00061 - Biochemistry (D)

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student will be aware of the basis of Metabolic Biochemistry in human tissues and diseases.

Course contents

This course is part of the Biochemistry integrated course. Each student will acquire essential molecular basis for studying the physiology and pathology of human diseases.

Metabolic biochemistry

Glucose metabolism

Citric acid cycle (TCA or Krebs cycle): reactions, energetic yield, regulation. Amphibolic role of the cycle. Glycogen metabolism: glycogenesis, glycogenolysis and regulation. Gluconeogenesis: primary glucogenic precursors, reactions, and storage. Coordinated regulation of glycogen synthesis and degradation. Coordinated regulation of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis. Pentose phosphate pathway.

Bioenergetics

Mitochondrial structure and the internal membrane: oxidative phosphorylation. Electron flow through the respiratory chain: formation of electro chemical potential, proton gradient usage; 1) ATP synthase and chemiosmotic mechanism of ATP synthesis. Respiratory control. Inhibitors and uncouplers. 2) Ca²⁺ and metabolite transport through the internal membrane. 3) NAD+/NADPH transhydrogenase. 4) Thermogenesis. Electron dispersion and radical oxygen species.

Nitrogen metabolism

Description of kinetics, control, and regulation of nitrogen metabolism. Amino acid oxidations and urea production.

1. Metabolic fate of amine groups
2. Nitrogen excretion and urea cycle
3. Amino acid degradation
4. Biosynthesis of amino acids, nucleotides, and related molecules.
5. Nitrogen metabolism
6. Amino acid biosynthesis
7. Amino acid derivatives
8. Nucleotide biosynthesis and degradation

Readings/Bibliography

The text books will be indicated during lessons.

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons.

Assessment methods

Oral exam.

Teaching tools

Supplemental material is provided during lessons.

Office hours

See the website of Valentina Giorgio