Learning objectives
Objectives of the course: To show how important Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics are in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cell function. To describe the main metabolic pathways and the principal mechanisms of enzyme catalysis and bio-regulation. To provide the basis for a better understanding of integrated and complex biological phenomena.
Prerequisites
To have passed the exam of basic courses in Mathematics, Physics, General Chemistry. Organic Chemistry and, possibly, Physical Chemistry
Course unit content
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Protein Structure and Function. Enzymes: basic concepts and kinetics. Catalytic strategies. Regulatory strategies. Catalytic mechanisms representative of the various classes of enzymes. Glycolysis. The citric acid cycle. Oxidative phosphorylation. Fatty acids degradation. Amino acids degradation. The pentose phosphate pathway. Gluconeogenesis. Fatty acids biosynthesis. Amino acids biosynthesis. Nucleotide biosynthesis. The integration of metabolism and its overall regulation.
Full programme
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Bibliography
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J.M. Berg, J.L. Tymoczko, L. Stryer. W.H. Freeman and Company, NY.<br />
D.L. Nelson. M.M. Cox. Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry. W.H. Freeman and Company, NY.<br />
D. Voet, J.G. Voet, C.W.Pratt. Fundamentals of Biochemistry. John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Teaching methods
The exam will consist in a written test on at least three major topics and in an oral critical discussion of the same and, eventually, other topics.
Assessment methods and criteria
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Other information
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