Search | Previous : 521-203 | Next : 521-212
Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Science : Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

521-211 Principles of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology: Part A

Credit Points:

12.5

Coordinator:

Mr GR Parslow

Prerequisite/s:

Chemistry 610-121/122 or 141/142 or, if an average mark of 60% or better is obtained, 161/162. Biology 600-141/142 is not a prerequisite but is strongly recommended.

Timetable:

Semester 1

Contact:

39 lectures (three a week); 12 hours of computer-based tutorials

Objectives:

By the end of the program the student should have acquired:

  • knowledge of the fundamental areas of Biochemistry relating to the structure, function and chemical properties of biological molecules necessary for those who wish to continue with the study of Biochemistry and useful to those who wish to specialise in other biological sciences;

  • a detailed understanding of the structure and function relationships of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates and nucleic acids;

  • an understanding of the principles of digestion and absorption of nutrients;

  • an appreciation of the underlying principles of molecular cloning and recombinant DNA technology.

Content:

Introduction to the principles of cellular metabolism and other cellular functions. Amino acid chemistry; acid base implications in biochemistry; preparation and purification of proteins; structure and function of proteins with particular attention given to serum proteins, haemoglobin and immunoglobulins; properties of enzymes and regulation of their activity; lipid chemistry; biomembrane composition, architecture, dynamics and function including membrane transport processes; carbohydrate structure and function; mammalian digestion and absorption of nutrients; the structure of nucleotides, DNA and RNA; the physical parameters of DNA helices and implications for roles as genetic material; molecular cloning and recombinant DNA technology.

Assessment:

Computer-based tests of knowledge gained in computer tutorials (10%); a 3-hour written examination at the end of the semester (90%).

Prescribed Texts:

  • Lehninger A, Nelson D and Cox M, Principles of Biochemistry, 2nd ed. 1993 Worth.
Search | Previous : 521-203 | Next : 521-212
Handbook 1997 : Faculty of Science : Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 
Status:                   OFFICIAL 1997
Last Modified:            Wednesday March 12 3:36 pm
SGML to HTML Conversion:  Information Technology Services
Authorised by:            Academic Registrar
Email Enquiries:          Course_Information@registrar.unimelb.edu.au
Copyright © University of Melbourne 1997.