551-1103-00L Microbial Biochemistry
Semester | Autumn Semester 2018 |
Lecturers | J. Vorholt-Zambelli, J. Piel |
Periodicity | yearly recurring course |
Language of instruction | English |
Abstract | The lecture course aims at providing an advanced understanding of the physiology and metabolism of microorganisms. Emphasis is on processes that are specific to bacteria and archaea and that contribute to the widespread occurrence of prokaryotes. Applied aspects of microbial biochemistry will be pointed out as well as research fields of current scientific interest. |
Objective | The lecture course aims at providing an advanced understanding of the physiology and metabolism of microorganisms. |
Content | Important biochemical processes specific to bacteria and archaea will be presented that contribute to the widespread occurrence of prokaryotes. Applied aspects of microbial biochemistry will be pointed out as well as research fields of current scientific interest. Emphasis is on concepts of energy generation and assimilation. List of topics: Eating sugars and letting them in Challenging: Aromatics, xenobiotics, and oil Complex: (Ligno-)Cellulose and in demand for bioenergy Living on a diet and the anaplerotic provocation Of climate relevance: The microbial C1 cycle What are AMO and Anammox? 20 amino acids: the making of Extending the genetic code The 21st and 22nd amino acid Some exotic biochemistry: nucleotides, cofactors Ancient biochemistry? Iron-sulfur clusters, polymers Secondary metabolites: playground of evolution |
Lecture notes | A script will be provided during the course. |