Overview
An introduction to the structure and function of proteins as essential elements of life processes; principles of enzymology; introductory bioenergetics; conservation of the energy of food for body processes; digestion and catabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates; terminal pathways of oxidation, anaerobic and aerobic metabolism, mitochondrial metabolism; energy storage and utilisation; the molecular basis of disease; illustrative topics in metabolism.
If you've ever wondered how living things work, where they get their energy from, how they make the components they need or what it is that your genes do, then biochemistry is for you. Biochemists describe life by applying the molecular approach of chemistry to the study of biological molecules. Biochemists also explore the molecular basis of disease, generating insights into how disease can be managed and treated. Biochemistry occupies a central place in the life sciences. It is fundamental to our understanding of the structure, function and development of all life. It doesn't matter which area of biology you are interested in, biochemistry will enhance your understanding of life.
About this paper
| Paper title | Foundations of Biochemistry |
|---|---|
| Subject | Biochemistry |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 2 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,318.20 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Prerequisite
- CHEM 191
- Schedule C
- Science
- Notes
- Students who in the first semester of the same year have failed CHEM191 with a mark of 45 - 49, have passed all other papers and require BIOC192 for timely progression will be considered for entry to BIOC192 by special permission.
- Eligibility
- BIOC 192 is suitable for a broad range of life science students. It is a prerequisite for entry into health professional programmes and the Bachelor of Biomedical Science. A variety of Bachelor of Science (and other degree) major/minor subjects will include BIOC 192 in their requirements, including those intending to major/minor in Biochemistry.
- Contact
- Teaching staff
Course Co-ordinator: Dr Nicole Power
Lecturers from the Departments of Biochemistry and Pharmacology & Toxicology.
- Paper Structure
This paper covers three modules:
- Proteins
- Molecular Biology
- Metabolism
- Teaching Arrangements
BIOC192 is comprised of 36 lectures and five 3-hour practical laboratories. Attendance at laboratories is compulsory. A progress test will be held on a Saturday morning.
- Textbooks
A variety of textbooks are suitable for BIOC 192. We recommend: Voet, D., Voet, J. G., and Pratt, C. W. Fundamentals of Biochemistry, John Wiley & Sons
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Global perspective, Interdisciplinary perspective, Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Ethics, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
- Gain an understanding of the major paradigms in protein biochemistry, molecular genetics, biotechnology and human carbon metabolism
- Gain recognition of the relationship between molecular structure/function and human health
- Gain familiarity with the language of biochemistry
- Develop the ability to integrate material across the discipline
- Appreciate the relationship between biochemistry and other pre-clinical sciences
- Recognise that biochemical knowledge is evidence-based
- Appreciate the principles of scientific method and how they can be applied to the design and interpretation of experiments
- Gain exposure to and competence in a variety of techniques for analysing biological molecules
- Develop and appreciate the value of intellectual independence
- Encourage students to be enthusiastic about biochemistry
- Ensure students are adequately prepared for advancement to both clinical and non-clinical 200-level papers
- Assessment details
30% Internal assessments
70% Final examination