OR11A2A - BIOCHEMISTRY

Educational Objectives
The educational objectives of the Biochemistry course are aimed at providing Orthoptics and Ophthalmic Assistance students with foundational knowledge of the chemical and biochemical principles underlying vital processes. In particular, the course is designed to develop the ability to understand the molecular basis of physiology and pathology, laying the foundation for acquiring the professional and clinical skills required in their future careers.
Knowledge and Understanding
At the end of the course, students will have acquired fundamental knowledge regarding:


Atomic structure and chemical bonds.

Solutions and colligative properties.

Chemical equilibrium.

Properties of acids, bases, and salts; the concept of pH.

Fundamentals of bioenergetics and redox reactions.

Main functional groups of organic compounds.

Structure and function of biological macromolecules: proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids.

General properties of hemoglobin and enzymes.

Concept of metabolism: anabolism and catabolism.

Main metabolic pathways: carbohydrate, lipid, and protein metabolism.

Respiratory chain and oxidative phosphorylation.

Applying Knowledge and Understanding
At the end of the course, students will be able to:


Apply basic chemical and biochemical principles to understand physiological processes and their alterations in pathological conditions.

Interpret relevant chemical, physical, and biochemical parameters in biomedical, clinical, and laboratory contexts.

Relate the molecular structure of organic compounds and biological macromolecules (proteins, carbohydrates, lipids) to their biological functions.

Understand the biochemical mechanisms underlying energy metabolism and metabolic regulation, with particular reference to applications in Ophthalmic practice.

Making Judgments
At the end of the course, students will be able to:


Critically evaluate the chemical and biochemical processes underlying normal and pathological biological functions.

Integrate acquired knowledge to interpret basic experimental or clinical data of biochemical relevance.

Connect theoretical concepts to professional contexts, recognizing the importance of molecular foundations in diagnostic and care processes.

Apply a scientific and rational approach to analyzing problems related to biomedical sciences supporting Orthoptic practice.

Communication Skills
At the end of the course, students will be able to:


Appropriately use the basic scientific language of chemistry and biochemistry.

Clearly and effectively communicate concepts, principles, and biochemical processes, including in interdisciplinary contexts.

Interact with other healthcare professionals using correct and shared terminology.

Learning Skills
At the end of the course, students will be able to:


Apply acquired knowledge to independently explore advanced topics in biochemistry and related biomedical disciplines.

Develop effective study strategies for continuous learning in scientific and professional fields.

Connect fundamental concepts of chemistry and biochemistry to subsequent courses, promoting integrated and long-lasting learning.