Biochemistry
Full course description
Biochemistry is considered the mother of all life sciences. Understanding biochemical principles will facilitate learning of more specialised life sciences such as molecular and cell biology. This course will present the essentials of biochemistry during 6 lectures and 10 tutorials. We will cover the structures, functions and interactions of biomacromolecules including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and DNA which are key molecules associated in life. We will further provide insight in the specificity and actions of enzymes, the biocatalysts of the cell. Additionally, we will explain metabolic pathways that result in the generation of ATP, the major energy source in life and how certain substances can interfere and lead to disease or death. Finally, we will discuss recent concepts of genome editing that revolutionise treatment of diseases by gene therapy.
Course objectives
At the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Communicate on fundamental principles governing structure, function, and interactions of biological molecules;
- Appreciate the science of biochemistry and its relevance to Health and Disease;
- Understand the roles of macromolecules such as proteins, lipids, polysaccharides, and DNA in living cells and relate to diseases such as hyperventilation, thrombosis and scurvy;
- Identify, explain, and discuss the basic principles of enzyme catalysis and inhibition;
- Enter advanced courses that require more detailed biochemistry knowledge and enroll to various Master programs in life sciences.
Prerequisites
- None
Co-requisites
- None
Recommended reading
- Biochemistry (9th ed. or later). ; Berg, J.M., Tymoczko, J.L., Gatto G.J., Stryer, L. ; W.H. Freeman and company. ISBN-10: 1-319-11465-2; ISBN-13: 978-1-319-11465-7;
- Biochemistry (6th ed. or later); Garrett R.H. and Grisham C.M. ; Cengage Learning. Student ed. ISBN: 978-1-305-57720-6; Loose-leaf ed. ISBN: 978-1-305-88604-9.
- N.M. Deckers
- L.J. Schurgers
- A. Jaminon
- S. Agten
- S.M. Agten
- A.M.G. Jaminon