Bioenergetics, Structure and Synthesis

Description

This module will help you to understand the structures and functions of proteins and how free energy is made available from either light or reduced organic carbon compounds to generate ATP and NADPH for biosynthetic metabolism. We'll start by explaining how solar energy entering the biosphere is harvested by chlorophyll pigments. You'll learn how photosynthesis converts solar energy into ATP and NADPH, using the same redox chemistry and chemiosmotic principles that underlie respiration. From fixation of CO2, we progress to take a look at the key anabolic pathways in the cell including the Krebs cycle, pentose phosphate pathway and fatty acid synthesis. We also explore how reduced nitrogen is created and then utilised to form amino acids and nucleotides, the building blocks of life. Teaching methods: Lectures, Laboratory work, Independent Study Assessment: Formal Exam, Course work