Define the abnormality, indicate who is affected, is it a plant?

Theme: Cellular abnormalities
Background: Cells are dynamic structures that depend on the integrity of various structures
(e.g., the membrane, transmembrane proteins, organelles in eukaryotes) and key anabolic and catabolic processes/chemical reactions that occur in the cytosol and various organelles (e.g., mitochondria, lysosomes, chloroplasts) for their overall survival. When the integrity of key components of structures/organelles within and around a cell fails and/or chemical processes are impaired a spectrum of pathologies, and possibly death, may result.

Task: For assignment 2, you will have the opportunity to research and summarize a cellular
pathology that results from an impairment in a cellular structure (e.g., protein, organelle) and
describe the ensuing pathology. Below, several suggestions are provided. If you have an
alternative topic that interests you (that is not listed below), please email with your idea.

What to address: In approximately 2 pages, you should include
– (½ to ¾ page) A description of the pathology
o Define the abnormality, indicate who is affected, is it a plant? An animal (e.g.,
dog, human, deer)? Prokaryote (e.g., bacteria, archaea)?
– If the pathology affects animals, how many are affected globally? In the US? Is there a specific age group?
o What are the symptoms? When do the symptoms arise? How is the pathology
diagnosed (if it affects eukaryotes)?
– (½ to ¾ page) How the pathology was discovered
o Descriptions of discovery must include summary of the primary literature, for
example an experiment or case study
– (½ page) A conclusion
o Is the pathology relatively new or is it well known?
o What’s next to learn about the pathology?

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