Arthur Glasfeld
Office hours: Chem 410, MTuW 2-3:30 PM
E-mail: glasfeld.@.reed.edu
Phone: 503/517-7679
This course is about structure and function in biochemistry. It celebrates the purposefulness of biological molecules and their evolution to forms that have made them extraordinarily effective at achieving their appointed tasks. Protein, nucleic acids and lipids will receive due attention. The course fixates upon the measurement of structure through biophysical techniques and the measurement of function through a variety of solution-based methodologies. It rejects SI units. Structure is measured in Angstroms and function is measured in calories. A recurring theme will be the linkage of structural features to enthalpic or entropic outcomes. The course will sharpen awareness that biological order is perched on a perilous thermodynamic precipice. Existence is a marvel.
