Metabolism and Disease
COURSE SPECIFICATION
| Course Title: | Metabolism and Disease | Code: | BIOC0581 |
| Co-ordinator: | Dr Lauren Pecorino | Level: | 5 |
| School: | School of Science | Credits: | 15 |
| Department: | Life and Sports Science | ||
Aims
To provide an introduction to basic concepts in metabolism and the principles of metabolic pathways. To provide students with information on core metabolic pathways. To discuss relationships with metabolism and core disease pathways.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this course students will be able to: Discuss general issues related to regulation and integration of metabolic processes; Discuss the use of various metabolites as energy sources; Distinguish between major groups of metabolites; Identify the subcellular location of steps of selected metabolic pathways; Compare strategies involved in catabolism and anabolism of specific metabolites; Explain the metabolic basis of selected diseases. Skills Learning Outcomes: Recognise and apply subject specific theories, paradigms, concepts or principles e.g. link between metabolism and disease; Analyse, synthesise and summarise information (with evidence of comparative / critical appraisal); Apply knowledge and understanding to address problems. design plan conduct and report on investigation; Obtain, record and analyse data using appropriate techniques (working individually or as a group); Undertake investigations in a responsible, safe and ethical manner developing and adaptable, flexible, and effective approach to study and work; Communicate about their subject appropriately cite and reference work in an appropriate manner; Use the internet and other electronic sources critically as a means of communication and a source of information; Demonstrate self-management skills for lifelong learning; demonstrate an adaptable, flexible, and effective approach to study and work.
Indicative Content
Principles of metabolism and metabolic pathways, including regulation (e.g. hormonal); Inter-relationships between anabolism and catabolism; Metabolic significance of compartmentalisation in eukaryotic cells; Bioenergetics: Thermodynamics of metabolism; equilibrium and non-equilibrium reactions; The role of ATP; Enzyme kinetics; the role of co-factors and co-enzymes; Specific metabolic pathways will be covered e.g.: Glycosis; Gluconeogenesis; glycogen metabolism; b-oxidation pathway; TCA cycle and associated anaplerotic pathways; Electron transport chain; Oxygen free radical metabolism; Amino acid metabolism; purine and pyrimidine nucleotide metabolism; In the context of metabolic processes, a range of diseases will be discussed, for example: kwashiorkor, gout, phenylketonuria, Lesch-Nyhan syndrome, Parkinson's disease, tyrosinaemia, glycogen storage disease (type V): McArdles syndrome, diseases due to oxygen free radical damage.
Teaching & Learning Activity
These include lectures, laboratory practicals and tutorials. Lectures will cover arrange of metabolic pathways and provide a basis for discussions on various diseases. Weekly tutorials will offer opportunities to discuss material covered during lectures. Tutorials will include revision and problem solving exercises based on lecture material.
Assessment
Coursework: 25% Short answer/essay test and 25% Practical. Examination: 50%
150311