Biochemistry

COURSE OBJECTIVE
The interactive documents, lectures and tutorials will provide insight into the basic (bio-)chemical principles of the construction of living cells, the chemical structure of the cellular components and the way in which macromolecules (proteins, DNA, RNA, lipids) are used to make cells function. Furthermore, the way in which signalling in and between cells can takes place and how these pathways can be modulated by chemical signalling substances and medicines will be discussed. Attention will be given to how cells extract energy from the breakdown of nutrients and how this energy is used for growth and cell division. The final topic of The course is the cytoskeleton and how this is involved in cell division.

COURSE CONTENT
With the unraveling of the human genome and progress within the life sciences we learn more and more about the role of different biomolecules in important cellular processes. The course Biochemistry focuses on the
important components of cells and their function. Subjects to be discussed are the different cell types, cell organelles, cellular components (proteins, DNA / RNA and lipids) and the building blocks that make up these macromolecules. Protein structure and function, signaltransduction and the metabolism (enzymes, Michaelis-Menten kinetics, allosteric effects, metabolic / signal transduction pathways) will be discussed as well. In particular, the protein molecules involved in important cellular processes such as cellular communication, membrane transport, cell division and apoptosis will receive attention.

TEACHING METHODS
Tutorials, and self-study (Digital books, canvas quizes).

TYPE OF ASSESSMENT
One partial exam and a final exam. Depending on the number of students the exam might change to an oral exam.