OVERVIEW

The course is divided in two modules. In module 1, the main topics of chemistry are explored through the study of functional groups and reactions for the main classes of organic compounds, with a focus on (bio)macromolecules. In module 2, the functional and regulatory properties of these biological macromolecules are then discussed in relation to the main metabolic pathways in humans and to their diagnostic value.

AIMS AND CONTENT

LEARNING OUTCOMES

This course consists of two modules: Coordination Chemistry and Organic Chemistry, and Biochemistry.
The course aims to provide students with a solid foundation in coordination chemistry, organic chemistry, as well as biochemistry and clinical biochemistry. Students will develop an understanding of the structure and reactivity of organic compounds and macromolecules, metabolic pathways, and enzyme regulation, as well as the biochemical principles underlying diagnostic tools. Additionally, the course seeks to equip students with the language and the conceptual and technical knowledge required to collaborate effectively with professionals in the fields of medicine and biotechnology, particularly in the context of biomedical research and diagnostics.

PREREQUISITES

There are no specific requirements, but having a basic knowledge of chemistry is useful for adequate learning.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

Oral exam covering all the topics of the program, or two separate partial oral tests, corresponding to the topics of Chemistry (Module 1), first, and Biochemistry (Module 2). The exam related to the first module should be taken before the exam of the second module. The final exam result is the weighted average of the marks obtained in each module.

ASSESSMENT METHODS

At the end of the course, the student is required to demonstrate that the learning outcomes have been reached, having acquired operational skills and methodology for approaching problems related to the properties, structure and reactivity of complex biomolecules, especially in relation to applications of technological and medical-biological interest. The student will be able to connect different metabolic pathways, to discuss their cross-regulation and to describe the correlation among metabolic pathways in different organs. Finally, the student will be able to recognize the main metabolites with a diagnostic value and to describe methods of analysis currently in use.