behavioral Medicine extends and deepens the understanding of neurological basic science principles provided in Nervous System. The four-week course covers human development as it relates to normal and abnormal intellectual development and psychological well-being, and explores the biopsychosocial model, including the ability to describe and discuss the mechanisms, clinical presentation, and treatment of common psychiatric disorders (e.g., anxiety, mood disorders, substance abuse, psychoses, compulsive disorders, and personality disorders). In conjunction with the Profession of Medicine course, students develop familiarity with the foundations of effective mental status- and psychiatric examinations, as well as psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. The course covers the indications and pharmacological profiles of medications that are commonly used to treat psychiatric disorders, introduces nonpharmacological treatments for psychiatric disorders, and introduces students to the roles and importance of multi-disciplinary teams in neurological and psychiatric rehabilitation. Clinical cases are presented in a team-based learning format to provide reinforcement of basic science concepts as they relate to clinical applications.

The Health Systems Science course provides a detailed exploration of the working of health systems and the multiple roles of physicians within them. The experience builds on the content from the previous longitudinal courses and the students experiences as part of the clinical team in their core clerkships. The course will consist of virtual didactics (both synchronous and asynchronous).

In this elective, students will develop an understanding of the gross anatomy of a designated body region through hands-on dissection. Additionally, students will utilize primary literature to create a case study presentation which connects a clinical case with the gross anatomy of the dissected region and other relevant interdisciplinary concepts from pharmacology, physiology, microbiology, histology, etc. On the final day of the elective, students will present the anatomical structures identified during the dissection and their case study to the instructor and other students enrolled in the elective.

Evaluation will be based on performance (ability to dissect the assigned region and apply gross anatomy knowledge through the development of a case study presentation), cooperative learning skills, interpersonal skills, and professionalism.

Total time expectation is 20-30 hours per week.

Students may develop an individualized research plan of their choice under the direction of a faculty member. Students should work with a faculty member to submit the form Elective Proposal to Educational Affairs at least eight weeks prior to the projected start date. This elective requires prior approval.

Students may develop an individualized course on a topic of their choice under the direction of a faculty member. Students should work with a faculty member to submit the form Elective Proposal to Educational Affairs at least eight weeks prior to the projected start date. This elective requires prior approval.

This elective is designed for medical students interested in biomedical education and those who view academic medicine and teaching as part of their career. Students will participate in scholarly projects in medical education with a faculty member(s) in the Department of Biomedical Sciences. Examples of scholarly projects may include, but are not limited to:
-Creating and facilitating a novel case- or team-based learning activity for use in the curriculum
-Creating a glass learning board video or a narrated-animated video for use in the curriculum
-Creating and directing a peer teaching activity
-Presenting a peer-reviewed publication at the medical education journal club
-Writing a review article in medical education
-Researching and writing NBME-style examination items
-Researching and writing course and event learning objectives
-Development of study guides or other materials to help students prepare for the USMLE step 1 exam
-Creating and administering a questionnaire and analyzing the results
-Developing rubrics and other assessment tools

Students will develop specific learning objectives and outcomes for the elective, based on the project proposed and in consultation with the faculty advisor(s).
Students must obtain approval from faculty advisor(s) prior to registering for this elective.