BCH2011 · Structure and function of cellular biomolecules

Overview

This is the first of two units in the Biochemistry second year curriculum. These are two 6-credit point units introducing you to the fundamental concepts and knowledge required to understand cellular function at a molecular level and building the skills necessary for you to interpret biochemical information and perform biochemical experiments. The curriculum builds on foundational knowledge of cell biology and organic and physical chemistry, establishes the skills and understanding you will need for the more specialised third year biochemistry units and provides a broad appreciation of cellular processes relevant to all areas of life science. In this unit (Structure and function of biomolecules), you will develop knowledge of the organelles and classes of molecules (nucleic acids, proteins, and membrane lipids) that exist within a functioning cell and understanding of how such biochemical components are produced and organised in the process of cellular replication. You will also develop skills in relation to the identification, quantification and localisation of cellular biomolecules, measurement of enzyme function, and testing hypotheses related to biosynthetic processes.

Areas of study: Biochemistry

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe how the structure of biologically relevant molecules contributes to their function in cells and organisms;
2. Define the molecular structure of biological membranes and their role in cellular metabolism;
3. Explain the physical and biochemical properties of proteins and describe how proteins function as enzymes;
4. Summarise the techniques and underpinning science that is exploited for the isolation, separation and characterisation of biological molecules;
5. Demonstrate technical skills in basic laboratory techniques used for the separation and identification of biological molecules and for measuring enzymatic behaviour;
6. Demonstrate the skills necessary to accurately interpret biochemical data;
7. Demonstrate an ability to research original published scientific literature and effectively communicate your findings.

Workload

• 2-hour workshop; • 3 hours of laboratory activities; • 2 hours of online activities and • 6 hours of independent study per week.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.