Course Objectives

The objectives of the course are to:

  1. Explain the structure of different macromolecules in biological systems.
  2. Identify types of chemical reactions involving these macromolecules.
  3. Describe the various methods of isolating and purifying macromolecules.
  4. Analyze the effects of acids and alkalis on macromolecules.
  5. Discuss the principles of macromolecule quantification.

Overall Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course, students should be able to:

  1. Explain the structural features and functions of macromolecules.
  2. Identify chemical reactions and their significance in biochemical processes.
  3. Apply methods for isolating, purifying, and quantifying macromolecules.
  4. Assess the impact of pH, temperature, and inhibitors on enzyme-catalyzed reactions.
  5. Understand the basic principles of biochemical signaling and transport mechanisms in membranes.

Detailed Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to General Biochemistry

  • Definition and scope of biochemistry
  • Cell theory and comparison of prokaryotic vs. eukaryotic cells
  • Structure and functions of major cellular components

Module 2: Water and its Biological Role

  • Physical and chemical properties of water
  • Water balance, acidity, and alkalinity
  • pH, pKa values, and their effects on cellular activities
  • Buffers and biochemical applications

Module 3: Chemistry of Amino Acids and Proteins

  • Amino acids: classification, properties, and biological functions
  • Peptides and proteins: classification, structure (primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary)
  • Methods of protein isolation, purification, and identification
  • Protein tests and their principles

Module 4: Enzyme Kinetics and Mechanisms

  • Nature, classification, and nomenclature of enzymes
  • Mechanisms of enzyme-catalyzed reactions
  • Kinetics of enzymes and inhibition
  • Effects of pH, temperature, ions, and inhibitors on enzymes

Module 5: Chemistry of Carbohydrates and Lipids

  • Chemistry and classification of carbohydrates
  • Glycobiology: structure and functions
  • Chemistry of lipids: triacylglycerols, phospholipids, and sphingolipids

Module 6: Nucleic Acids and Molecular Biochemistry

  • Nucleotides and nucleosides: nomenclature and properties
  • Effects of acid and alkali on nucleic acid hydrolysis
  • DNA-based information technologies
  • Biological membranes, transport mechanisms, and biochemical signaling

Teaching/Learning Methods

  1. Lectures: Introduction and explanation of theoretical concepts.
  2. Practical Demonstrations: Visualization of biochemical reactions and techniques.
  3. Group Discussions: Peer-based analysis and discussions on biochemical topics
  4. Research Assignments: Focused studies on specific biochemical processes.

Modes of Assessment

Class Participation and Assignments

10%

Mid-Semester Test

20%

Laboratory Reports and Exercises

20%

Final Examination

50%

 

Reading List/References

Primary Texts

  1. Nelson, D. L., & Cox, M. M. (2021). Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry. 8th Edition. Macmillan.
  2. Voet, D., Voet, J. G., & Pratt, C. W. (2021). Fundamentals of Biochemistry: Life at the Molecular Level. 6th Edition. Wiley.

Supplementary Texts

  1. Berg, J. M., Tymoczko, J. L., & Stryer, L. (2020). Biochemistry. 9th Edition. W.H. Freeman.
  2. Mathews, C. K., van Holde, K. E., Appling, D. R., & Anthony-Cahill, S. J. (2018). Biochemistry. 4th Edition. Pearson Education.

Additional Resources

  1. Garrett, R. H., & Grisham, C. M. (2019). Biochemistry. 6th Edition. Cengage Learning.
  2. Murray, R. K., et al. (2022). Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry. 32nd Edition. McGraw-Hill.