CY2E2: Animal Systems

Module Provider:

School of Systems Engineering

Number of credits:

10 [5 ECTS credits]

Level:

I (Intermediate)

Terms in which taught:

Spring

Module Convenor:

Dr RJ Mitchell

Pre-requisites:

SE1CA5

Co-requisites:

Modules excluded:

Module version for:

2006/7

Aims:
The module aims to discuss fundamental biophysical and biochemical feedback processes in animals.

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module the students will be able to describe the feedback processes in animal systems at the fundamental biomolecular cellular and tissue level.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:
The module covers various themes, as follows. Conformation and dynamics: Protein structure and function, oxygen transporters hemoglobin and myoglobin, enzyme function, digestive enzymes and clotting factors, connective-tissue proteins, biological membranes. Generation and storage of metabolic energy: glycolysis, citric acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, gluconeogenesis, fatty acid metabolism, amino-acid degradation and the urea cycle. Biosynthesis of macromolecular precursors: Membrane lipids, steroid hormones, amino-acids, nucleotides and their integration to metabolism. Storage transmission and expression of genetic information, and the science of bioinformatics: DNA, genetic role and replication, messenger RNA and transcription, the genetic code and gene-protein relations, protein synthesis, chromosome function and control of gene expression, viruses, gene rearrangements via recombination, transposition and cloning using genetic engineering, the human genome project and genetic code, string searching using computers, a bioinformatics approach to evolution. Interaction of information, conformation and metabolism in physiological feedback processes: bacteria, immunoglobulins, muscle contraction and cell motility, hormone action, membrane transport, excitable membranes and sensory systems.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
The module comprises 2 lectures per week.

Contact hours:

Assessment:
Coursework
None
Relative percentage of coursework : N/A
Examinations
One 2 hour paper.
Requirements for a pass
A mark of 40% overall
Reassessment arrangements
Re-examination in September.