OVERVIEW

The two main topics covered in the course are: the biochemistry of muscle and the biochemistry of nutrition. These topics, already covered in the Biochemistry course of the Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science degree, are expanded and deepened.

The course covers all metabolic activities typical of skeletal and cardiac muscle tissue and their involvement in the production of the energy required for muscle contraction by emphasizing the metabolic differences of muscle fibers and the relationships between energy metabolism and the level of motor activity performed. Biochemistry of nutrition concepts on nutrients, their absorption and transport, micronutrients and vitamins are also explored.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The course aims to provide students with in-depth knowledge of the biochemistry of muscle through the study of enzymatic reactions typical of the skeletal and cardiac muscle system and to provide key concepts on the biochemistry of nutrition related to motor activity.

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

The analysis of the sporting act requires in-depth knowledge of the Biochemistry of muscle and the energy mechanisms underlying its activity (nutrients and energy sources, anaerobic glycolysis, aerobic metabolism, oxygen and lactic acid debt, correlation between sport and metabolism), in order to analyze performance and related issues more thoroughly.
After a quick review of the metabolic pathways involved in energy transduction in voluntary and involuntary muscle, emphasis will be placed on the different muscle fibers and their biochemical metabolism.  Energy metabolism activities during very intense muscle exercise and during prolonged muscle exercises will also be identified.

PREREQUISITES

Basic knowledge of major biochemical metabolic pathways.

TEACHING METHODS

The course will be taught with lectures and discussions with students to test the correlation between metabolic activities and an individual's daily activities. These discussions will also focus on the correlations between metabolic pathways and motor activities during intense muscle exercise. In addition, group work will be conducted in the classroom in preparation for the written exam.

In case of certification of specific learning disability, disability or other special educational needs, please contact both the Department contact person, Prof. Nicola Girtler, and the lecturer at the beginning of the lectures to agree on teaching and exam methods which, in compliance of the teaching objectives, take into account individual learning methods and provide suitable compensatory/dispensatory tools recognized by the University SLD Student Service.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

The course is divided into two phases. In the first phase, muscle fibers and their metabolism are studied, as well as the typical metabolic pathways of muscle necessary for the energy supply of contraction under conditions of special need. In the second phase the different nutrients and micronutrients and their metabolism are analyzed.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

No specific texts are available; teaching materials are provided by Professor in class and on AulaWeb.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

LESSONS

LESSONS START

I semester.

Class schedule

BIOCHEMISTRY MUSCLE

EXAMS

ASSESSMENT METHODS

Discussion with students during lectures and work in teams.