Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit builds on the Level 2 units BIOC2001 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Cell and BIOC2002 Biochemical Regulation of Cell Function. The topics of protein targeting, signal transduction and the life cycle of cells—growth, differentiation, cancer and cell death—are covered. Mechanisms of metabolic regulation, the role of enzymes and energy generation (which explains how cells cope with environmental changes and stress) complete the theory part of the unit. The laboratory practical component encompasses tissue culture and qualitative and quantitative analysis of changes in gene expression on cell stimulation and/or differentiation. The opportunity to engage in a research project in a research laboratory may be offered (depending on staff availability) to students who are enrolled in a Biochemistry and Molecular Biology major and also enrolled in

this unit and BIOC3003 Omics—Global Approaches to Cell Function. Students who have achieved an average grade of 65 per cent or more in their second-year Biochemistry and Molecular Biology unit(s) are eligible to apply. The research project runs for about 10 weeks and replaces the teaching laboratory components of this unit BIOC3003 Omics—Global Approaches to Cell Function. Students undertaking a research project still do the laboratory quiz and the mark for their written report on the project replaces the laboratory report written by students taking the teaching laboratory component.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 core unit in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Molecular Life Sciences; Biochemistry of Nutrition major sequences
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of cell function at the biochemical level, including the biochemical basis of cellular malfunctions that lead to stressed or diseased states, e.g. cancer, oxidative stress; (2) demonstrate research skills in cell culture, modern methods of quantitative analysis of gene expression and data collection, analysis and written reporting of results; and (3) use skills in literature research, comprehension and analysis of scientific publications and oral and visual presentation of scientific material.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) final Exam; (2) laboratories; and (3) oral Journal Club Presentation. Further information is available in the unit outline.

To pass this unit, a student must: (a) achieve an overall mark of 50 per cent or higher for the unit; and (b) achieve the requisite requirements(s) or a mark of 50 per cent or greater, whichever is higher and specified in the unit outline, for the laboratories component.

Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Professor Alice Vrielink
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
two Unit(s) BIOC2001 Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of the Cell
and Unit(s) BIOC2002 Biochemical Regulation of Cell Function
Contact hours
lectures: 26 x 1 hour
labs: 5 x 6 hours
journal clubs: 7 x 1 hour
Note
BIOC3005 has a compulsory face to face laboratory component, which will need to be completed (at a later date) before a final grade can be awarded for the unit, if the unit is completed in an online mode.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.