Learning objectives
The course aims to provide the student with knwoledge about:
1 - the fundamental properties of biological molecole and macromolecules
2 - the processes of degradation and biosynthesis of the main classes of biomolecules, and of the mechanisms of the regulation of the metabolism.
Particular attention will be given to topics related to the field of veterinary medicine.
Prerequisites
It is required the exam of 'Chimica propedeutica biochimica'
Course unit content
Properties of biomolecules: carbohydrates, lipids, aminoacids and proteins. Biological membranes. Structure and function of proteins. Enzyme catalysis and kinetics.
Introduction to the metabolism: coenzymes, high energy bonds, redox potentials. Catabolism of glucose. Metabolism of glycogen. Gluconeogenesis. Tricarboxilic acids cicle and related rections. Electron transport, oxidative phosphorilation and respiratory control. Photosynthesis. Lipid metabolism: Fatty acids oxidation, keton bodies, fatty acids biosynthesi, cholesterol. Metabolim of aminoacids: transamination reactions, urea cycle, PLP-dependent reactions. Nucleotides metabolism: ex-novo purines and pyrimidine biosinthesis. Ruminal fermentations.
The flow of the genetic information: Nucleic acids: DNA and RNA. Genes, chromosomes and chromatin. Duplication and maintenance of genomic DNA. DNA transcription in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Regulation of gene expression in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Protein synthesis. The cell cycle.
Fundamentals of molecular biology: recombinant DNA and gene cloning. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR and RT-PCR), Southern and Northern blotting
Applications of the molecular diagnostics and of the recombinant biotechnologies to the diagnosis and prevention of diseases.
Full programme
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Bibliography
Nelson, D.L. e Cox, M.M. 'I principi di Biochimica di Lehninger', settima edizione, 2018, Zanichelli
Teaching methods
Oral lessons and laboratory
Assessment methods and criteria
The verification of the achievement of the objectives foresees a single exam concerning the three modules of “Biochemistry 1”, “Applied Biochemistry ” and “Biochemistry 2”.
The exam is an oral discussion, where the student must answer to three questions (one for each module) demonstrating good understanding and ability to describe and integrate the topics covered by the course. The capacity for expression through a terminology appropriate to the subject is considered essential.
Students with a diagnosis of specific learning disorders (DSA), certified according to the law n. 170/2010 will be granted the benefits provided by law.
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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