Course content

In 'Biopolymeric Materials', emphasis will be placed on the properties and behavior of biological macromolecules at concentrations above critical overlap concentration, such as viscosity profile, order / disorder transitions, gel formation, viscoelastic properties and phase behavior when mixing macromolecules. Examples of the use of biopolymers will be given with special emphasis on biomedicine and biopolymers used in immobilization of cells and enzymes. Demonstration of rheological equipment for characterization of soft materials will be given.

The Bioinformatics part (50%) gives a comprehensive introduction to DNA analysis. Each student receives a 20 kb large "raw" DNA-sequence with unknown identity and origin (bacterial, archaeal, or eukaryotic). The students in groups of 2-4 is expected to analyse the sequence based on questions raised in an available compendium. This bioinformatic part is using a practical approach where the students are guided and have to use a wide portfolio of electronic bioinformatic tools. The students will submit several reports throughout the course work, where each is building on the previous, and all are included in the basis for grading.

Learning outcome

Biopolymeric materials: Basic knowledge of biological biopolymers in concentrated solutions and gels, materials based on them and how such materials can be tailored and changed to defined properties. Bioinformatics: The student learns how to read DNA.

Learning methods and activities

Biopolymeric materials: Lectures and demonstrations. The bioinformatic part uses a problem-based learning approach.

Recommended previous knowledge

Previous knowledge in biochemistry, microbiology, biochemical engineering, and molecular genetics is required; e.g. corresponding to the courses TBT4107, TBT4110, TBT4145 and TBT4135. Bioinformatics: basic knowledge in biochemistry, microbiology, and cell biology; e.g. corresponding to the courses TBT4102 Biochemistry 1, TBT4107 Biochemistry 2, and TBT4110 Microbiology.

Course materials

Information will be given at commencement of the course. Bioinformatics: Information will be given at commencement of the course. This part relies on use of freely available online websites/softwares.

Credit reductions