Introduction to Biophysics (Essentials)
Module PH8106
Basic Information
PH8106 is a semester module in German or English language at Master’s level which is offered in winter semester.
This Module is included in the following catalogues within the study programs in physics.
- Service Modules for Students of other Disciplines
If not stated otherwise for export to a non-physics program the student workload is given in the following table.
| Total workload | Contact hours | Credits (ECTS) |
|---|---|---|
| 90 h | 30 h | 3 CP |
Responsible coordinator of the module PH8106 is Andreas Bausch.
Content, Learning Outcome and Preconditions
Content
This module provides an introduction to the essential aspects of molecular biophysics. After a technical and historical motivation the molecular components of biology are introduced and their physical properties discussed. It will be described how biology exploits the self-assembly processes to build complex nanomachines. Furthermore, physical methods for the study of biomolecules are introduced and the function of proteins is demonstrated on the bases of examples. The physical basis of pattern formation, as it appears for example in the morphogenesis, are introduced.
Learning Outcome
After successful completion of this module, the students are able to
- explain the structure, the structure and the various functions of proteins and to calculate the kinetics
- to understand and to explain the structure and the various functions of DNA and RNA
- to study the kinetic control of enzymes on the basis of examples
- to understand the process of diffusion and the physical and biological implications and to describe it quantitatively
- to understand the basic mechanisms of self-organization and to describe it physically.
Preconditions
No prerequisites in addition to the admission criteria for Master's studies.
Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature
Courses and Schedule
| Type | SWS | Title | Lecturer(s) | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VO | 2 | Introduction to Biophysics | Bausch, A. |
Wed, 14:00–15:30, PH 3024 |
Learning and Teaching Methods
- lecture
- beamer presentation
- exercises in individual and group work
- discussion
Media
Exercise sheets
Literature
Textbooks for biophysics, e.g.:
- E. Sackmann: Biophysik
- Phil Nelson: Biological Physics: Energy, Information, Life
- Rob Phillips: Physical Biology of the Cell
- Meyer B. Jackson: Molecular and Cellular Biophysics
- Alberts et al.: Molecular Biology of the Cell