Biochemistry

General aims of the course: (1) To introduce students to the molecular design of life, including structural and biological properties of the main constituents of organisms; (2) To describe the molecular basis of the main biological processes, with particular emphasis on the metabolic fate of the lipidic, proteic and glicidic components of food; (3) To detail molecular basis of energy production from the main food components under aerobic and anaerobic conditions; (4) To introduce students to the main molecular biology mechanisms, including DNA replication, RNA and protein synthesis; (5) To detail the structure-function relationship in proteins; (6) To introduce basic laboratory biochemical techniques.

1. Knowledge and understanding: the student, at the end of the course, will have to demonstrate to have basic knowledge relating to animal metabolism, with special emphasis on pets, in order to understand the structural/energetic/reserve role of the most relevant biomolecules. The student will also have to acquire knowledge relating to the structure and role of informational macromolecules (proteins and nucleic acids) as well as the main mechanisms involved in the regulation of biological processes. Theoretical-practical aspects of some basic biochemical laboratory techniques will also be presented.
2. Applying knowledge and understanding: At the end of the course, the student must be able to distinguish the main metabolic effects of the lipid, carbohydrate and protein components present in foods, with particular attention to their energy intake. This basic knowledge will be necessary to understand other aspects relating to animal welfare. Furthermore, the student must be able to understand some basic biochemical techniques useful in the analysis of biological samples.
3. Making judgments: the student must demonstrate the ability to critically argue the information acquired. During the course, students are encouraged to think about practical examples and group discussions.
4. Communication: the student must demonstrate the ability to use scientifically appropriate terminology, in particular concerning the terminology referring to the structure and function of the main biological molecules, metabolic processes, replication processes of DNA and the biosynthesis of RNA and proteins. The exercises and seminars will stimulate the ability to express oneself correctly and the ability to discuss scientifically with peers.
5. Lifelong learning skills: the student must demonstrate the ability to use the knowledge acquired to interpret structures of macromolecules and new metabolic pathways, searching scientific databases and critically organising new information.