411-255 Metabolic Engineering

411-254 Biomolecular Process Principles.

Metabolism in microbial, plant and animal cells. Control of metabolism and its application to bioprocessing and bioproduct process development. Pathways of catabolism and anabolism in heterotrophs. Photosynthesis. Chemoautotrophs and their role in biological waste treatment. Genetic control of metabolism. Genetic manipulation by mutation and recombinant DNA techniques. Case studies in the development of bioprocesses employing recombinant microorganisms. Control at the enzyme level. Enzyme inhibition kinetics. Immobilised enzymes, mass transfer and kinetic effects. Protein and enzyme engineering. Metabolic engineering.

Practical work (enzyme kinetics)

The subject will enhance the following generic skills:

• capacity for independent thought

• the ability to comprehend complex concepts and communicate lucidly this understanding

• awareness of advanced technologies in the dicipline

• ability to work in a team, including with professinals from different disciplline areas

One written 3-hour end-of-semester examination (90%); practical work assignments not exceeding a combined total of 2000 words (10%).