Medical Biochemistry

    Unit code: RBM2560 | Study level: Undergraduate
    12
    (Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
    Footscray Park
    St Albans
    RBM1528 - Human Physiology 2; or
    RBF1310 - Biology 1; and
    RCS1602 - Chemistry 1B
    (Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
    Overview
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    Overview

    The aim of this unit is to provide a foundation in biochemical principles with special emphasis on medical and nutritional applications. Firstly, foundations of biochemistry will be covered, including biological buffers and structures of genes, biological macromolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids. Other topics covered include enzymes, bioenergetics and carbohydrate metabolism pathways, protein synthesis and modification. The clinical significance of various metabolic disorders will be discussed from a biochemical perspective.

    Learning Outcomes

    On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

    1. Examine the structure and function of genes, biological macromolecules and how buffers work;
    2. Discriminate between the structure of various proteins and review the processes by which proteins are purified and analysed;
    3. Identify and analyse the nature and behaviour of enzymes and their reactions; and
    4. Map and articulate metabolic pathways in bioenergetics and investigate the biochemical basis of metabolic diseases;

    Study as a single unit

    This unit can be studied on its own, without enrolling in a full degree.

    Learn more about single units of study at VU

    Assessment

    For Melbourne campuses

    Assessment type: Test
    |
    Grade: 20%
    Tests x 2 (30 min each)
    Assessment type: Laboratory Work
    |
    Grade: 30%
    Practical Reports x 2 (1000 words each)
    Assessment type: Case Study
    |
    Grade: 20%
    Written submission (1000 words)
    Assessment type: Presentation
    |
    Grade: 30%
    Oral Presentation (5mins)

    Required reading

    As part of a course

    This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

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