Professor Saltzman talks about cell communication, specifically ligand-receptor interactions that are important in maintaining homeostasis in the body. Different types of receptors and ligands, the nature of their interactions and ways to apply this into developing drugs are discussed (eg. Aldopa, Taximofen, beta-blockers). Next, Professor Saltzman talks about kinases, phosphatases, cyclic AMP and the mechanism of switching protein states. Three categories of cell communication signals are introduced: autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine. Finally, an example of cell communication using regulation/response to blood sugar level is presented.

1. What Is Biomedical Engineering?
2. What Is Biomedical Engineering? (cont.)
3. Genetic Engineering
4. Genetic Engineering (cont.)
5. Cell Culture Engineering
6. Cell Culture Engineering (cont.)
7. Cell Communication and Immunology
8. Cell Communication and Immunology (cont.)
9. Biomolecular Engineering: Engineering of Immunity
10. Biomolecular Engineering: Engineering of Immunity (cont.)
11. Biomolecular Engineering: General Concepts
12. Biomolecular Engineering: General Concepts (cont.)
13. Cardiovascular Physiology
14. Cardiovascular Physiology (cont.)
15. Cardiovascular Physiology (cont.)
16. Renal Physiology
17. Renal Physiology (cont.)
18. Biomechanics and Orthopedics
19. Biomechanics and Orthopedics (cont.)
20. Bioimaging
21. Bioimaging (cont.)
22. Tissue Engineering
23. Tissue Engineering (cont.)
24. Biomedical Engineers and Cancer
25. Biomedical Engineers and Artificial Organs

The course covers basic concepts of biomedical engineering and their connection with the spectrum of human activity. It serves as an introduction to the fundamental science and engineering on which biomedical engineering is based. Case studies of drugs and medical products illustrate the product development-product testing cycle, patent protection, and FDA approval. It is designed for science and non-science majors.