| Unit name | Biochemistry 1G General Biochemistry at a Cellular and Molecular Level |
|---|---|
| Unit code | BIOC10100 |
| Credit points | 40 |
| Level of study | C/4 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 4 (weeks 1-24) |
| Unit director | Dr. Gus Cameron |
| Open unit status | Not open |
| Pre-requisites |
A-level Chemistry |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Biochemistry |
| Faculty | Faculty of Life Sciences |
This unit comprises around 70 lectures and concentrates initially on the chemical and molecular basis of biological structure. Lectures cover the structure and function of biologically important building blocks and small molecules, and the structural features of proteins, nucleic acids and polysaccharides. Other topics covered in the first term include protein structure and function, enzyme reaction mechanisms, enzyme kinetics, DNA replication and transcription, and an introduction to basic bioenergetics and metabolic pathways. Lectures in the second term encompass membrane structure and function, membrane transport, oxidative phosphorylation and photoynthesis. Metabolic cycles are discussed in greater depth, concentrating on their control and the role of hormones and secondary messengers as signalling systems. In addition, protein synthesis and DNA recombinant technology are covered, as are the biochemistry of development, the cell cycle, cell division and concepts of cancer. The unit is supported by mandatory laboratory classes and tutorials.
