The course provides an introduction to Biological Chemistry which includes the study of the basic chemical processes that underlie life, from molecule to organism. The course is divided into four themes/modules: Sports and Health Sciences, Modern Forensic Medicine, Medicines of the Future and Plant and Forest Biotechnology. Current and central issues are examined in each theme. Within the theme of Sports and Health Sciences the following questions are considered: What happens in the body during training? What chemical and molecular biological reactions occur in muscle and other tissues in response to physical activity and repeated training? How is the effect of physical activity influenced by diet and specific nutrients? How can the effect of physical activity be measured? Within the theme of Modern Forensic Medicine the following questions are considered: What different molecular biological/chemical techniques are used today for tracing criminals by means of the analysis of fingerprints, bodily fluids, cells, narcotics etc? How reliable are the evidence produced by such techniques? Within the theme of Modern Medicines we consider how basic molecular and chemical knowledge and techniques can be applied to solve medical problems. The following questions are considered: What is the significance of the structure and folding of proteins for the development of disease? Is it possible using molecular/chemical techniques to change the properties of bacteria so that they lose their ability to generate disease? Can the medicines of the future be extracted from living organisms in the North Sea? How can biologically active molecules that can be used to treat different illnesses be synthesised? Modern plant breeding is considered within the theme of Plant and Forest Biotechnology. Among other things the following questions are considered: Can modern technology help to create more environmentally friendly forestry and agricultural industries? Can genetically modified plants and trees provide better yields? The issues considered in these four themes are closely connected to the extensive and internationally renowned research carried out within the area of Biological Chemistry at Umeå University. In each theme there is an introduction to theory; planning and implementation of different experiments and analysis, evaluation and presentation of results obtained. Powerful techniques for chemical analysis as well as statistical and chemometric methods will be used to answer the issues raised. An introduction to the history and theory of science is also included in the course.
Prerequests: Chemistry A, Physics A, Mathematics C, English B. The course is given in english if foreign students participate.
This course contains occasions that are included in a degree programme at Umeå university and applies only to those of you who are admitted to the programme. You will receive information about application times and what applies to you from your institution.
