This interdisciplinary course introduces students to fundamental concepts of biochemistry, cell structure and function with an emphasis on aspects relevant to clinical medicine. The major metabolic pathways and their regulation by hormonal, allosteric, and genetic mechanisms are discussed in relation to cell structure, cell types and to a variety of diseases, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and enzyme defects. Nutrition, as related to metabolism and medicine is discussed. Basic aspects of DNA chemistry, and the structure, function, and regulation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genes are taught using clinically relevant examples. Students actively participate by solving several clinical examples using skill and knowledge learned in the course, by leading small group discussions on topics of their choosing and by writing a comprehensive research paper. Course activities include lectures, laboratories, independent problem-solving, faculty-facilitated small groups, and use of computer skills, such as creation of web-pages and Power-Point presentations. Prerequisites: enrollment in the M.D. degree program.
