BIOL 108 - Bodies on Fire

Complex cascades of inflammation orchestrate our bodies’ response to our environment. Inflammation (derived from ignition; setting alight) resolves infections, heals wounds, and restores internal balance to the body. However, these same inflammatory responses, when uncontrolled, can destroy the body with frightening rapidity. Diabetes, obesity, cancer, cardiovascular disease, allergies and asthma, neuro-degenerative conditions, pain and depression are some of the most pervasive and confounding health challenges that confront the global population today. Chronic inflammation underlies all of these diverse pathologies. In this course, you will be introduced to the beautifully elaborate world of the immune system through lectures, discussions and critical reading of scientific and popular texts on the global pandemic of inflammatory non-communicable diseases. You will have opportunities to share ideas through discussion, reflective and analytical writing, and exploration of metaphors of illness and wellness. Three lecture hours each week. Offered occasionally. (4 Credits)