Biochemistry III (Molecular Cell Biology): I127
Language: Dutch Aims
Insight in the processes that cells allow to function, either as an entity either as part of an organism. This is rooted in an understanding of the molecules and reactions within cells and of the interactions between cells that allow construction of multicellular organisms. Much emphasis is given to the experimental approach.
Contents
The first part deals with the cell cycle in eukaryotes and the regulation thereof. Special emphasis is given to activation of regulatory proteins, protein-protein interactions, and proteolytic breakdown of proteins. This part ends with current views on apoptosis.
Part two deals with molecular aspects of developmental biology, with case studies from yeast, plants and animals. Special focus is given to the various signal transduction pathways, and the integration of various pathways in time and space.
Part three explains the working principles of so-called protein machines. The ribosomes, proteasomes and the cytoskeleton are given as examples.
Part four describes the biogenesis of cell organelles and focuses on the transport and sorting of proteins. Folding, misfolding and unfolding of proteins is discussed in detail. As a special case, the molecular biology of prions is discussed.
Part five concentrates on the biochemical functions of a select number of highly specialized cells. Special emphasis is given to developmental and metabolic control.
Teaching activities 30 h of lectures
Exam
Oral exam with written preparation
Course material
Textbook: Molecular Cell Biology, H. Lodish et al., 1999, 4th Edition. W.H. Freeman and company.
A supplementary web page with links for illustrations used by the lecturer (such as 3D structures, animations) is made available.
