Examiner: 8751 Professor Tore Vänngård
Within biophysics, problems involving biological systems are considered using concepts and methods from physics. The field is strongly developing, especially within molecular biophysics as the molecular understanding of life increases.
AIM OF SUBJECT
The course gives an introduction to the structure and function of the most important biomolecules, and illustrates some recent problem areas within molecular biophysics.
CONTENT
Forces keeping biomolecules together and their special biological importance (hydrogen bond, hydrofobic effects, etc.).
Water, an important biomolecule.
Structure of nucleic acids.
Structure and function of genes. Gene technology. The human genome.
Structure and function of proteins. Methods to study their spatial structure and sequences.
Structure and dynamics of membranes. Transport through membranes.
Spectroscopic methods in biophysics (x-ray methods, optical absorption, magnetic resonance, etc.).
Electron and energyd transport: photosynthesis.
About 8 laboratory sessions, largely computer based, illustrating the properties of the myoglobin protein: DNA- and protein sequence, molecular graphics, molecular orbital calculations, crystallography, magnetic resonance (NMR), optical absorption, the function of nerves.
LITERATURE
Compendium provided by the Department.
EXAMINATION
Written or oral examination.