Biochemistry

During this course, students get acquainted with the latest developments in diagnostic molecular pathology, both in theory and practice, and gain insight in the molecular biological concepts of diseases. Specific themes are used to describe the entire process, from obtaining tissues until diagnosis. Histological and immunohistochemical techniques are discussed, but the focus is on next generation molecular pathological approaches and techniques, sequence analysis, proteomics, laser microdissection, and  tissue-arrays. Student execution of these techniques and written scientific reports  are important aspects of this course. The course begins with a general introduction in the molecular pathology and accompanying genetic aspects, followed by specific themes on: cardiovascular and transplantation pathology; laboratory animal models in molecular pathology; genetic; and epigenetic aspects of tumor genesis.

This course consolidates year 1 organic and physical chemistry by reference to biological examples and shows students its relevance to cellular biochemical processes. It introduces mechanisms and thermodynamics of chemical processes in the cell, including central metabolic pathways, principles of enzyme and metalloenzyme active site catalysis, coenzyme chemistry, and thermodynamics of biochemical processes. It conveys the multidisciplinarity and role of chemical ideas in understanding biochemistry, and enable students to apply basic chemical principles in unfamiliar biochemical contexts to generate hypotheses. It also introduces key concepts of cell biology and protein structure.

The course describes pharmaceutical products and production, with an emphasis on physicochemical and chemical engineering questions. It also describes what happens to the drug product in the living organism when administered through different routes. The course focuses on different pharmaceutical formulations such as solutions, suspensions, emulsions, granulates, tablets, capsules, aerosols, and creams. The course gives an overview of the quality aspects of the pharmaceutical industry, and special requirements on the pharmaceutical industry when it comes to demands from authorities both Swedish and international. The laboratory assignments illustrate important formulation aspects and how to evaluate the quality and physical-chemical properties of the formulation.