Course Identification

Protein Structure and Function I

The course is based on critical reading of research papers and student/instructor discussion of advanced topics in protein structure/function. The diversity of interests, backgrounds , and opinions among the students contributes to rich debate and a deep and thorough evaluation of each article under discussion. Topics will include:

1. Protein thermodynamics.
2. Bioinformatics and protein fold prediction methods.
3. Experimental and theoretical studies of protein folding.
4. Protein design and in vitro evolution.
5. Dynamics, conformational changes, and cooperativity in protein function.

Upon successful completion of this course students should be able to:

Analyze and critique contemporary research articles in protein science in the following manner: Explain the experimental rationale, suggest alternative approaches, uncover caveats, derive equations, argue for other interpretations of the data, or defend and justify the conclusions.

One paper on the topic of protein science will be assigned per week, to be prepared for discussion by all the students. The selection of papers will be given at the beginning of the semester.