Life History of Proteins

Code

LIFE3093

School

Life Sciences

Level

3

Credits

10

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

The course covers the life history of proteins from birth (synthesis) to death (degradation), and how this goes wrong in common diseases such as cancer and neurodegeneration. On this journey, other major aspects of protein development, distribution and death will be discussed at a molecular level including protein folding, the cytoskeleton, protein and vesicle trafficking including endocytosis, post-translational modification and protein degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome and autophagy. Key concepts will be illustrated via selected case studies. This module covers fundamental aspects of molecular cell biology that are essential for health and disease and will explain both normal protein life and what goes wrong in common diseases where defects in these processes are the root cause of pathology.

Target Students

Available to all students registered for a Single Honours degree in Biochemistry with or without another subject. Available to JYA/Erasmus students. Students from other degree courses need the module convenors’ permission in writing to select this module and may be removed from the enrolment without this..

Classes

This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc.

Assessment

• 100% Exam (2-hour): Essay based examination

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the module students will understand the molecular processes that a protein can undergo during its life from synthesis to degradation. Development of the ability to extend knowledge through private study. Development of the ability to collate and present information in the form of an essay. Integration and concise representation of knowledge. Use of the library. Critical analysis of research data. Communication skills.

Conveners

• Dr Alistair Hume
• Dr Simon Dawson