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HarvardX: Principles of Biochemistry

4.5 stars
27 ratings

This introduction to biochemistry explores the molecules of life, starting at simple building blocks and culminating in complex metabolism.

15 weeks
4–6 hours per week
Self-paced
Progress at your own speed
Free
Optional upgrade available

There is one session available:

380,138 already enrolled! After a course session ends, it will be archivedOpens in a new tab.
Starts Mar 19
Ends Mar 20

About this course

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Principles of Biochemistry integrates an introduction to the structure of macromolecules and a biochemical approach to cellular function. Topics addressing protein function will include enzyme kinetics, the characterization of major metabolic pathways and their interconnection into tightly regulated networks, and the manipulation of enzymes and pathways with mutations or drugs. An exploration of simple cells (red blood cells) to more complex tissues (muscle and liver) will be used as a framework to discuss the progression in metabolic complexity. Learners will also develop problem solving and analytical skills that are more generally applicable to the life sciences.

At a glance

  • Institution: HarvardX
  • Subject: Medicine
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Prerequisites:

    College-level Introductory Biology
    College-level Introductory General Chemistry, including basic Organic Chemistry

  • Language: English
  • Video Transcript: English
  • Associated skills:Enzyme Kinetics, Interconnection, Protein Function, Chemical Kinetics, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Livers, Macromolecule, Hepatology, Analytical Skills, Problem Solving, Metabolic Pathways, Metabolism

What you'll learn

Skip What you'll learn
  • The structure and function of the chemical building blocks of life
  • How to navigate protein structures using PyMOL
  • The central role of enzymes in catalyzing the reactions of life
  • The primary metabolic pathways that power cells
  • The intricate mechanisms that regulate cellular metabolism
  • The integration of biochemical processes in the context of cells, tissues, and whole organisms

More about this course

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