Elements of biochemistry

lchm1271v  2022-2023  Louvain-la-Neuve

Elements of biochemistry
2.00 credits
20.0 h
Q1
Teacher(s)
Ghislain Michel (compensates Soumillion Patrice); Soumillion Patrice;
Language
French
Prerequisites
It is recommended to have acquired the knowledge and skills developed in the teaching units:
LCHM1111Chimie générale
LCHM1141Chimie organique
Main themes
Basic biomolecules
1. Amino acids
2. Carbohydrates
3. Lipids and biological membranes
4. Nucleic acids
5. Proteins and enzymes
Concepts of molecular biochemistry
1. DNA replication
2. Transcription of DNA into RNA
3. Protein biosynthesis
Content
This first biochemistry course will aim at presenting the structure and chemical properties of the main molecular protagonists of the living world.
The different chapters will be devoted to the detailed description of the major classes of biomolecules (amino acids, nucleotides, lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, enzymes).
The way in which small molecules are assembled into larger structures (polymers) will also be discussed.
The chemical origin of the main types of covalent and non-covalent interactions between biomolecules will allow a good understanding of the modes of biosynthesis and molecular recognition which are at the heart of the organization and functioning of living organisms.
The behavior of enzymes, the main workers of life, will also be introduced, by describing the catalytic properties and the modes of regulation of these properties.
The course will also provide a first descriptive introduction to the three major processes that are at the heart of the functioning of any living cell, namely replication, transcription and translation.
This introduction will then serve as a basis for presenting the basics of modern molecular biology and recombinant DNA technologies that allow us to manipulate DNA in a surgical manner today.
Five half-day practical sessions are also organized to familiarize the student with the experimental manipulation of the main classes of biomolecules (sugars, lipids, proteins, enzymes).
Teaching methods
Lectures and practical work in the classroom
Evaluation methods
Written exam in session (80% of the final grade), quiz and practical work reports (20% of the final grade).
Bibliography
  • Principles of Biochemistry de Lehninger
  • Biochemistry de Voet et Voet
(éditions récentes)
Faculty or entity
CHIM


Programmes / formations proposant cette unité d'enseignement (UE)

Title of the programme
Sigle
Credits
Prerequisites
Learning outcomes
Bachelor in Veterinary Medicine