Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Students must have knowledge of Organic Chemistry, namely the structure of functional groups and stereochemistry.

Theoretical classes will be oriented towards the understanding of the theoretical foundations of the curricular unit, being complemented with theoretical-practical classes for the resolution of questions. In the theoretical classes the exposition of the subject will be made through the use of a slide projection system in powerpoint and some active learning methodologies will be applied, namely the flipped learning and the use of collaborative tools. In the theoretical-practical classes, worksheets on the different chapters taught will be solved. Students are encouraged to participate during theoretical and theoretical-practical classes. At the end of the theoretical-practical classes, the answers to the proposed questions and the framed topics will be discussed. All study material will be made available through the “Inforestudante” platform.

The main objective of this course is to provide students with the fundamental concepts of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. It is intended thus, that the students be able to: i) characterize the structure and function of the main biological macromolecules; ii) adequately communicate the knowledge acquired about cellular metabolism; iii) Identify the main processes of regulation and control of metabolic pathways; iv) describe the various processes of storage and expression of genetic information in the cell.

1. Review of Organic Chemistry concepts. Functional groups and Stereochemistry.

2. Biological macromolecules: Aqueous medium, solubility and pH. Structure and function of biological macromolecules. Proteins,  carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids.

3. Cellular metabolism and regulation.

 4.Molecular Biology.

Students may choose between continuous assessment or final exam assessment.

Continuous assessment

1. Completion of exercises, individually and/or in pairs, developed during theoretical and theoretical-practical classes (30% of the final grade).

2. Written exam (70% of the final grade).

The grade obtained in the in-class exercises is valid for both the regular and the resit examination periods.

Final exam assessment (100%)

Written exam worth 100% of the final grade.

- Consultation of any materials and the use of calculators are not permitted, either in the in-class exercises or in the examination tests.

NAO