CHE-441: Biochemistry I

First course in a sequence that studies the chemical processes within and related to living organisms. Biochemistry I is an introductory study of the structure and function of macromolecules (proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates, lipids, and coenzymes) and their roles in biological cells. The course begins with an introduction to amino acid and protein chemistry, then follows with a discussion of enzyme structure, function, and kinetics. Emphasis is placed on the organization of enzyme-catalyzed reactions into coordinated and regulated metabolic sequences. Other topics examined include the interaction between lipids and proteins to form biological membranes and the roles the biological membranes play in cells; carbohydrate, lipid metabolism, and hormonal regulation of these processes; and metabolic pathways. Prerequisites: A grade of "C" or better in CHE 314 and CHE 316. It is recommended that students have had BIO 153 prior to taking biochemistry.