Introduction to Genes and Biochemistry (809C7) (option course for MSc students)
and Introduction to Biochemistry (C7130) (option course for year 1 Chemists and
V&E students)
Course Convenor : Dr Darren Thompson (d.thompson@sussex.ac.uk)
Course Description
This course will provide background knowledge of five basic units of Biochemistry and the
relationship between genes and proteins within the cell. Unit 1 deals with the molecules of
life, DNA, RNA, nucleotides and the central dogma of molecular biology. Unit 2 covers the
decoding of the genetic code through the processes of transcription and translation. Unit 3
deals with proteins, their structure properties and amino acid building blocks. Unit 4 deals
with enzymes and simple enzyme catalysed reactions. A drug design example is also
included ‘ Cycloxogenase, ibuprofen and the asprin story’. Unit 5 covers metabolism and
uses glycolysis and Kebbs cycle as examples of typical pathways – bioenergentics is
briefly introduced. The course is suitable for those with Chemisty A-level, a biology A-level
is not essential but is helpful. Where ever possible emphasis is placed on core principles
Mode: Each unit consists of a 2 hour seminar
Learning Outcomes

Explain the central dogma of molecular biology, and explain the composition and
function of DNA and RNA molecules within the cell.

To be become familiar with genetic differences between eukaryotes and
prokaryotes.

Define what an enzyme is and explain the nature of catalytic mechanisms.

Describe the basic mechanisms of energy metabolism and its importance.

Explain the significance of biological molecular recognition.
This is a modular course with a strong element of self study to assist you in gaining
familiarity with five core units of Biochemistry. It is suitable for chemists wanting to broaden
their knowledge of biochemistry and as an introduction to Biochemistry and Molecular
Biology.
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The course will run on Friday mornings from 9am to 11-00am in the SB121 (Silverstone
Building, next to Arts D). The first session will be a double lecture / workshop with a short
break in the middle. There are two alternative standard textbooks ‘Biochemistry and
Molecular Biology’ 2nd (Ed. by Elliott and Elliott) and ‘Lehninger - Principles of
Biochemistry’ (Nelson and Cox 5th Ed), both are available in the library – follow the
recommended reading in one of these.
Other textbooks can also be used:
e.g. Biochemistry. 5th Edition. Berg, Tymocko & Stryer. Freeman (2002), again use
chapter headings to follow the topics.
Course timetable of topics and recommended reading.
Study Unit
Week
Topic
Time and
venue
Reading
Chapters
1.
DNA & Gene
structure
1.
Nature and
structure of DNA,
introduction to
eukaryotic and
prokaryotic genes
Dr. Darren
Thompson
(DT)
9-11am
SB121
E&E Ch 20, or
L Ch 8 and 9.
Further study
E&E Ch 21 or L
Ch24
2.
Proteins
3.
2nd
Oct
The nature of
amino acids,
hierarchy of protein
structure and
folding
MCQ test
DT
How the chemical
message is
decoded first into
RNA then into a
protein
Cr Neil
Crickmore
(NC)
9-11am
SB121
8th Oct
4.
3.
Transcription
& Translation
4.
Enzymes
29th
Oct
5.
5thNo
v
7.
19th
Nov
5.
Metabolism
9.
3rd
Dec
10.
10th
Dec
Nature of catalysis
and molecular
recognition
Gycolysis, Krebbs
cycle and oxidative
phosporylation
MCQ Test( C7130
only)
9-11am
SB121
E&E Ch 3 or L
Ch 3 & 4
Will be
informed
lecture
Lecture
test
E&E Ch 22 and
Ch 24 or L Ch
26 & 27
Lecture
DT
9-11-00am
SB121
E&E Ch. 2 or L
5
Lecture
Dr. Louise
Serpell
(LCS)
9-11-00am
SB121
Will be
informed
E&E Ch. 9 or
L 14, 16 &19
Further study
E&E Ch. 1 & 8
2
test
ASSESMENT
Students on both C7130 and 809C7 will have a 1 hour MCQ test in week 4. This will count
for 30% of your overall module mark and will cover material covered in your first 2 topics.
Students on the C7130 course will have a MCQ test in week 10 and students taking
course 809C7 with have an MCQ test in the Spring term. This test will count as 70 % of
your overall module mark and will cover all material taught during the course.
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