521-304 Hormone & Neurotransmitter Biochemistry

Biochemistry 521-211 and 521-212.

BBiomedSc students: 521-213 and 536-250.

Aberrations in the structure and expression of hormones, growth factors, neurotransmitters and their receptors can give rise to diseases such as diabetes, cancer and Parkinson's disease. To understand the molecular basis of these diseases, it is essential to know how hormones, growth factors and neurotransmitters are synthesised and processed, and how their signals are recognised, amplified and transmitted by intracellular signaling pathways in the target cells.

On completion of the subject, students will understand the molecular basis of hormone and neurotransmitter actions; the techniques used to investigate the mechanism of hormone action and neurotransmitter functions; and how abnormalities in synthesis and secretion and in the intracellular signalling pathways give rise to diseases.

Topics covered include endocrine systems producing individual hormones; biosynthesis, storage and secretion of hormones and neurotransmitters; hormone receptors and mechanisms of intracellular signal transduction, emphasis on second messengers and protein phosphorylation-dephosphorylation; regulation of gene expression; molecular basis of insulin action and drug addiction; tissue specialisation within the nervous system and different roles of individual neurotransmitters; neurochemistry of visual transduction; neurochemistry of myelin; molecular basis of multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's, Huntington's, Alzheimer's and other neurological diseases.

In addition to these specific skills, students will think critically from consideration of the lecture material and research papers, expand from theoretical principles to practical explanations through observing and reporting research literature, and acquire abilities in collaborative working while participating in group presentations.

A 50-minute written test held mid-semester (7.5%); a 50-minute written test at the end of semester (7.5%); a 50-minute group oral presentation during semester (5%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (80%).