KJM2400 Biochemistry Course description

The students will acquire knowledge about cells, biological macromolecules and the most important chemical reactions that take place in cells. They will also develop skills in protein and DNA analysis, and enzyme kinetics.

Language of instruction: Norwegian

The course has 5 ECTS of overlapping content towards STKD6610 Technology and Society, BIO 1070 Technology and Society I, ERGOB1070 Technology and Society I, FYB1070 Technology and Society I, RAD1070 Technology and Society I, SYKK1070 Technology and Society I, SYKP1070 Technology and Society I, TAB1070 Technology and Society I, VERB1070 Technology and Society I.

To take this course at least 30 ECTS from the 1.year in the bachelor programme must be passed. Approved laboratory course in KJM1400 Organic Chemistry and KJM1500 Physical Chemistry, or corresponding qualifications.

After completing the course, the student is expected to have achieved the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student:

• can explain the cell structure and the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
• can explain the structure and function of the most important biochemical molecules: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids
• can present different methods to analyze biochemical molecules, specially proteins
• can explain the structure and function of antibodies
• can explain the function of enzymes and understand basic enzyme kinetic theories
• can describe metabolic processes such as glycolysis, the citric acid cycle and the electron transport chain
• can explain DNA synthesis (replication), RNA synthesis (transcription) and protein synthesis (translation) in prokaryotic cells

Skills

The student is capable of:

• analyzing the protein concentration in a sample using spectroscopy
• identifying proteins using SDS-PAGE (gel electrophoresis)
• performing basic enzyme kinetic experiments
• performing restriction digestion of plasmid DNA and analysis of DNA using agarose gel electrophoresis
• performing health risk assessments and classifying chemical compounds and solutions
• planning and performing biochemical experiments
• communicating the results of laboratory experiments both orally and in writing

The course uses a blended learning approach, with a combination of attendance-based seminars and digital learning materials. Students will explore real-world cases emerging at the intersection of society, technology and their future profession.

The following coursework requirements must be approved in order for the student to take the exam:

1. A one-page outline including the topic and the structure of the final project report. The outline must be approved by the course coordinator/course teacher/supervisor within a set deadline. If the outline is not approved the first time, the student may submit a revised version within a second deadline.
2. One individual assignment with a word limit of 1700 words (+/- 10%). If the assignment are not approved the first time, the student may submit a revised version within a second deadline.

Individual project report (3000-4000 words). The report must be written in either English or a Scandinavian language.

The exam can be appealed.

New/postponed exam: In case of failed exam or legal absence, the student may apply for a new or postponed exam. New or postponed exams are offered within a reasonable time span following the regular exam. The student is responsible for applying for a new/postponed exam within the time limits set by OsloMet. The Regulations for new or postponed examinations are available in Regulations relating to studies and examinations at OsloMet.

All aids are permitted, as long as the rules for source referencing are followed.

Grade scale A-F

One examiner will be used. External examiners are used regularly.