Updated August 10, 2011

Course Director:
Arthur L. Haas, Ph.D.
ahaas@lshsc.edu

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental chemical principles associated with living organisms and establishes a foundation for subsequent courses in multiple disciplines. The molecular logic underlying the organization and regulation of living systems is emphasized. Topics covered include fundamental considerations of thermodynamics, the basics of protein structure-function, enzyme specificity and catalysis, oxidative phosphorylation, and intermediary metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, and nucleotides. The course consists of lectures, problems sets, and class discussions.

The course is comprised of three block exams of 100 points each. In addition, there will be 12 pop quizzes of 10 points each given during the course, the two lowest scores of which will be dropped. Thus, the pop quizzes collectively will represent 25% of the final score. Grades will be determined by a cummulative point scheme based on 400 total points for the semester.

There is no course text. Reading assignments will be provided prior to class.  

The first class will be held at 9:00 AM on Wednesday August 10, 2011 in Seminar Room 5 in the Medical Education Building (1901 Perdido Street), except as noted.