Analytical Biochemistry, 15 credits

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and comprehension
After having completed the course the student shall

• have basic biochemical knowledge about the metabolism of biomolecules, energy transformations in the cell and the intracellular information flow, including knowledge about how the genetic material is copied and expressed, and
• be able to describe theories for PCR-based and immunological methods as well as for protein analyses.

Skills and abilities
After having completed the course the student shall

• obtain skills in basic biochemical analytical methods and their practical applications,
• be able to independently interpret the self-produced data,
• be able to communicate the obtained results to others in the form of oral and written presentation, and
• be able to assess and summarize the research articles in the field of analytical biochemistry.

Values and attitude
After having completed the course the student has ability to

• choose and implement a series of biochemical assays such as PCR, ELISA, western blot and protein spectroscopy,
• critically evaluate both experimental data and theoretical interpretations, and
• search and evaluate relevant scientific information in the field of analytical biochemistry.

Content

• Information flow in the cell such as replication, transcription and translation as well as regulation of gene expression,
• catabolism and anabolism of carbohydrates,
• energy conversion and photosynthesis,
• regulation of cell metabolism,
• analytical methods such as DNA, RNA and protein purification and separation techniques, measurement of enzymatic activity, production of recombinant proteins, PCR, immunological methods for detection of proteins and protein spectroscopy,
• risk and safety elements.

Examinations and grades

Theory, 10 credits (Code: A001)
Grades used are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Practicals, 5 credits (Code: A002)
Grades used are Fail (U) or Pass (G).

According to the Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 18, a grade is to be awarded on the completion of a course, unless otherwise prescribed by the university. The university may determine which grading system is to be used. The grade must be determined by a teacher specifically nominated by the university (the examiner).

In accordance with university regulations on grading systems for first and second-cycle courses and study programmes (Vice-Chancellor’s decision ORU 2018/00929), one of the following grades is to be used: fail (U), pass (G) or pass with distinction (VG). For courses included in an international master’s programme (60 or 120 credits) or offered to the university’s incoming exchange students, the A to F grading scale is to be used. The vice-chancellor, or a person appointed by them, may decide on exceptions from this provision for a specific course, if there are special grounds for doing so.

The grades used on this course are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Comments on grades

To obtain a pass grade for the course as a whole, a minimum of grade E is required for all theoretical modules on the course as well as Pass (G) on the project work and all obligatory seminars. The final course grade is based on the result of the theoretical part.

Modes of assessment

• Theory (code A001): Written exam
• Practicals (code A002): Practical examination, written assignment and oral examination

If a student is absent from a mandatory course component, the examiner determines if the student will be able to make up for the component during another scheduled class of the same kind. Otherwise, the student is referred to the next time the course is offered. As an exception the examiner may decide on substitute assignments. These shall then be carried out before or shortly after the end of the course.

For students with a documented disability, the university may approve applications for adapted or other modes of assessment.

For further information, see the university's local examination regulations.

Specific entry requirements

45 Credits in Chemistry, including Analytical Chemistry and Biochemistry. Additionally another 15 Credits in Chemistry or Biology.

For further information, see the university's admission regulations.

Other provisions

The course will be given partly or entirely in English.

Students who have been admitted to and registered on a course have the right to receive tuition and/or supervision for the duration of the time period specified for the particular course to which they were accepted (see, the university's admission regulations (in Swedish)). After that, the right to receive tuition and/or supervision expires.

Reading list and other learning resources

Required Reading

Nelson, David L. & Cox, Michael M. (Latest Edition)
Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry
W.H. Freeman and company, New York

Additions and Comments on the Reading List

Laboratory manuals and other handouts will be added.