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BIOCHEMISTRY 1

Module code: BI201
Credits: 5
Semester: 1
Department: BIOLOGY
International:
Coordinator: Dr Emmanuelle Graciet (BIOLOGY)

	Overview
	This module has a strong emphasis on proteins, the regulation of their activity and their participation in cellular processes. There is a particular focus on enzymes and essential metabolic pathways, which will be described in detail, but also presented within a physiological context. An effort is made to present simple experimental evidence to support essential concepts in order to introduce common techniques in the field of biochemistry. Practicals focus on developing data analysis skills, problem-solving, and writing skills. More specifically, the following topics are covered: (1) Introduction to biochemistry and a brief reminder of important notions related to proteins. (2) Enzyme kinetics, including enzyme inhibition and applications for drug design. (3) Basic concepts of metabolism and essential metabolic pathways for energy production, including glycolysis, citric acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation and photosynthesis. (4) Methods in biochemistry, including protein purification, monitoring enzyme activity, monitoring redox reactions.

Overview

This module has a strong emphasis on proteins, the regulation of their activity and their participation in cellular processes. There is a particular focus on enzymes and essential metabolic pathways, which will be described in detail, but also presented within a physiological context. An effort is made to present simple experimental evidence to support essential concepts in order to introduce common techniques in the field of biochemistry. Practicals focus on developing data analysis skills, problem-solving, and writing skills.

More specifically, the following topics are covered: (1) Introduction to biochemistry and a brief reminder of important notions related to proteins. (2) Enzyme kinetics, including enzyme inhibition and applications for drug design. (3) Basic concepts of metabolism and essential metabolic pathways for energy production, including glycolysis, citric acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation and photosynthesis. (4) Methods in biochemistry, including protein purification, monitoring enzyme activity, monitoring redox reactions.

	Learning Outcomes
	On successful completion of the module, students should be able to: Understand the importance of proteins and their regulation for the adequate functioning of a cell and an organism. Discuss how the physical and chemical properties of amino acids influence the properties and function of proteins in the cell. Describe how the physical and chemical characteristics of proteins can be used for their purification and to determine their structure. Understand that enzymes are dynamic molecules whose activity can be regulated. Explain how enzymes are regulated, using fundamental notions of enzyme kinetics. Describe in detail important metabolic pathways, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation and photosynthesis. Understand the regulation of these metabolic pathways and the connections that exist between them. Understand the relevance of these metabolic pathways to key cellular processes.

Learning Outcomes

Teaching & Learning methods

Assessment

	Autumn Supplementals/Resits
	Are supplemental/resit registrations permitted? Yes The University scheduled written exam may be re-taken in the Autumn. Continuous assessment mark is carried forward to the Autumn. University scheduled written examination (Autumn): 90 minutes, On-campus

	Pre-Requisites
	BI101, BI102 or equivalent

Timetable

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Courses / Module

BIOCHEMISTRY 1

Semester 1

Semester 2