Biochemistry and Metabolism G (11895.1)

This unit provides a comprehensive exploration of metabolism. It examines the synthesis and breakdown of biomolecules as fuels and building blocks for the human body to function. This unit introduces students to metabolism and energy transfer mechanisms and explores the main catabolic and anabolic pathways for carbohydrates, proteins and fats together with their regulation. Emphasis will be placed on the utilisation of these nutrients under different physiological conditions and selected metabolic/nutritional diseases. This unit is co-taught with 11734 Biochemistry and Metabolism.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
1. Differentiate between major biochemical pathways used in humans, both to extract energy from the key nutrients and to synthesise new cellular components;
2. Examine the role of energy in living cells, with particular reference to the concept of free energy and the role of ATP;
3. Appraise the mechanisms of metabolic control of the main catabolic and anabolic pathways;
4. Integrate acquired knowledge of metabolic pathways to evaluate metabolic changes in disease;
5. Develop experimental laboratory skills and apply scientific principles to the interpretation of biochemical data; and
6. Critically evaluate and interpret a variety of literature to address a contemporary issue in medical science, from a metabolic/biochemical perspective.

Graduate attributes

1. UC graduates are professional - employ up-to-date and relevant knowledge and skills
1. UC graduates are professional - use creativity, critical thinking, analysis and research skills to solve theoretical and real-world problems
1. UC graduates are professional - display initiative and drive, and use their organisation skills to plan and manage their workload
3. UC graduates are lifelong learners - reflect on their own practice, updating and adapting their knowledge and skills for continual professional and academic development

Prerequisites

11894 Fundamentals of Biochemistry G.

Corequisites

None.

Incompatible units

None.

Equivalent units

6481 Human Biochemistry G.

Assumed knowledge

None.