BIC-30803 Advanced Methods in Biochemical Research

Vak

Studiepunten 3.00

Language of instruction:

English

Assumed knowledge on:

BIC 20304

Continuation courses:

Thesis Biochemistry

Contents:

The student is introduced into some of the advanced research methods that are employed in modern biochemistry, especially with respect to unravelling protein interactions in vivo (in the cell) and in vitro. Interactions of proteins with different proteins and other cellular components are pivotal in unravelling signal transduction pathways, regulatory processes and other biochemical processes in cells, tissues and whole organisms. Such pathways control a variety of processes in cell functioning, developmental regulation, regulation of digestive routes, etc. Deviations in these pathways may result in diseases (digestive diseases, cancer). Central in this course are techniques applied to identify such protein interactions. Interactions between proteins in living cells and in vitro are studied with a variety of techniques in the field of fluorescence microscopy (FLIM, FRET). Protein complexes involved in regulatory or signal transduction pathways are isolated by affinity methods and the proteins in these complexes are identified by mass spectroscopy. In silico docking methods are applied to predict how proteins in a complex might interact.

Aims:

Introduction in advanced methods for studying the biochemistry of living cells with application of advanced (research-grade) apparatuses and techniques.

Activities:

Performing experiments, analyzing results, comparing with publications on the subject and writing a report.

Examination:

Based on performance during the course and the written reports.

Literature:

Supplied during the course.