BMS2021

Biochemistry in human function

6 points · 3 lectures per week and 3 hours practical or equivalent · First semester · Clayton

Objectives The major aim of this subject is to introduce students to the dynamic aspects of biochemistry in human function. From this subject, the students will acquire the core scientific knowledge of how human tissues function at the molecular and cellular levels, in health and disease. Students will understand the biochemical processes involved in the molecular functions of cells and tissues, the biochemical basis of good nutrition, and the molecular mechanisms of cellular growth. Students will have an understanding of the biochemical principles of cellular metabolism, the dynamic state of metabolism at cellular and molecular levels, the bioenergetics and mitrochondrial function in cellular aging, the enzymic regulation of metabolism, the neuroendocrine control and the nutritional modulation of metabolism.

Synopsis The subject will involve the biochemical principles in the synthesis of cellular structural and regulatory components and the generation of metabolic energy from macronutrients. Aspects of specialised tissue metabolism including bone formation and resorption and inflammation will be studied. Students will also study mitrochondria in energy metabolism and the malfunction of mitrochondria in relation to aging. The function and modulation of enzyme activity and the importance of inherited metabolic defects and chromosomal disorders will be investigated at the molecular level. Hormonal regulation of key metabolic processes in a variety of organ systems will be studied, and the effects of nutritional modulation of metabolism, through gene expression and end-organ substrate metabolism will be studied.

Assessment Written examination by short answer questions and MCQs: 70% · Continuous assessment of project performance: 30%

Prescribed texts

Marieb E Human anatomy and physiology Addison-Wesley Longman, 4th edn, 1996

Back to the 1999 Medicine Handbook