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Unit information: Biological Chemistry 1B: Powering Biomolecular Interactions in 2020/21

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Unit name Biological Chemistry 1B: Powering Biomolecular Interactions
Unit code BIOC10002
Credit points 20
Level of study C/4
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director Professor. Leo Brady
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

Biological Chemistry 1A

Co-requisites

None

School/department School of Biochemistry
Faculty Faculty of Life Sciences

Description including Unit Aims

The overall aim of this unit is to extend training in the fundamental biomolecular concepts introduced in Biological Chemistry 1A. Specifically, the unit aims to provide coverage of the key concepts of biomolecular interactions. This includes ligand binding and enzyme catalysis, and the role of energy in driving biomolecular interactions including redox, photosynthetic and chemiosmotic concepts. In addition, the unit will also provide elementary training in mathematical techniques used in the analysis of biomolecular interactions. The unit also aims to familiarise students with the operation of academic biomolecular research practice including examples of current hot research topics, and to introduce elementary scientific writing skills. Together with Biological Chemistry 1A, the content of this unit provides a foundation for students going on to take all second year Biochemistry units and many other Faculty of Life Sciences I-level units. The general aims of the unit are:

  • to provide students with an understanding and appreciation of the key concepts describing and driving biomolecular interactions;
  • to familiarise students with basic mathematical operations used in biomolecular research;
  • to expose students to current biomolecular and biomedical research practice;
  • to provide opportunities for students to engage in a range of scientific writing styles.

Intended Learning Outcomes

  1. An understanding of the basic concepts surrounding ligand binding and enzyme catalysis;
  2. An appreciation for the different forms and role of energy in driving biomolecular interactions;
  3. Knowledge of how biomolecular interactions are driven by redox, photosynthetic, proton gradient and thermodynamic processes;
  4. Proficiency in the use of basic mathematical operations used in the analysis of biomolecular interactions.
  5. An understanding of basic biochemical analyses and the use of simple laboratory apparatus;
  6. Familiarity with the practice of biomolecular research within an academic environment;
  7. An ability to comprehend, communicate and explain scientific knowledge and research methods within the field of biomolecular research at an elementary level in writing.

Teaching Information

The teaching in the unit is normally delivered through a combination of synchronous and asynchronous activities including lectures, workshops and practicals

Assessment Information

Coursework 40%

Timed assessments 60%

Reading and References

Chemistry for the Biosciences, 2nd edition, J Crowe and T Bradshaw, Oxford 2010 The Molecules of Life, 1st edition, J Kuriyan, B Konforti and D Wemmer, Garland Science, 2013.

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