Biology

Recommended Prerequisites

Introductory course that requires only the knowledge acquired during the High-School  level. The course is lectured in Portuguese, so that a good domain of this language is required.

Teaching Methods

The teaching methods of both theoretical and theoretical-practical classes aim the global learning of the discipline.

The lectures are based on presentations with simple texts and diagrams, graphs, etc.., with the support of media. There is opportunity to discuss the most difficult concepts and more complex points.

In practical classes, students perform experimental activities that focus and complement the subjects of lectures.

Learning Outcomes

This course aims to provide essential knowledge about biology at the molecular and cellular level. Students are introduced to the molecular composition of a cell and know the function of different macromolecules; know the different organelles and able to relate their structure to the function performed; understand the molecular basis of heredity, from DNA to the individual, evaluate the importance of DNA technology and how to apply it.

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1. The chemistry of life. Structure and function of macromolecules

Hierarchical organization of life. Functional constituents of the cell: carbon Carbohydrates, Lipids, Proteins, Nucleic acids - polymers holders of information.

2. Cell: The basic unit of life.

Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Cellular organization: nucleus and ribosomes, endomembranar system (endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus and lysosomes), mitochondria and chloroplasts, cytoskeleton

The cell surface and intracellular junctions: interactions between

Cells.

Cellular Respiration, Fermentation, and Photosynthesis.

Cell communication: reception and signal transduction

Main methods to study cells.

 3. Information and heredity

Chromosomes: DNA: the genetic material.

Replication and DNA repair. Flow of genetic information from DNA to protein. regulation of gene expression and cell differentiation.

Head Lecturer(s)

Armando Jorge Amaral Matias Cristóvão

Assessment Methods

Assessment
Resolution Problems: 10.0%
Other: 20.0%
Exam: 70.0%

Bibliography

LIFE - THE SCIENCE OF BIOLOGY autores PURVES, SADAVE, ORIANS, HELLER L

Complementar:

Biology - Autor: CAMPBELL

e

Biology understanding life - Autor: Alters