Course content

The subject is given every second year, next time fall 2011. The course gives a detailed description of the most important carbohydrates containing macromolecules produced in biotechnological important organisms; bacteria, yeast, fungi, algae, animal cells. Complex polysaccharide from cell wall i.e. murein, theicoc acid, lipopolysaccharides, glycoproteins and proteoglycans will be included. Bacterial exocellular polysaccharides will also be covered. Emphasis will be put on biosynthesis and biological function.
Current and potential application of complex carbohydrates in biomedicine and industry will be elucidated. The laboratory exercises will deal with biotechnological production and characterization of industrially important exopolysaccharides.

Learning outcome

To give the students an overview of structure and biological functions of glycoproteins and complex carbohydrates.

Learning methods and activities

In the case of few students the written exam can be replaced with an oral examination.
Lectures and laboratory exercises. The course will be given in English if necessary.

Compulsory assignments

• Exercises

Required previous knowledge

TBT4102 Biochemistry 1.

Course materials

Varki et al. "Essentials of Glycobiology", Cold Spring Harbour Press.

Lecture notes, selected chapters, review articles and preliminary publications.