Overall objectives:

1 - Know the molecular basis of life, through analysis of the composition, structure and function of biomolecules. Understand the characteristics and organization of the cell metabolism, as a manifestation of life.
2 - Understand the principles of composition, organization and function of biomolecules, and its role in cellular metabolism and vital activity of living beings.
3 - Understand the fundamentals, organization, regulatory mechanisms, homeostasis and integrity of cell metabolism
4 - Acquire methods of study and individual and team work.
5 - Acquire knowledge independently, demonstrating readiness for continuous learning.
6 - Demonstrate factual and specific knowledge of concepts, principles and theories of Biochemistry.
7 - Demonstrate the ability to interpret scientific results and critically evaluate materials science­based and ethical sense.
8 - Be able to apply knowledge in solving quantitative and qualitative problems.

Syllabus:

1 - Introduction to Functional Biochemistry.
2 - Structure and function of proteins. Diversity, composition, structure and functions.
3 - Introduction to the functioning of the enzymes.
4 - Metabolism of amino acids. Catabolism. Major metabolic pathways (degradation pathways of different amino acid families, urea cycle). Anabolism (transamination, synthesis of essential and non­essential amino acids). Cellular energetic balance synthesis and use of energy. Organization, integration and regulation.
5 - Protein synthesis, processing and addressing. Post-translational processing and protein folding.
6 - Metabolism of nitrogen bases and other nitrogenous substances. Catabolism. Main metabolic pathways (catabolism of nitrogen bases). Anabolism (purine and pyrimidine synthesis). Cellular energetic balance synthesis and use of energy. Organization, integration and regulation.
7 - Introduction to Proteomics and Metabolomics.

Literature/Sources:

A. Quintas, A. Freire , 2008 , Bioquímica - Organização Molecular da Vida , Lidel - Edições Técnicas, Lda
B. B. Buchanan, W. Gruissem, R. J. Jones , 2015 , Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Plants , John Wiley & Sons
D. L. Nelson, M. M. Cox , 2008 , Lehninger. Principles of Biochemistry , New York. W. H. Freeman and Company
A. Hoffman, S. Clokie Editors , 2018 , Wilson and Walker's Principles and Techniques of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology , Cambridge University Press. 8th Ed

Assesssment methods and criteria:

Classification Type: Quantitativa (0-20)

Evaluation Methodology:
This course comprises theoretical (T) and laboratorial (PL) classes. The T classes include teaching with multimedia presentation of specific contents. The discussion of the program specific contents is promoted. A theme on biochemistry will be assigned to each student for further individual work and bibliographic search, which will be used to prepare a report. The PL classes involve the execution of experimental protocols, aiming to perform the demonstration and study of some aspects of cellular metabolism. All experimental works are carried out in group. Students assessment includes: a) written test, to assess the acquired individual knowledge and skills (40% weight); b) scientific report, to evaluate the ability to acquire and critically systematize specific information (25% weight); c) experimental work, to assess the ability to plan and execute practical teamwork, data systematizing and processing, results interpretation and communication in written from (35% weight).