BM1000:03
Introductory Biochemistry and Microbiology
Townsville, Cairns
36 lectures, 6 tutorials, 24 hours practicals. First semester (Townsville campus); July intensive block mode (Cairns campus).
Staff: Assoc. Professor R Hirst, Assoc. Professor D Yellowlees, Assoc. Professor W Shipton, Professor J Burnell.
Introduction to the foundational principles of biochemistry including molecular aspects of cell structure and function, the major molecular components of living systems, their synthesis and interconversion. This is addressed principally from a mammalian perspective. Introduction to the microbial world including highlights in the structure of cells and their functioning which have significant implications for biotechnology, disease processes and the control of organisms. Mechanisms of resistance to infectious diseases in animals and plants.
Learning Objectives:
- provide students with an understanding of the basic cell structures and the molecules that constitute these structures;
- introduce students to the dynamic aspects of metabolism, how cells acquire energy from their environment and utilise it in anabolism and motility;
- examine different methods of cell to cell communication;
- provide students with a basic understanding of microbes and how they function and communicate with other organisms;
- introduce students to the fundamental aspects of defence mechanisms found in living organisms.
Assessment by a three-hour examination at the end of semester (70%); tutorial and practical assignments (30%).