Structural Basis of Biological Function (C7114)
Structural Basis of Biological Function
Module C7114
Module details for 2025/26.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 5
Module Outline
The aim of the module is to provide a view of how the structures of protein molecules have evolved to deliver the central functions of life, in a way that will be accessible and beneficial to students from the full spectrum of biological sciences that the School teaches. The module consists of lectures supported by a workshop, a seminar and a lab practical and aims to introduce students to the diverse nature of proteins, the principles of protein architecture and the evolution of protein families in addition to a description of molecular motors, membrane proteins, post-translational modifications, protein folding and protein interactions with DNA. Employability skills will be developed during this module, including being able to assess and interpret data using appropriate statistical methods and graphical tools through the coursework and team working through the seminar.
Module learning outcomes
Explain, in detail, the principles of protein architecture and the evolution of protein families
Describe the role of protein structure in controlling protein function
Describe the mechanism of protein folding, the role of post-translational modifications and the structure of molecular chaperones and motors.
Utilise knowledge of the acquisition of relevant quantitative laboratory results to assess and interpret data using appropriate statistical methods and graphical tools.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Based Exam | Semester 1 Assessment | 70.00% |
| Coursework | 30.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Problem Set | T1 Week 8 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Laboratory | 3 hours | 00010000000 |
| Autumn Semester | Post Lab | 1 hour | 00000000010 |
| Autumn Semester | Pre Lab | 1 hour | 00100000000 |
| Autumn Semester | Workshop | 2 hours | 00100000000 |
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22222222222 |
| Autumn Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 00000001000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Erika Mancini
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/355699
Dr Antony Oliver
Assess convenor
/profiles/265618
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