BIOCHEMISTRY 551 is an integrated lecture, lab
and seminar course that covers biochemistry-centered theory and
techniques. The course is designed for upper-level undergraduate
students majoring in Biochemistry. Students learn how to apply a broad
range of biochemical, genetic, and physical techniques to modern
biochemical research. Students also learn how to analyze and interpret
the primary scientific literature, develop an understanding of the
communication of data, and extrapolate biochemical techniques to basic
research. Lectures introduce concepts and theory that are
subsequently explored in detail in experiments. The experiments are
designed to provide hands-on experience with instruments and techniques
that are used in modern biochemical research.
The curriculum incorporates a small research project beginning with the PCR amplification and cloning of the HCAII gene,
which codes for human carbonic anhydrase II (HCAII). As the semester
progresses, students overexpress, purify and assay HCAII protein.
Experiments focus on instrumental techniques including PCR,
spectrophotometry, gel electrophoresis, protein overexpression and
purification, enzyme assays and fluorescence spectroscopy.
Learning Objectives
By the end of Biochemistry 551, students should be able to:
1. Explain the theory of several fundamental biochemical techniques
2. Form hypotheses based on biochemical principles
3. Design and perform experiments to collect sound scientific data
4. Critically analyze one's own data as well as data from other sources
5. Communicate scientific findings in both oral and written form
6. Value the collaborative nature of biochemistry