Course syllabus

Molekylär cellbiologi
Molecular Cell Biology

KMBF01, 15 credits, G2 (First Cycle)

Valid for: 2015/16
Decided by: Education Board C
Date of Decision: 2015-04-20

General Information

Main field: Technology.
Compulsory for: W2
Language of instruction: The course will be given in English

Aim

To provide basic, theoretical and practical, knowledge about the reactivity of chemical compounds and toxicity as well as to highlight the structure and function of living cells, in particular the microorganisms.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

Competences and skills
For a passing grade the student must

Judgement and approach
For a passing grade the student must

Contents

The course introduces the student to the fascinating world of living cells, in particular bacteria, their genetics and physiology. The course covers enzymatic catalysis, genome of cells, cellular transport mechanisms and techniques to detect, quantify, identify and cultivate different types of microorganisms. In addition, cellular energy metabolism is covered in order to give a deeper understanding of biogeochemical cycles. In connection to energy metabolism aspects of respiration and photosynthesis are exposed.

The laboratory exercises illustrate theoretical aspects of the course such as the reactivity of chemical compounds and toxicity, purification and characterisation of enzymes, and how microorganisms may adapt to new environments through genetic exchange. The diversity of microorganisms and functionality are illustrated by studying the morphology, physiology, and growth behaviour. The genetic expression and regulation is exemplified by determining the physiological adaptation of bacteria under different cultivation conditions. The influences of cytotoxic and antimicrobial compounds are studied on eukaryotic cells as well as on bacteria.

The chemical basis for how health-damaging and environmentally hazardous compounds are absorbed and metabolized by organisms and the mechanisms behind their effects are discussed thoroughly. Emphasis is put on relationships between structure, chemical properties, and biological effects.

Examination details

Grading scale: TH
Assessment: Written examination, written reports, oral presentation, and oral opposition.

Parts
Code: 0116. Name: Molecular Cell Biology, part 1 .
Credits: 9. Grading scale: UG. Assessment: For a passing the student must pass a written examination. Contents: Questions on the contents of the course.
Code: 0216. Name: Molecular Cell Biology, part 2 .
Credits: 6. Grading scale: UG. Assessment: For a passing the student must complete labs and labreports, pass a written home assignment, and complete and pass an oral presentation and opposition. Contents: Detailed laboratory reports. Detailed written account on a molecular level of a compound that affects humans and/or environment. Completed oral scientific in-depth presentation and defense of a focused subject related to the course content. Completed oral opposition of a presentation.

Admission

The number of participants is limited to: No
The course overlaps following course/s: KMB050

Reading list

Contact and other information

Course coordinator: Docent Lei Ye, Lei.Ye@tbiokem.lth.se
Course coordinator: Docent Ed van Niel, Ed.van_Niel@tmb.lth.se
Course coordinator: Professor Ulf Nilsson, ulf.nilsson@chem.lu.se
Course homepage: http://www.tmb.lth.se