3.0

Average Course Rating

All biological processes require the interactions of macromolecules with each other or with ligands that activate or inhibit their activities in a controlled manner. This is a literature and skills-based course that will discuss theoretical principles, logic, approaches and practical considerations used to study these binding processes from a quantitative perspective. Topics will include thermodynamics, single and multiple binding equilibria, linkage relationships, cooperativity, allostery, and macromolecular assembly. Some biophysical methods used in the study of binding reactions will be discussed. Simulation and analysis of binding scenarios will be used to analyze illustrate binding schemes, and examples from the scientific literature will be reviewed and discussed. Basic working knowledge of Python is helpful. The writing component will be in one of the common formats employed in the professional biophysics field. Recommended Course Background: AS.250.372 Biophysical Chemistry