Protein Biochemistry (BCH 303)

What is the main purpose for this course?
 Proteins are undoubtedly one of the most important molecules in living organism. This course introduces biochemistry by describing the physical and chemical activities of proteins and their functions in cells. To familiarize students with basic knowledge of protein biochemistry needed for higher level courses. This course covers the details of amino acid as the building blocks of protein. Protein synthesis and folding, protein structure, structural and functional classification of proteins, the introduction to enzymes and metabolism. Techniques in protein chemistry and analysis, including Protein purification, Protein quantification, Amino Acid Analysis, Protein Sequencing Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics are introduced together with key experiments which reveal the physical and chemical basis of the functioning of proteins. The practical course will nurture technical skills in biochemistry and will include protein preparation, the analysis of protein structure and enzymatic assays.
Briefly describe any plans for developing and improving the course that are being implemented. (e.g. increased use of IT or web based reference material, changes in content as a result of new research in the field) Continuous development and improvement in the course is warranted.

1. This is achieved by changes made in the course, keeping in view the increase in the application of biochemistry in medicine, agriculture, food industry, pharmaceutical industry etc.
2. Allocating a longer time span to problem solving especially from the websites of highly categorized universities and from the three recommended text books. Practicing the problem solving put the KSU student in parallel to the international students studying the subject.
3. Developing computer-based PowerPoint Presentations to support the lecture course material
4. Assigning students to gain knowledge from the scientific websites that present animations, videos etc on the subject.
5.  The practical part is being reviewed and modified.