Biochemistry in Dentistry (CFUBK_074)
About Study Course
Objective
To provide theoretical and practical knowledge of biochemical processes (digestion and metabolism) occurring in human organism on a molecular level. To facilitate the understanding of regulatory mechanisms of biochemical processes (with emphasis on carbohydrates) both on molecular and on physiological level. To elucidate the role of tissue specific proteins (extracellular matrix and connective tissue) differences in and specific adaptations of biochemical processes in various tissues/organs (cell metabolism). To elucidate biochemical processes related to the health of teeth and mouth.
Prerequisites
Course Medical Biochemistry: CFUBK_005.
Learning outcomes
On completion of the study course students will be able to:
• explain and describe digestion of proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and carbohydrates and related pathologies;
• name factors influencing enzyme’s activity;
• characterise metabolic pathways in human metabolism that connect carbohydrates, lipids and amino acids and allow these groups to transform into each other, name hormones that regulate these transformations;
• name and explain complications related to dysfunction of biochemical pathways studied in the course (e.g. lactoacidosis and ketoacidosis);
• name and explain biochemical processes and specific adaptations of connective tissues;
• name and explain biochemical processes that ensure the health of mouth and teeth.
1. Use of knowledge – ability to explain:
• based on enzyme action mechanism, how enzymes activity is influenced by various factors;
• the regulation of basic biochemical pathways and their role in the health of mouth and teeth;
• the role of proteomics in dentistry.
2. Problem solving skills.
3. Skills to use scientific literature as a source of information.
4. Communication skills gained through organized team work.
On completion of the study course students will be able to:
• assess possible disturbances in digestion and their relation to health of mouth and teeth;
• assess possible disturbances in metabolic processes and their relation to health of mouth and teeth.
Study course planning
| Study programme | Study semester | Program level | Study course category | Lecturers | Schedule |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dentistry, SSNSF | 2 | Master’s | Limited choice | Kalvis Brangulis |
