SBT 204:Introductory Biochemistry and Genetics

SBT 204: Biochemistry and Genetics – Course Overview

Introduction

This introductory course provides a foundational understanding of biochemistry and genetics, exploring the scientific principles that govern heredity and the molecular basis of life. Students will examine the structure and function of genes and chromosomes, cellular division processes, Mendelian inheritance patterns, and the chemistry of essential biological molecules. The course emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application through laboratory exercises and data analysis.


Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • Describe cellular and chromosomal events that occur during cell division

  • Describe chromosome behavior and changes in chromosome structure and number as the cell progresses through the cell cycle, mitosis, and meiosis

  • Develop an understanding of Mendelian genetics by setting up monohybrid and dihybrid crosses

  • Explain Mendel’s laws

  • Define and perform a test cross

  • Explain Mendel’s principles of inheritance and apply these to problems of inheritance

  • Use and interpret probabilities and statistics in the analysis of genetic data

  • Describe the structure of DNA and its replication

  • Classify and explain the nature of carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, proteins, enzymes, and coenzymes


Course Topics

Genetics Stream

  1. Introduction to Biochemistry and Genetics

  2. Genes and Chromosomes

  3. DNA Replication and Cellular Processes

  4. Mendelian Genetics

  5. Genetics of Sex Determination and Linkage

  6. Molecular Basis of Heredity

Biochemistry Stream
7. Plant Cell, Tissue, and Organ Biology
8. Aqueous and Colloidal Systems
9. Introduction to Structure, Chemistry, and Classification of:

  • Carbohydrates

  • Proteins

  • Lipids

  • Vitamins (Coenzymes)

  • Enzymes


Course Assessment

  • Continuous Assessment Tests (CATs) – 20%
    Two continuous assessment tests are administered during the semester.

  • Practicals – 10%
    Several practical sessions covering:

    • Cell division: mitosis and meiosis

    • Blood grouping, e.g., the ABO system

    • Data analysis for Mendelian traits and quantitative traits

  • End of Semester Examination – 70%
    A final comprehensive examination covering all course topics.


Key References

  1. Burns, G. W. The Science of Genetics

  2. Gardner, E. J. Principles of Genetics

  3. Klug, W. S. & Cummings, M. R. Concepts of Genetics

  4. Yost, H. T. Jr. & William, H. The Science of Genetics