KJB200 Biochemistry

This course provides a broad introduction to biochemistry. Central to biochemistry is understanding how living organisms transform energy and matter (metabolism), and how these processes are regulated.

In the initial weeks, students will be introduced to key concepts of energy, structure and function, and the storage of biological information. By thoroughly examining the various structures and properties of the building blocks that form proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and DNA, the foundation is laid for understanding metabolism at a molecular level. The focus then shifts towards metabolism itself, highlighting energy flow in biological processes and their regulation.

Emphasis is placed on students' understanding of how biochemical processes are linked to natural cycles, particularly those influencing climate and ecosystem stability, and being able to draw parallels to challenges associated with achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Most of the teaching is activity-based, emphasizing problem-solving and the use of digital tools to enhance understanding of biochemical topics (for example, visualizing biomolecules) and group-based tasks.

Throughout the course, students will participate in project-based group work. Everyone will engage in a multi-week project, working collaboratively in smaller groups to address the project assignment.

Knowledge:

After completing the course, the student should have an understanding of:

• General principles on how energy and mass are converted in biochemical reactions
• How central biomolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats and DNA are built up, and what functions and chemical properties they have
• What enzymes are and how they catalyze biochemical reactions
• How central biomolecules are metabolized in the body (metabolism/ cellular respiration)
• How biochemical reactions are regulated and what homeostasis is
• How biological membranes are constructed and how signals and molecules are transmitted across such barriers.

Skills:

After completing the course, the studente should have the ability to recognize biomolecules and understand energy transfer and genetic information storage. Students should have basic knowledge of how to use basic bioinformatic tools and to visualize molecules. The students should also be able to reflect and critically think within these topics, and be able to use the information to work with broad biochemistry related projects.

General competence:

After completing KJB200, students will have a general, biomolecular expertise and a general knowledge of metabolism and genetic information storage. This will make students ready for further courses in, for example, biochemistry, molecular biology, nutrition and natural chemistry.