521-305 Biochemistry of Metabolism & Nutrition

Biochemistry 521-211, 521-212 and 521-220. In special circumstances students who have not taken 521-220 may be permitted to enrol in this subject.

BBiomedSc students: 521-213 and 536-250.

An understanding of the molecular mechanisms that control metabolic processes and determine metabolic outcomes is needed for interpretation of, and appropriate responses to nutritional information.

On completion of the subject, students should understand the relationships between nutrients and metabolic processes in various physiological and diseased states.

The subject content includes an overview of whole animal nutrition and metabolism; the principles behind control of nutrient digestion and absorption; the concepts of bioenergetics and the consequences of aerobic metabolism, including the generation of free-radicals and the importance of antioxidants in protecting proteins, lipids and DNA from oxidative damage; the mechanism of action of lipid-soluble vitamins; the regulation of muscle protein metabolism in response to starvation, physical trauma and various diseases; the dietary fate of lipids; the regulation of lipoprotein metabolism and transport in normal and disease states; metabolic contributions to obesity, cardiovascular disease, aging and related nutritional problems; nutrient carrier proteins and relevant cell receptors.

In addition, students will develop skills in critical thinking from consideration of both the lecture material and research literature. They will learn to apply theoretical principles to the explanation of observations and acquire skills in communication, time management and collaborative working through participation in group presentations.

A 30-minute group oral presentation and 1000 word written assignment during the semester (10%); a 45-minute written test held mid-semester (10%); a 3-hour written examination in the examination period (80%).