Proteins and Metabolism

Course Content:

The module provides students with knowledge of the structure and methods of analysis of
proteins, with particular emphasis on enzymes. This is followed by the study of the major
catabolic and anabolic pathways and investigates how organisms obtain and use energy.

These processes, and their regulation in health and disease, are considered at the
molecular level, which involves many proteins including enzymes.

Autumn Semester sumamry: the structure and methods of analysis of proteins, with
particular emphasis on enzymes. Brief introduction of Bioenergetics.

Spring Semester summary: the study of the major catabolic and anabolic pathways and
how organisms obtain and use energy. Regulation of these in health and disease, are
considered at the molecular level, which involves many proteins including enzymes.

Topics covered may include:
? Amino Acids - Revision of basic structure and chemical properties. Structure of
side chains.
? Protein Structure - Structure and properties of the peptide bond, levels of
protein structure relating to primary structure and function of proteins.
? Enzymes - Structural features of enzymes relating to function. Measurement of
enzyme activity, including calculation of kinetic parameters and enzyme
inhibition.
? Spectroscopy - Outline of principles of UV/visible spectroscopy, fluorescence
techniques and applications to protein structure and enzyme assays.
? Protein Purification Techniques: Ultracentrifugation, chromatography,
electrophoresis as applied to the purification of proteins.
? Bioenergetics & Oxidative Phosphorylation: Free energy changes, reduction
potentials, coupled reactions and electron transport. Organisation of the inner
mitochondrial membrane and its relationship to the chemiosmotic theory.
? Carbohydrate Metabolism: Integration and regulation of glycolysis/
gluconeogenesis, glycogen metabolism, pentose phosphate pathway and the citric
acid cycle.
? Amino Acid Metabolism: Integration and regulation of amino acid metabolism.
? Lipid & Cholesterol Metabolism: Integration and regulation of ?-oxidation, ketone
body metabolism, fatty acid synthesis, triglyceride metabolism and cholesterol
synthesis. Classification and roles of serum lipoproteins.

Teaching: Lectures, tutorials, workshops and practical sessions

Assessment:
STUDY OPTION 1:
? 3 hour Exam (50%)
? Coursework: Portfolio of laboratory reports (40%) and data interpretation
exercise (10%)
STUDY OPTION 2 OR 3:
? Practical report (50%)
? Continuous assessment portfolio (50%)

Study Option 1 = Whole Year
Study Option 2 = Autumn
Study Option 3 = Spring/summer