Course Description:
This is an introductory course in biochemistry which aims to bridge the gap between chemistry and biology by exploring the molecular basis of life. The core objectives are to understand the structure, function, and regulation of major biomolecules, as well as the fundamental metabolic pathways that sustain living organisms.
The primary objectives of the biochemistry course:
1. Understanding Biomolecule Structure and Function
? Amino Acids and Proteins: Describe the structures, properties, and functions of the 20 amino acids, as well as the four levels of protein structure (primary, secondary, tertiary, quaternary).
? Enzymes: Explain the mechanisms of enzyme catalysis, enzyme kinetics (e.g., Michaelis-Menten), and the factors affecting enzyme activity, including regulation and inhibition.
? Carbohydrates and Lipids: Identify the structures and biological roles of monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides, fatty acids, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
2. Metabolism and Bioenergetics
? Metabolic Pathways: Characterize major catabolic and anabolic pathways, including glycolysis, the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), oxidative phosphorylation, and fatty acid oxidation.
? Energy Transformation: Understand the principles of bioenergetics, including ATP production, electron transfer, and the coupling of endergonic and exergonic reactions.
? Regulation: Analyze how metabolic pathways are regulated and integrated within the cell.
3. Cellular and Physical Principles
? Water and pH: Describe the physical properties of water, the importance of hydrogen bonds, and the role of buffers in maintaining pH in biological systems.
? Cellular Organization: Identify the major components of the cell, such as organelles and membranes, and their roles in metabolic processes.
4. Technical and Analytical Skills
? Laboratory Techniques: Gain familiarity with standard laboratory methods, such as spectrophotometry, electrophoresis, and chromatography.
? Data Analysis: Interpret biochemical data and apply critical thinking to analyze experimental results.
? Scientific Literacy: Communicate scientific information effectively and understand the relevance of biochemistry to health and disease.