Biochemistry Fundamentals

This Overview of Biochemistry will examine DNA, RNA, and translation into protein.  Next, we will learn about amino acid structure and peptide bonds.  With that understanding we will look at protein folding and its implications in protein function.  Next, we will discuss carbohydrates; followed by lipids.  We will learn about enzymes and the relationship of the enzyme with substrate and inhibitors.  Then, we will consider all the biomolecules as we discuss metabolism.

Please note:  
1. The learners should already have a good understanding of chemical and biological principles.  This class should build upon what they already know, but I can help fill in some gaps.

2. I offer one time classes on DNA & RNA and The ABCs of Amino Acids that are included in the first 2 sessions of this class.  Some of what is covered in my one time Glycolysis and The Citric Acid Cycle class is also covered in the last week of this class. 

Week 1: DNA, RNA, and the "Central Dogma"
I will present via PowerPoint the structure of DNA & RNA and the Central Dogma.  Learners can draw or model the structure of DNA as I describe it, if they wish.  Learners will be encouraged to ask questions throughout the lecture.  I will show the learners how to extract DNA from strawberries.  Then, we will conclude with an online quiz game with what we learned.

Week 2:  Amino Acids
Amino Acids are the building blocks of proteins and proteins are what drive our biochemistry.  I will present via PowerPoint the names, abbreviations, and chemical structures of amino acids.  I will explain peptide bonds and protein structure.  
During class, learners will be encouraged to draw structures and/or use the amino acid abbreviations to make "words" to remember the "ABC's" of amino acids.  If they feel comfortable, they may share their drawings or "words" with the rest of the class.
I will lead the learners in denaturing protein from egg whites using a variety of household products.  We will conclude with an online quiz game with what we learned.

Week 3: Carbohydrates
I will present the names and structures of some carbohydrates and discuss some of the functions carbohydrates play in our bodies, via PowerPoint slides.  Learners will be encouraged to ask questions throughout the lecture.  I will show the learners how to do the iodine test for amylose in foods.  We will conclude with an online quiz game with what we learned.

Week 4 Lipids
I will present the names and structures of some lipids and discuss some of the functions lipids play in our bodies, via PowerPoint slides.  
Learners will be encouraged to ask questions throughout the lecture.  I will show the learners how to do the brown paper test.  We will conclude with an online quiz game with what we learned.

Week 5  Enzymes
I will present via PowerPoint the classes of enzymes, how enzymes bind, and enzyme kinetics.  (Enzyme kinetics is quite high level, so this should be considered an introduction.)  Learners will be encouraged to ask questions throughout the lecture.  I will show the learners how to do the Catalase experiment.  We will conclude with an online quiz game with what we learned.

Week 6 Metabolism 
I will describe metabolic mechanisms and introduce several mechanisms that occur in our bodies.  (This is also very high level, so it should be considered an introduction.)  Learners will be encouraged to ask questions throughout the lecture.  I will show the learners how to do the yeast test.  We will conclude with an online quiz game with what we learned.