Biochemistry and cell biology
Course description
The course teaches the basics of the cell, its processes and metabolism, as well as provides an introduction to the study of animal behaviour, animal husbandry and handling of farm animals.
Entry Requirements
or
Biology level 2, Physics level 2, Chemistry level 2, Mathematics Further level 2
Course facts
VM0146, Biochemistry and cell biology, 14.5 Hp
Print syllabus
Syllabus
Finalized by: PN-VH, 2025-11-11
Valid from : Autumn semester 2026 (2026-08-31)
Level
First cycle (G1N)
Main field of study
Veterinary Medicine
Grading Scale
The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.
Course language
Swedish
Entry Requirements
or
Biology level 2, Physics level 2, Chemistry level 2, Mathematics Further level 2
Objectives
The course teaches the basics of the cell, its processes and metabolism, as well as provides an introduction to the study of animal behaviour, animal husbandry and handling of farm animals.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to
- describe the molecules and cells that comprise the body's various tissues;
- describe the metabolism of cells and the whole body and discuss this in relation to different physiological states;
- on a basic level show knowledge on animal husbandry and handling of horses and livestock;
- describe how animal husbandry and handling affect the natural behaviour of animals, with a focus on the knowledge in ethology needed by the professional veterinarian.
Content
Subject-related content
The course comprises the structure of the eukaryote cell, molecular mechanisms, functional characteristics and the cells’ interaction with their surroundings, such as cellular transport mechanisms, signal transduction, how normal cell growth and differentiation are regulated and the basis for malignant transformation. Furthermore, the structure and function of biological macromolecules (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids) and enzymology are studied.
In addition, basic genetic mechanisms (genome structure, replication, transcription), RNA processing, translation, regulation of gene expression, as well as metabolism of the cell and the whole body, and metabolic regulation.
Professional development includes practical sessions connected to animal husbandry, and ethology comprises descriptions of how animal husbandry affects the natural behaviour of animals, thus providing students with the chance to understand how this affects animals. The students are introduced to methods used to assess animal behaviour and they will reflect upon cases taken from clinical and practical conditions.
Teaching formats
To further student learning and promote discussion, a variety of methods are used: Theoretical components based on lectures, group discussions and independent study. Practical activities include laboratory sessions and other exercises. There are also teaching activities with live animals.
The course focuses on the following generic competencies:
Information literacy, critical thinking, problem solving, scientific methods, digital competence, use of technology, oral communication, written communication, collaboration, time management.
The following components are compulsory:
Certain exercises and group discussions.
Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course
Passed written exams and approved participation in compulsory components.
Responsible Department/Equivalent
Department of Animal Biosciences
Supplementary information
Included in program
- Veterinärprogrammet
The Course Replaces
Parts of VM0052
Other Information
Teaching in English may occur.