BIOCHEMISTRY (BCH2601) is typically a course offered in university programs related to biology, chemistry, and life sciences. The course focuses on the molecular processes and chemical reactions that occur within living organisms, often bridging the fields of chemistry and biology.
Here are some key topics that are generally covered in a Biochemistry course like BCH2601:
1. Molecular Biology and Genetics:
- Structure and function of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA)
- Genetic code and protein synthesis (transcription, translation)
- Gene regulation and expression
- Mutations and DNA repair mechanisms
2. Proteins and Enzymes:
- Structure and function of proteins (amino acids, peptide bonds, protein folding)
- Enzyme kinetics, mechanisms, and regulation
- Coenzymes, cofactors, and enzyme inhibitors
- Allosteric regulation and feedback inhibition
3. Metabolism and Bioenergetics:
- Overview of metabolism (anabolism and catabolism)
- Pathways like glycolysis, citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle), and oxidative phosphorylation
- ATP production and energy transfer
- Regulation of metabolic pathways
4. Carbohydrates, Lipids, and Proteins:
- Structure and function of carbohydrates (monosaccharides, disaccharides, polysaccharides)
- Lipid metabolism (fatty acids, triglycerides, phospholipids, cholesterol)
- Protein metabolism (deamination, urea cycle)
- Nutritional biochemistry
5. Hormonal Regulation:
- Hormones and their role in metabolism
- Mechanisms of hormone action (receptors, second messengers)
- Insulin, glucagon, thyroid hormones, and steroid hormones
6. Vitamins and Coenzymes:
- Roles of vitamins in enzyme function (e.g., Vitamin B complex, Vitamin K)
- Coenzymes and cofactors in biochemical reactions
7. Cellular Signaling and Signal Transduction:
- Pathways such as G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs)
- Signal transduction mechanisms and cellular responses
- Second messengers (cAMP, IP3, DAG)
8. Biochemical Techniques:
- Techniques like chromatography, electrophoresis, spectrophotometry
- Protein and nucleic acid analysis methods
- Enzyme assays and metabolite quantification
9. Disease and Biochemistry:
- Biochemical basis of diseases (diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer)
- Metabolic disorders (e.g., phenylketonuria, maple syrup urine disease)
- Biochemical markers in diagnostics
This course is essential for students pursuing careers in health, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and various biological research fields.