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Learn Biochemistry Online

 

In this online course, students will study life at the atomic and molecular level. This course introduces the fourclasses of biomolecules that are the building blocks of living organisms – proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids. Students will explore how bioenergy is stored in and extracted from food sources. Finally, students will study how inheritable genetic information is stored in the form of DNA and orchestrates the functions of cells through the processes of transcription and translation. The course is appropriate for students who have not taken a biochemistry course and those that have and want to refresh their knowledge in the area. A rudimentary understanding of biology and chemistry is recommended.

Topics
 
  • Atoms; Life; Water
  • Protein Composition and Structure
  • Concepts and Kinetics of Enzymes
  • Hemoglobin, Carbohydrates, and Lipids
  • Membranes, Signal Transduction, and Digestion
  • Metabolism, Glycolysis, and Acetate
  • The Citric Acid Cycle and Oxidative Phosphorylation
  • Nucleic Acid Structure and DNA Replication
  • RNA synthesis, processing and regulation
  • Protein synthesis
Learning Objectives



 
  • Analyze and evaluate situations and problems using critical thinking skills.
  • Integrate and relate scientific concepts to personal experiences and the broader world.
  • Understand the iterative nature of science, recognizing current knowledge as a base for future research and scientific innovations.
  • Identify and appreciate the contributions of scientists from minoritized groups to the advancement of the field.
  • Comprehend the intricacy of life's chemical processes, and synthesize the roles biomolecules play within these processes.
  • Formulate judgments on how to contribute to the society by assessing and disseminating credible scientific information.
  • Explain the biological significance of biomolecules, distinguish their foundational components, and apply their chemical traits to elucidate their functions.
  • Analyze the structure/function relationship of biomolecules, and correlate these attributes with other biomolecular entities.
  • Describe the central dogma of molecular biology, understanding its essentiality for human life and its implications in health and disease.
  • Apply foundational equations to calculate and interpret energetics, buffering, and enzyme kinetics and inhibition.
  • Critique and reflect on the practical application of course concepts in laboratory settings and health professions.
Prerequisites




 

There are no required prerequisites for this course. This course assumes knowledge of basic biology and chemistry.

Format




 

This course is offered in an online asynchronous format. There are no set meeting times, however, students follow a weekly schedule and there will be deadlines to meet in terms of course requirements. This course cannot be completed at an accelerated rate.

Services for Students with Disabilities
 

Please submit your request and appropriate documentation at least 20 business days before the quarter begins to allow us time to review, approve and arrange your accommodations. For more information: visit Services for Students with Disabilities

 

Course Number: BIOL-40357
Credit: 4.50 unit(s)

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