BCH3031

Biomedical biochemistry and molecular biology

Included on BSc(Biomedical) schedule of approved subjects only

Dr Wayne Comper

12 points - Four 1-hour lectures, one 6-hour practical and one 1-hour tutorial per week - First semester - Clayton - Prerequisites: BCH2031 and BCH2042 - Prohibition: BCH3011

Objectives On completion of this subject students should understand the molecular biology of gene structure, expression and regulation at a detailed level; comprehend macromolecular structure and function and cell-matrix interactions; achieve a broad view of the importance of biochemistry and molecular biology to current advances in biology, biotechnology and medicine; recognise particularly the medical relevance of biochemistry and molecular biology and the application of this discipline to the understanding and treatment of some medical conditions; develop skills in the use of routine biochemistry laboratory equipment and in advanced biochemical and molecular biological techniques; manipulate and interpret biochemical data; develop skills in the communication of scientific information by verbal and written means and by poster displays.

Synopsis This subject is presented in four main themes: (i) molecular biology - gene structure, expression and regulation together with aspects of molecular virology; (ii) macromolecular structure and interaction in relation to biological activity - details of protein structure in relation to evolution, regulation of enzyme activity, the extracellular matrix and dynamic interactions of proteins; (iii) biotechnology - the use of immobilised enzymes, recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering; (iv) human biochemistry and genetic disease - the molecular biology of genetic disease and its treatment including gene therapy. Practical training extends the student's skills in modern and advanced techniques in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Assessment Examinations (2x2 hours): 80% - Laboratory: 20%

Prescribed texts

Alberts B and others Molecular biology of the cell 3rd edn, Garland, 1994

Recommended texts

Strachan T and Read A P Human molecular genetics Bios, 1996

Back to the 1999 Science Handbook