Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
Knowledge of structure and function in biological systems underpins the biomedical and biological sciences and is underpinned by the chemical structures, reactions and interactions of the molecules involved. In this module all these key elements are brought together, illustrated by examples from major biological pathways and processes studied in complimentary modules. Core material will be delivered on-line to maximise flexibility and inclusivity. Topics covered will include: atomic and molecular structure, biological macromolecules, interactions and reactions, metal chemistry in biological systems and a selection of analytical approaches. Online material is fully supported with regular, live tutorials and workshops which will provide you an opportunity to explore these topics in more detail with your tutors and fellow students. You can take part in live seminars, interactive group discussions, molecular graphics demonstrations to explore 3D structures in detail, tutorials, problem solving and workshop sessions specifically directed towards both the analytical approaches taught across this module and the 3-D structure of selected macromolecular building blocks. These analytical approaches have many applications throughout the chemical, biological and biomedical sciences in both postgraduate study and industry. The concepts and ideas that you will explore will also support and enhance your other Level 4 modules, and provide a firm basis for future modules at Levels 5 and 6.
Aims
The aim of the module is to impart knowledge of and promote understanding of structure, bonding and polymerisation in biological macromolecules and their constituent building blocks, alongside analytical approaches for their characterisation and key chemical reactions and interactions which underpin structure and function in the biosciences.
Intended Learning Outcomes
recognise the relationship between Lewis notation, atomic and molecular orbitals, hybrids, valency, bonds and stereochemistry in simple organic molecules and biologically important functional groups: 1explain, compare and contrast structure, bonding and stereochemistry in proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, oligo/poly saccharides and lipids and their constituent building blocks: 1describe in outline, the methodology, advantages and limitations of methods used to determine protein structure, in particular x-ray crystallography: 1explain the roles and interactions of metals in selected biological systems: 1describe the instrumentation and methodology of various analytical techniques including mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and chromatography: 1analyse and interpret experimental data from some or all of the following analytical techniques: mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, chromatography: 1describe in detail, using appropriate chemical notation, the catalytic and regulatory strategies of enzymes, the roles of cofactors and coenzymes in activity and the reaction mechanism of named enzymes including proteases and kinases: 1demonstrate knowledge of the structure, reactions, interactions and roles of important functional groups in the context of the structure and function of biological macromolecules: 1recognise and explain, using appropriate chemical notation, standard biochemical reactions including substitution, addition, elimination and condensation: 1
14 hours live sessions (demonstrations, seminars, tutorials, discussions, workshops)12x 5 hours engagement with asynchronous material02 hours (2 x 1) formative class tests in open book 9-5 session format02 Hours end of module examination in an open book 9-5 session format72 Hours independent study including preparation for formative tests and final exam.
Description of Module Assessment
1: Open Book Examination weighted 100%Online open book examThe exam paper will be released on KLE as a word document at 9am on the morning of the exam with the requirement to submit through Turnitin by 5pm. International students will be asked to notify the School if they need an extension due
to different time zones.
The exam paper will consist of compulsory short answer questions and MCQs (60% contribution to total mark) and one essay style question from a choice of three (40% contribution to the total mark). The recommended length for each essay answer will be stated on the exam paper as 500-750 words. We recommend that students do not exceed 750 words per essay-based question as we will be assessing the quality of the answer, not the quantity.
Although students have been given significant time to complete the exam script, we expect most students to spend no more than 2 hours. Answers should be as accurate and concise as possible. Additional time has been given simply to provide a more flexible and inclusive approach, for example, required for students with disability, specific learning requirements, caring responsibilities and so on.