Biochemistry, 15 Credits

Contents

In all cells a large number of processes occur continuously, such as conversion of the food we eat to a useable form of chemical energy or the use of genetic information. To understand these processes it is necessary to have basic knowledge of cell organisation and the biomolecules involved. This course will give a thorough description of cell architecture as well as of proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates and membranes structure and function. The central metabolic processes, such as energy conversion through glycolysis, citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, will also be discussed in detail. The course also covers the molecular mechanisms involved in the use and transfer of genetic information.
The experimental part of the course, illustrates central parts of the theory and comprise classical biochemical techniques. Practicals include isolation of proteins and nucleic acids, characterisation and analysis of proteins, study of carbohydrate metabolism and energy conversion in a cellular system and cloning and expression of genetic information.

Expected learning outcomes

After completing the course, students should be able to:

• Describe different types of cell morphology and organelles and cell component function from a biochemical perspective
• Describe the molecular and chemical environment in the cell
• Describe the structure and properties of single biomolecules, such as nitrogen bases, amino acids, lipids, fatty acids and carbohydrates
• Describe the structure and function of biomolecules, such as proteins, nucleic acids and biological membranes as well discuss the relationship between molecular structure and their biological function
• Enzymes explain the function and regulation of their activity
• Describe the methods of separation and analysis of proteins
• Describe the energy metabolism under anaerobic and aerobic conditions, primarily by anabolic and catabolic metabolism of carbohydrates and fats and their connection to energy production and consumption.
• Describe the parts of the amino acid and nucleotide metabolism
• Describe information transmission three processes; DNA replication, transcription (RNA synthesis) and translation

(Synthesis of protein)

• Understand what post-translational modification and transport (Protein targetting) of proteins means
• Manage the laboratory equipment available on a typical biochemical laboratory, such as pipettes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, pH meters, scales.
• Implement separation of proteins as well as perform basic protein analysis
• Compile and evaluate obtained experimental results
• The results obtained, both in writing and speech.

Required Knowledge

University: Fundamentals of Chemistry (15 credits, 5KE016), or the equivalent.
Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English 6/B. 
Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

The course consists of lectures, group exercises, demonstrations and laboratory exercises. The labs associated with group exercises are compulsory.

Examination modes

The examination is done through a written exam (theoretical part), partly through oral and/or written presentation of laboratory work. In a written exam is one of the grades Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Credit (4) or Pass with Distinction (5). On the grades given are Fail (U) or Pass (G). On the whole course the grades Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Credit (4) or Pass with Distinction (5). To pass the course requires that all examinations and obligatory tasks are approved. The rating is a summary assessment of the results of the examinations of different parts, and only after all mandatory elements are approved. Those who passed an examination cannot retake the test for higher grade.
A student who has taken two examinations in a course or part of a course, has the right to have another examiner appointed, unless there are specific reasons against it (HF 6 Chap. 22 §). Requests for new examiners are made to the board of the Department of Chemistry.

Examiners may decide to deviate from the modes of assessment in the course syllabus. Individual adaption of modes of assessment must give due consideration to the student's needs. The adaption of modes of assessment must remain within the framework of the intended learning outcomes in the course syllabus. Students who require an adapted examination must submit a request to the department holding the course no later than 10 days before the examination. The examiner decides on the adaption of the examination, after which the student will be notified.

Accreditation is always examined individually (see the University's set of rules and the transfer of credits).

Other regulations

In the event that the syllabus ceases to apply or undergoes major changes, students are guaranteed at least three examinations (including the regular examination opportunity) according to the regulations in the syllabus that the student was originally registered on for a period of a maximum of two years from the time that the previous syllabus ceased to apply or that the course ended.