Biophysics
Keywords |
Classification |
Keyword |
OFICIAL |
Basic Sciences |
Instance: 2018/2019 - 2S
Cycles of Study/Courses
Acronym |
No. of Students |
Study Plan |
Curricular Years |
Credits UCN |
Credits ECTS |
Contact hours |
Total Time |
MIB |
81 |
Syllabus |
1 |
- |
6 |
56 |
162 |
Teaching language
Suitable for English-speaking students
Objectives
To enable the students: - To understand and use basic principles of classical and modern physics that are relevant to biochemistry. - To be familiar with examples taken from the life sciences that illustrate how these basic principles are applied. - To recognize the clarity and simplicity of many biophysical descriptions of a multitude of mechanisms that are key to our understanding of physical chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and physiology. - To acquire the tools and to develop the competences needed to solve simple problems that are frequently multidisciplinary in nature.
Learning outcomes and competences
Understand the simplicity of biophysical descriptions of the functioning of biological systems.
Understand the physical principles behind several imaging/diagnostic techniques used in biomedicine.
Working method
Presencial
Program
A - Molecular Biophysics
1 - Proteins, structure and function
2 - Enzymes
3 - Membrane proteins. Ion channels, ion pumps. Nerve conduction.
4- Metalloenzymes. Protein structure and coordination of the metal centers. Transport of O2. Transport of electrons.
5- Proteins involved in energy conversion. Oxidative phosphorilarion. ATPsynthase.
B - Diagnostics, therapy, image acquisition
6- Radioactivity and radiations. Biological effects and mechanisms. Biological applications (structural biology, diagnostics, therapy, image acquisition).
7- Magnetism. Concept of field. Magnetic force and energy. Mass spectrometry. Magnetic Resonance imaging.
8 - Ultrasounds. Doppler effect. Image acquisition. Evaluation of the blood flow.
C - Biomechanics
9- Elastic Propertities of materials (bone)
10 - Biomechanics of the muscle
Mandatory literature
Nelson David L.;
Lehninger principles of biochemistry. ISBN: 1-57259-931-6
Complementary Bibliography
Kane Joseph W.;
Physics. ISBN: 0-471-63845-5
Teaching methods and learning activities
Lectures and problem solving discussions.
Evaluation Type
Evaluation with final exam
Assessment Components
Designation |
Weight (%) |
Exame |
100,00 |
Total: |
100,00 |
Amount of time allocated to each course unit
Designation |
Time (hours) |
Estudo autónomo |
106,00 |
Frequência das aulas |
56,00 |
Total: |
162,00 |
Eligibility for exams
As defined by the PC
Calculation formula of final grade
Calculation formula of final grade Students choose between final exam only and an alternative (and equivalent) evaluation scheme involving partial tests.