General Biochemistry I

At the end of the course, students should be able to: 1. explain the structure of different macromolecules in biological system; 2. identify types of chemical reactions involving these macromolecules; 3. explain the various methods of isolation of these macromolecules; 4. estimate the effects of acids and alkalis on the macromolecules; 5. describe how to purify the macromolecules; and 6. discuss quantification of the various macromolecules.

Introductory chemistry of amino acids, their properties, reactions and biological functions. Classification of amino acids: neutral, basic and acidic; polar and non-polar; essential and non- essential amino acids. Peptides. Introductory chemistry and classification of proteins. Biological functions of proteins. Methods of their isolation, purification and identification. Primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary structures of proteins. Basic principles of tests for proteins and amino acids. Introductory chemistry of carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids. Nomenclature of nucleosides and nucleotides, effects of acid and alkali on hydrolysis of nucleic acids.