521-322 Protein Biochemistry and Proteomics

Before the commencement of the semester, students must advise the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of their order of preference for the alternative practical sessions and the other subjects they will be taking.

Biochemistry 521-211, 521-212 and either 521-220 or 521-221; or 521-024.

BBiomedSc students: 521-213 and 536-250.

By the end of the subject the student should have developed skills in experimental methods used in advanced investigations of protein structure, and in the critical evaluation of the experimental data derived from such methods; applied these skills to a number of specific protein-based experimental systems; and developed skills in the interpretation of experimental data using appropriate model simulations and computer graphics relevant to protein chemistry and proteomics.

In addition to these specific skills, students will develop an appreciation of the current scientific literature and acquire problem-solving abilities in a collaborative setting.

Topics covered include modern biochemistry methods and database analysis for characterising protein structure and function; experiments that explore the thermodynamics of protein unfolding; determination and analysis of small molecular weight ligand binding to proteins; and the use of computers in the analysis and homology modeling of protein structure. Students will present written accounts of experimental results and use computers for analysing results and displaying molecular graphics applications. Experimental work may be organised into elective streams, one of which will involve an opportunity to undertake relevant project work within one of the department's research laboratories (a quota will apply).

Laboratory skills and practical management of the experimental program; written research report(s); written assignment of up to 2000 words or a 2-hour written examination (to be advised at the commencement of the subject).