BL3301 Protein Structure and Function
(BL3301 online module handbook version 56)
image: Image from: Govaerts et al. PNAS 101, 8342 (2004)†
This module covers advanced aspects of protein science. The module introduces the major techniques for protein structure determination that are at the heart of biochemistry, molecular biology and drug discovery. The physical principles behind and strategies for elucidating protein structures by X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy and cryo-electron microscopy are discussed. Membrane proteins are considered as an example of the impact of structural information on understanding biological function. The second part builds an understanding of thermodynamic and kinetic principles of protein interactions. Protein engineering by directed evolution will be introduced. This section is complemented by advanced aspects of enzyme kinetics and enzyme inhibition. The third part of the module considers protein folding and misfolding. It will be examined how proteins achieve functional three-dimensional structures. Protein misfolding diseases are used as examples to highlight the significance of protein folding. Prions and the molecular basis of spongiform encephalopathies are discussed in detail.
*Credits: 20*
Semester: 1†
Module OrganiserPre-requisite Modules:Before taking this module you must pass BL2306 and ( pass BL2302 or pass BL2309 )*
Anti-requisite Modules:*
Post-requisite Modules:*
Additional Module Information:
Biology Teaching Office:
Level 2, Biomolecular Sciences Building, University of St Andrews, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 3602 or 3566
BL3301: Assessment
3-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%*
The following related information applies to all Biology modules:
Who to ask †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
Before contacting staff, students should check the content of the Biology Undergraduate Handbook, the module handbook and specific task instructions.
Biology Teaching Office:
We are happy to hear from you about teaching matters. The School of Biology Teaching Office is open Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00. School of Biology staff will respond to your emails during these hours. Our team will provide a response to you within three working days.
Biology Teaching Office (Level 2), University of St Andrews, Biomolecular Sciences Building, North Haugh, St Andrews, Fife KY16 9ST
Email: bioteach@st-andrews.ac.uk
Tel: 01334 46 3602 or 3566
BL3301: Contributing Staff †
BL3301: Learning Outcomes †
Students completing module BL3301 successfully should be able to:
- Describe protein structure & folding using a range of examples
- Relate protein structure to protein function
- Outline the methods used to characterise protein-ligand interactions
- Demonstrate the use of enzyme kinetics to characterise an enzyme
- Design experiments to explore enzyme activity
- Describe the methods used to explore protein structure
- Use in silico tools to characterise proteins, including biomolecular databases and molecular viewers
- Outline the methods used to characterise protein-ligand interactions
BL3301: Acquired Skills †
Practical Skills
- Buffers
- Enzyme assay
- Kinetic data analysis
- Molecular viewer software
- Pipetting
- Protein quantitation
- SDS PAGE
Transferable Skills
- "Short" practical write-up (e.g. completed worksheet)
- Short essay (1000-2000 words)
- Finding literature
- Referencing
- Searching databases
- Lab safety awareness
- Calculations/equations
- Concentrations
- Dilutions
- Volumes
- Working in pairs/small groups
Policies †
(Information in this section applies to all Biology Modules)
- The procedures and regulations followed by the School of Biology are outlined in the University Handbook and in the School of Biology UG handbook  JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)Â
- All coursework associated with the module must be completed and submitted by its due date.
- Specific School regulations relating to absence reporting, penalties and rules for late submission of work, extensions for coursework, return of coursework, S-coding, Good Academic Practice and Academic Alert are stated in the School of Biology UG hand book JH booklet info (st-andrews.ac.uk)  and students are required to carefully read these regulations.
- Students are also referred to the University Handbook, available at: http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/studenthandbook/
