Structure and function of membrane transporters and channels. Hormones, neurotransmitters, local mediators: biosynthesis and mechanism of action. Membrane and nuclear receptors Signal transduction. Protein homeostasis. Protein co-and post-translational modifications.
Berg Jeremy M.; Tymoczko John L.; Stryer Lubert Biochimica, Zanichelli
Lehninger Nelson Cox Biochimica Zanichelli
Learning Objectives
The aim is that of transmitting updated information on the molecular mechanisms directing fundamental biological processes such as cell communication, membrane transport and protein homeostasis together with their regulation
Prerequisites
Principles of Biochemistry. Main metabolic pathways
Teaching Methods
Lessons in the classroom
Type of Assessment
Oral examination
Course program
Principles of enzyme regulation and control of metabolism. Cell communication. Hormones, neurotransmitters, local mediators and their classification.
Mechanism of membrane transport. Passive mediated transport and active transport. Ion channels and their regulation.
Examples of transporters.
Acetylcholine and its receptors, GABA, glycine. Catecholamines. Adrenergic receptors as example of GPCR, and their molecular action mechanism. Cholesterol and the regulation of its metabolism. Lipoproteins. Cholesterol as precursor of steroid hormones. Cortisol, aldosterone, estrogens, vitamin D: biological effects, synthesis, specific receptors. Thyroid hormones: biosynthesis, regulation and biological effects.
Arachidonate derivatives. Growth factors. Protein hormones and their biosynthesis. Secretory proteins and intracellular trafficking. Folding in vivo and molecular chaperones. Protein co-and post-translational modifications: glycosylation and lipidation. Protein degradation and role of ubiquitin-proteasome. Membrane signal transduction. Main signaling pathways. Insulin: biosynthesis, regulation of secretion. Insulin receptor, signaling and evoked metabolic effects