Biochemistry in Animal Systems

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2016:

170 hours

One of the following:

None.

None.

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability

An understanding of the chemical processes that occur in living organisms is essential to understanding how plants, animals and microbes function, and therefore the best management practices that will result in optimal health and productivity. This subject is designed to introduce students to the discipline of biochemistry, to allow them to develop a basic understanding of the biological chemistry underpinning function at the cellular and system levels. Topics covered will include: cellular structure and biochemical function, structure of biomolecules including proteins, lipids and carbohydrates, energy generating pathways, photosynthesis, metabolism, fixation and assimilation of nitrogen, transformation of metals, phosphorus and sulphur, comparative metabolism in ruminants and avians and the regulation of metabolism by hormones and isoprenoids.

On completion of this subject, students should:

• Be familiar with the terminology of biochemistry
• Understand the principles and important information regarding the chemical structures and properties of cellular constituents, and the correlation of structure with function
• Comprehend the interrelationships of metabolic pathways and biochemical reactions between organism and tissue systems
• Develop skills in the organization, analysis and interpretation of biochemical data

• Four written reports (up to 500 words each) based on workshops due during the semester worth a total of 25%
• A one-hour written examination held mid-semester worth 30%
• A two-hour written exam to be held in the end-of-semester exam period worth 45%

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject, students should have developed the following generic skills:

• Organization, analysis and evaluation of data
• Working collaboratively with other students
• Respect of intellectual integrity