Biochemistry

General aims of the course:
1.To introduce students to the molecular design of life, including structural and biological properties of the main constituents of organisms;
2. To describe the molecular basis of the main biological processes, with particular emphasis on the metabolic fate of the lipidic, proteic and glycidic components of food and the role of vitamins;
3. To introduce students to the main molecular biology mechanisms, including DNA replication, RNA and protein synthesis;
4. To introduce basic laboratory biochemical techniques

1- Knowledge and understanding: Students will acquire basic knowledge on the structure and function of the most
relevant biomolecules, including macromolecules, and of the main biological processes operating in animal cell, with special emphasis on the biological fate of the main components of nutrients and the mechanisms of energy production and storage; presentation of the basic mechanisms of molecular biology will result in understanding processes leading to the expression of genetic information. 
2-Ability to apply knowledge and understanding: At the end of the course the student must be able to distinguish the main metabolic fates of the proteic, lipidic and glycidic components of food, with particular emphasis on their relative role in energy production and storage. This basic knowledge will be indispensable in the courses of subsequent years, related to animal welfare. Knowledge of the theoretical and practical principles of basic biochemical techniques will allow understanding their importance in the analysis of biological samples and food.