Aims

To explain fundamental concepts in irreversible thermodynamics with important biological applications. To mediate an understanding of the fundamental properties of biological macromolecules and their complexes.

Content

Ligand bindning to macromolecules, cooperativity, gene regulation. Reaction kinetics, relaxation kinetics, diffusion and diffusion control, enzyme catalysis, catalytic mechanisms, transition state theory, stochastic description of chemical reactions. Electrolytes, Debye-Hückel theory. Equilibria and transport across membranes: membrane potential, ion conduction, chemiosmosis.

Irreversible thermodynamics: dissipation, accuracy, proofreading.

Laboratory work: Enzyme kinetics, accuracy.

Instruction

Lectures, seminars and laboratory work.

Assessment

Written exam at the end of the course. Assignments and laboratory work: 2 points.