Module: BIO4101-20 Introduction to Biochemistry

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Dr Bill Hosker

Module Tutor Contact Details: B.Hosker@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module:

This module lays the biochemical foundations required to study the scientific basis of nutrition and health. It introduces students to the relevant fundamental chemical principles of atoms and molecules, the biochemical and physiological importance of water and acid-base balance. This foundation in biochemistry is then taken further in the study of larger molecules such as the structure and function of DNA, proteins, lipids and carbohydrates. The importance of enzyme catalysed reactions is introduced and is taken further, developing student awareness of the control of major metabolic pathways. Metabolic responses to over- and under-nutrition, deficiency states, and consideration to other physiological aspects of metabolism are also included. Inborn errors of metabolism are covered as the module develops and the role of specific diets in ameliorating the effects of some inborn error of metabolism is also covered. Practical sessions are typically linked to the lecture material, consolidating the knowledge gained and indicating relevant practical applications of the theory taught.

The aims of the module are:

-To provide a sound understanding of fundamental chemical/biochemical concepts

-To provide an understanding of structure and function of larger molecules

-Understand enzymology and apply understanding to metabolic pathways

-Allow students to experience a range of relevant practical techniques.

-To allow students to apply key concepts to practical techniques and relevant pathological/nutrition conditions.

-To allow students to be able to present and analyse data and apply their knowledge in the interpretation of it.

Bath Spa Graduate attributes

By taking this module you will fulfil some aspects of the Bath Spa graduate attributes; to become:

Critical thinkers: able to express their ideas in written and oral form, and possessing information literacy.

Digitally literate: able to work at the interface of creativity and technology.

Employable: equipped with the skills necessary to flourish in the global workplace, able to work in, and lead, teams. And also: be able to understand and manage complexity, diversity and change.

2.Outline syllabus:

You will attend one lecture (2 hours) and one seminar or laboratory workshop (3 hours) per week and would be expected to support this programme with some directed study and available tutorials.

The lecture programme introduces the fundamental principles of biochemistry and these are complemented by relevant laboratory based practical sessions where you will gain considerable experience in spectrophotometry, enzymology, presenting and analysing data as well as other techniques.

You will begin by being introduced to the key elements of organic chemistry, including the structure of macromolecules, and how they are formed.

The importance of larger, biomolecules is covered in lectures (and associated practical sessions) on cell membranes, nucleic acids and proteins.

Reactions catalysed by enzymes are examined, with a special focus on their role in metabolic pathways. This information will put into practise in a series of laboratory practical sessions which form part of the assessment for this module. Carried out independently, your practical skills will be observed during the sessions and you will be assessed on your ability to record, present, analyse and interpret data through the practical sessions and the laboratory report write up.

In the lectures on major metabolic pathways, understanding the control of metabolic pathways takes priority (rather than memorising steps), with links to physiological response to fasting and fed states. The last topics (alcohol and the body, calcium and the body and inborn errors of metabolism) also have strong links to effects on metabolic pathways with nutritional considerations.

Alongside practical work, you will also attend lab-based workshops and seminar discussions. These are primarily staff-led but require student contributions based on directed study and are used to develop understanding of assessments, data handling, analysis and scientific writing.

3.Teaching and learning activities:

Lectures are the key source of information, supported by online materials (on Minerva), including interactive presentations of many of the lectures, screen casts and other documents.

The practical sessions are generally linked to the preceding lecture, and are intended to reinforce key concepts and demonstrate practical applications of the knowledge. There is a range of workshops also included in the timetable, including, ‘techniques in biochemistry, which ends in a formative presentation.

After each major topic there are formative MCQ questions on Minerva to build confidence or highlight areas where revision/help is needed. Exam style questions are also provided (with answers) after each major topic, to allow you to check understanding and get familiar with the style of questions (interpretive) in the end of module assessment.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Assessed practical and Practical Laboratory report (2000 words)

• % Weighting: 50%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Exam

• Description: End of module exam, (2 hours, unseen, open book)

• % Weighting: 50%