Biochemistry I (CHEM251) Fall 2023 Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to Biochemistry I

This syllabus outlines the structure, objectives, and expectations for Biochemistry I (CHEM251). The course introduces students to the chemical and organic principles underlying biochemistry, focusing on biomolecules, their structure, function, and metabolism.

• Instructor: Dr. Dinari Harris

• Location: Chemistry Building, Room G14

• Lecture Times: Monday/Wednesday, 4:30-6:00pm

• Textbook: Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry (Nelson & Cox, 2017, recommended)

• Workbook: Foundations of Biochemistry (Lortscher et al., 2015, not required)

• Prerequisites: Organic Chemistry I & II (CHEM141 & CHEM142)

Course Objectives

Learning Goals

The course aims to provide a comprehensive overview of introductory biochemistry. Students will learn about the structure and function of biomolecules, metabolic pathways, and the chemical principles that govern biological systems.

• Understand the structure and function of major biomolecules: amino acids, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids.

• Comprehend the chemical principles underlying enzyme kinetics and mechanisms.

• Explore the metabolic pathways and their regulation.

• Apply biochemical knowledge to experimental techniques and data interpretation.

Course Structure

Instructional Methods

The course uses a blend of lectures, online assignments, and workbook exercises. Students are expected to attend lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments through the Achieve platform.

• Lectures: Core content delivery and discussion.

• Achieve Macmillan: Online assignments and adaptive quizzes.

• Workbook: Supplemental exercises (not required).

• Exams: Four in-class exams and a cumulative final.

Grading and Assignments

Assessment Breakdown

Grades are based on exams, quizzes, participation, and assignments. Extra credit is available for each exam and the cumulative final.

Component	CHEM251
In-class Exams	60%
Adaptive Quizzes (Achieve)	10%
Participation	10%
Foundations of Biochemistry	10%
Cumulative Final	10%

Note: Extra credit is given on all exams and the cumulative final. No other extra credit opportunities will be offered.

Course Topics

Weekly Outline

The course is organized into chapters covering the foundational topics in biochemistry:

• Chapter 1: Foundations of biochemistry

• Chapter 2: Water

• Chapter 3: Amino acids, peptides, and proteins

• Chapter 4: Protein structure

• Chapter 5: Protein function

• Chapter 6: Enzymes

• Chapter 7: Carbohydrates and glyobiology

• Chapter 8: Nucleotides and nucleic acids

Exams and Policies

Exam Schedule

Exam	Date	Chapters Covered
Exam 1	Wednesday, Sep 20	Chapters 1-2
Exam 2	Wednesday, Oct 18	Chapters 1-4
Exam 3	Wednesday, Nov 12	Chapters 5-6
Exam 4	Monday, Dec 4	Chapters 7-8
Cumulative Final	TBA	All chapters

Policy: No make-up exams will be given except for documented emergencies.

Participation and Attendance

Expectations

Regular attendance and active participation are required. Participation is tracked and contributes to the final grade.

• Sign-in required for participation credit.

• Engagement in class discussions and activities is encouraged.

Supplementary Resources

Recommended Videos and Links

Supplementary videos and online resources are provided to reinforce key concepts. These include YouTube channels and educational websites.

• Mandi Parker's YouTube page

• Scitable (Nature Education)

• Khan Academy (YouTube)

• Dr. Elmar YouTube page

• Professor Dave Explains (YouTube)

• Biochemistry online textbooks and protein structure resources

Study Tips

How to Succeed in Biochemistry

• Read the suggested chapters and lecture notes before class.

• Highlight important concepts and make connections between topics.

• Form study groups and discuss concepts with peers.

• Practice problem-solving and review workbook exercises.

• Seek help from the instructor during office hours as needed.

Key Terms and Concepts

Definitions

• Biomolecule: Any molecule produced by living organisms, including proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, and lipids.

• Enzyme: A biological catalyst that speeds up chemical reactions in cells.

• Metabolism: The sum of all chemical reactions that occur within a living organism.

• Protein Structure: The three-dimensional arrangement of amino acids in a protein, determining its function.

Formulas and Equations

Sample Equations

• Michaelis-Menten Equation (Enzyme Kinetics):

$v = \frac{V_{max}[S]}{K_m + [S]}$

• pH Calculation:

$pH = -\log[H^+]$

• Gibbs Free Energy:

$\Delta G = \Delta H - T\Delta S$

Additional Info

Additional info: The syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, grading, and expectations. Students are encouraged to use supplementary resources and actively participate to succeed in Biochemistry I.