Introductory Biology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

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_7.016 Introductory Biology_ provides an introduction to fundamental principles of biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetics for understanding the functions of living systems. Taught for the first time in Fall 2013, this course covers examples of the use of chemical biology and twenty-first-century molecular genetics in understanding human health and therapeutic intervention. The MIT Biology Department Introductory Biology courses [7.012](/courses/7-012-introduction-to-biology-fall-2004/), [7.013](/courses/7-013-introductory-biology-spring-2013/), [7.014](/courses/7-014-introductory-biology-spring-2005/), 7.015, and [7.016](/courses/7-016-introductory-biology-fall-2018) all cover the same core material, which includes the fundamental principles of biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and cell biology. Biological function at the molecular level is particularly emphasized and covers the structure and regulation of genes, as well as the structure and synthesis of proteins, how these molecules are integrated into cells, and how these cells are integrated into multicellular systems and organisms. In addition, each version of the subject has its own distinctive material.

Syllabus

1. Introduction, Course Organization of MIT 7.016 Introductory Biology, Fall 2018.
2. Chemical Bonding and Molecular Interactions; Lipids and Membranes.
3. Structures of Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins.
4. Enzymes & Metabolism.
5. Carbohydrates and Glycoproteins.
6. Nucleic Acids.
7. Replication.
8. Transcription.
9. Chromatin Remodeling and Splicing.
10. Translation.
11. Cells, the Simplest Functional Units.
12. Genetics 1 – Cell Division & Segregating Genetic Material.
13. Genetics 2 – Rules of Inheritance.
14. Genetics 3 – Linkage, Crossing Over.
15. Genetics 4 – The power of model organisms in biological discovery.
16. Recombinant DNA, Cloning, & Editing.
17. Genomes and DNA Sequencing.
18. SNPs & Human genetics.
19. Cell Trafficking and Protein Localization.
20. Cell Signaling 1 – Overview.
21. Cell Signaling 2 – Examples.
22. Neurons, Action Potential, & Optogenetics.
23. Cell Cycle and Checkpoints.
24. Stem Cells, Apoptosis, & Tissue Homeostasis.
25. Cancer 1.
26. Cancer 2.
27. Visualizing Life – Dyes and Stains.
28. Visualizing Life - Fluorescent Proteins.
29. Cell Imaging Techniques.
30. Immunology 1 – Diversity, Specificity, & B cells.
31. Immunology 2 – Memory, T cells, & Autoimmunity.
32. Infectious Disease, Viruses, and Bacteria.
33. Bacteria and Antibiotic Resistance.
34. Viruses and Anti-Viral Resistance.
35. Reproductive Cloning and Embryonic Stem Cells.

Taught by

Prof. Barbara Imperiali , Prof. Adam Martin and Dr. Diviya Ray

Reviews

5.0 rating, based on 7 Class Central reviews

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Mohammed Faizan Shaikh

MIT’s Introductory Biology course via OpenCourseWare is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in life sciences. It provides a thorough grounding in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and cell biology, while also connecting these…

MIT’s Introductory Biology course via OpenCourseWare is an excellent starting point for anyone interested in life sciences. It provides a thorough grounding in biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, and cell biology, while also connecting these concepts to real-world applications in human health and disease. The course is designed not just to teach facts but to train students to think like scientists—hypothesizing, analyzing, and solving biological problems. Professors emphasize fairness in exams and use interactive methods such as clicker questions and recitations to make large lectures engaging. With no prerequisites, it is accessible to all learners and serves as a gateway to advanced biology courses and research opportunities. Students often describe it as challenging yet rewarding, appreciating its balance of rigor and relevance. Overall, it stands out as a comprehensive, problem-solving oriented introduction to biology that prepares learners for careers in medicine, neuroscience, biotechnology, and beyond.
Saad Saddique

This biology course has been a well-structured and engaging learning experience. The instructor demonstrates strong command of the subject matter, presenting complex concepts in a clear, organized manner that makes them accessible to students at dif…

This biology course has been a well-structured and engaging learning experience. The instructor demonstrates strong command of the subject matter, presenting complex concepts in a clear, organized manner that makes them accessible to students at different levels. Lectures are paced thoughtfully, balancing theory with practical examples and real-world applications that reinforce understanding.

The instructor is approachable and responsive, encouraging questions and creating a comfortable environment for discussion. Course materials are relevant and well-organized, and assessments align closely with what was taught, making expectations clear throughout the term.

A few areas could enhance the experience further, such as incorporating more hands-on lab sessions or interactive activities to complement the lecture-based instruction. Overall, this has been a valuable and rewarding class that has strengthened my understanding of biological concepts, and I would recommend it to other students seeking a solid foundation in the subject.
Nathan Coutinho

I really enjoyed this course. The content was well-organized, easy to understand, and explained the topic in a clear and engaging way. It was informative without feeling overwhelming, and I learned several new concepts that I can apply in the future. Overall, it's a great course for beginners as well as anyone looking to build a solid foundation, and I would definitely recommend it to others.
Muhammed Ahmed

This course provides a clear and well-structured introduction to biology. The lectures are easy to follow, and complex concepts are explained in a simple and engaging way. I especially appreciated how the course connects fundamental biological principles to real-world applications. The materials are comprehensive, making it suitable for both beginners and those looking to refresh their knowledge. Overall, it is an excellent resource for anyone interested in building a strong foundation in biology.
ISMAIL BERKIA

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Mphutlane Thabo
1

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BISWAJIT BHUYAN
1

THE COURS WAS FANTASTIC , GOT TO LEARN FUNDAMENTALS AND ADVANCE BIOCHEMISTRY. WILL RECEMMOND IT TO MY FRIENDS