Learning objectives
The target of this course is to lead the student to basic knowledge and understanding of the structure and function relationship among biological macromolecules and of the energetic metabolism of euchariotic cells and animal tissues. A particular interest will be devoted to the understanding of energy production, utilization and storing in order to sollicit students to apply their knowledge on questions typically of today’s interest such as the basal metabolism of living organisms and some physiologycal functions such as (hormone regulations of metabolism, the mechanism of muscular contraction, etc.). Matter of great interest is also the energetic metabolism in relation with oxygen utilization. Moreover, a large part of lessons will be devoted to the issue of oxygen deprivation in different animal systems and living conditions. At the end of this course and with the knowledge acquired by other course as physics, anatomy and general and organic chemistry, the student should demonstrate by means of his learning skills, the ability of making judgements, communication skills, which is the termodynamic impact that the energetic need of living systems may exert on our ecosystem.
Prerequisites
Physiscs, gen. and organic chemistry
Course unit content
Structure and function of molecules and macromolecules of biological interest: Mono and polysaccharides, proteins, lipids, DNA and RNA. Metabolism: Glicolysis and Glicogenolysis, Krebs cycle, respiratory chain and oxidative phosphorylation, ATP and other high energy-content molecules.
Full programme
Structure and function of amino acids and proteins, DNA and protein synthesis, lipids and mono- and poly-saccharides. A deep attention is devoted to protein functions in enzymatic activity, hormonal regulation, muscular contraction, respiratory system and transportation. Glucose, glycogen and fatty acids metabolism. Mitochondria and ATP synthesis.
Particular attention will be paid towards the analysis of energy production and consumption and to the thermodynamic of biological systems.
Bibliography
Biochemistry
(CEA Editrice)
Mathews, vanHolde, Ahern.
Teaching methods
Oral lessons and classroom in-itinere exercises
Assessment methods and criteria
Written tests during the course, and oral exam at the end that should enable to verify student's understanding of the content of the course and the skill to make linkages with other disciplines
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
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