James P. Burke, Ph.D., Associate Professor
Definition
Biochemistry is the study of the molecular basis of life. It is the study of molecular processes which are fundamental for the functioning and maintenance of tissues and organs.
Have a thorough knowledge of the types of molecules involved in the structure and metabolism of the human body.
Understand how, through catabolism and anabolism, energy is made available to the body and used both for activity and synthesis of structural components.
Appreciate the significance of dietary components in maintaining the normal structure and metabolism of the human body.
Understand how biochemical malfunctions can lead to pathological conditions with special emphasis on such diseases as diabetes, gout and the hereditary biochemical alterations.
Have a working knowledge of those biochemical processes whose measurements in patients are of clinical significance. These would include mechanisms of blood clotting, serum protein formation, control of blood glucose levels, acid and base equilibria and their relationship to respiration, etc.
Have sufficient feeling for the subject that he will be able to appreciate the biochemical relationships of pathology, pharmacology of microbiology which he meets later in his work.
Purpose
The purpose of the course is to relate biochemical principles to the art of healing. Biochemical events sustain all bodily functions and an understanding of biochemical pathways enhances the ability to understand physiology, pathology and pharmacology.