This course provides students in Biochemistry with a thorough background in basic concepts of modern biochemistry. There is a strong focus on the theoretical background of modern experimental approaches in biochemical research, ranging from biophysics to optogenetics. Different experimental systems will be discussed, accompanied by a strong numerical component. 

There are normally 3 hours of contact on Mondays, as arranged.

None

The course will be assessed by a 2-hour examination (70%) and one in-course assessment consisting of a set exercise with a strong numerical/quantitative component that will be in the form of a multi-part problem solving question (30%).

This course aims to: 

■ provide students in Biochemistry with a thorough background in basic concepts in modern biochemistry; 

■ provide a detailed theoretical background, and containing a strong numerical component.

Biochemistry is a quantitative science; this course should reinforce this view and develop your skills in this regard. 

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

■ Plot graphs and handle data sets, and calculate key biochemical parameters; 

■ Relate basic organic chemistry and bonding to biochemical processes; 

■ Critically assess key aspects of thermodynamics and energetics and how they relate to biochemistry; 

■ Evaluate present models of plasma membrane organisation and function; 

■ Evaluate binding mechanisms and enzyme kinetics; 

■ Critically assess the power of and theoretical basis of modern biophysical approaches; 

■ Formulate how protein:protein interactions can be identified and quantified, both in vivo and in vitro; 

■ Critically assess the power of bioinformatics and proteomics, with a clear assessment of the technology and limitations of the approaches.