Leo M. Alves, Associate Professor, Manhattan College B.S., St. Norbert College, WI Ph.D., University of Chicago

Teaching Interests:
I have been a faculty member of the joined Biology Department of Manhattan College/College of Mount St. Vincent since 1978. During that time, I have taught General Biology (lecture and laboratory), Cell Physiology, Systemic Physiology, Molecular Biology, and several different biology courses for non-science majors. The topics I most enjoy teaching are molecular biology, plant physiology, enzyme allostery, cardiac function, pulmonary function, renal function, and evolution.

Other Professional Interests:
I have had a long-standing involvement in secondary school science curriculum development, especially the Advanced Placement Biology program. I have served in various capacities as part of the AP Biology Readings from 1986 to the present. During the 1999 and 2000 AP Biology Readings, I served as a Question Leader. In that capacity, I set the grading standards for one of the four free-response questions each year, and I oversaw the scoring of those questions for over 85,000 exam booklets. I have co-directed AP Biology summer institutes at Manhattan College and LaSalle University from 1987 to the present. I have also served as a consultant to the College Board for AP Biology during that time.

I was the recipient of the Advanced Placement Recognition Award, which was conferred by the Middle States Regional Assembly of the College Board in 1996.

In the past, my research interests have involved the study of the biosynthesis and the action of sesquiterpenoid stress metabolites (SSMs) in plants of the Solanaceae. SSMs such as phytuberin, lubimin, and rishitin are produced by potato tubers (Solanum tuberosum) in response to infection by the late-blight fungus Phytophthora infestans. These SSMs possess anti-microbial activity; thus, they may function as phytoalexins. I discovered that controlled atmospheres containing ethylene and oxygen amplify the levels of these compounds produced by potato. I have used this physiological response to elevate the concentration of a previously-unidentified SSM, which my colleagues and I then chemically characterized. This compound is acetyldehydrorishitinol.

Avocational Interests:
I was an avocational singer (bass section) with The Taghkanic Chorale http://taghkanicchorale.ontimeonline.com from 1992-2000. During that time I sang in the chorus in a performance of theVerdi Requiem at Carnegie Hall. My interests include classical music, jazz music, arboriculture, Scottish Terriers, cats, and wine.

Address:
Joined Biology Department
Manhattan College/College of Mount Saint Vincent
College of Mount Saint Vincent campus
6301 Riverdale Avenue
Riverdale, NY 10471-1093

Phone:718-405-3377 (voice mail)

Fax:718-405-3719

E-mail address:leo.alves@manhattan.edu

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