Biochemistry

Biochemistry is the science that studies the chemical composition, structure, and transformations of substances in living organisms. It provides the foundation for understanding how cells function and how vital processes occur.

The course begins with an overview of chemical bonds, which ensure the stability and organization of biological molecules, followed by a detailed study of the main classes of biomolecules:

• Carbohydrates, the main sources of energy and storage molecules.

• Lipids, essential components of membranes and energy reserves.

• Amino acids and proteins, fundamental structural and functional elements.

A major part focuses on enzymes, the biological catalysts that control and accelerate biochemical reactions. Topics such as kinetics, inhibition, and regulation help explain how cellular metabolism is finely tuned.

The module also introduces the principles of bioenergetics, explaining how energy is produced, transformed, and utilized, especially through the respiratory chain and oxidative phosphorylation.

The course then examines the major metabolic pathways:

• Carbohydrate metabolism: breakdown and synthesis of sugars (glycolysis, Krebs cycle, gluconeogenesis…).

• Lipid metabolism: oxidation and biosynthesis of fatty acids and sterols.

• Protein metabolism: degradation and synthesis of amino acids and peptides, nitrogen elimination (urea cycle).

Finally, the program covers the structure and biological role of vitamins and hormones, key molecules in metabolic regulation.

Course objective : to give students a clear understanding of the molecular mechanisms of life and their connections to biological, physiological, and pathological processes.