Recommended prerequisite for participation in the module

Content, progress and pedagogy of the module

The course gives an introduction to carbohydrate chemistry including structure, function, stability and dynamics of glycosides, oligo-  and polysaccharides.

Focus on industrially important carbohydrates, organic synthesis for introduction of functional groups and glycosylation, carbohydrates in relation to health and medicine, relevant analyses methods and assays.

• Introduction to Carbohydrate Chemistry
• Structure, Stability, and Dynamics
• Glycosides, Oligosaccharides
• Hydrocolloids and Polysaccharides
• Starch and Cyclodextrins
• Industrial Processes for Production of Sugar, Sweeteners, and Biofuels
• Analytical Methods and Assays
• Organic Synthesis
• Health, Medicine, and Nutrition

Learning objectives

Knowledge

Students who have passed this module must be able to

• Explain and demonstrate a thorough understanding of the structure and properties of mono-, di-, oligo-, and polysaccharides
• Explain strategies for the synthesis and hydrolysis of glycosidic bonds
• Demonstrate understanding and knowledge of production processes and utilization of industrially significant carbohydrates, including sugars, oligosaccharides, hydrocolloids, and other polysaccharides
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding and knowledge of the substrate specificity and catalytic mechanisms of carbohydrate-active enzymes
• Explain the enzymology relevant to the degradation and modification of plant-based biomass, including starch, cellulose, and pectin
• Explain methods for quantitative and functional analysis of carbohydrates
• Explain essential aspects of structure and function in glycobiology

Skills

• Apply and establish methods for the synthesis and modification of carbohydrates for use in industrial processes and applications
• Use knowledge to assess structure in relation to the functional properties of carbohydrates, including anomeric configuration, conformation, solubility, crystallization, and gelation
• Evaluate results of chemical and physical analysis methods in carbohydrate chemistry
• Suggest relevant chemical and enzymatic catalysts for chemical reactions in carbohydrate chemistry
• Evaluate, propose, and establish methods for assays and analysis of carbohydrates

Type of instruction

• Readings
• Lectures
• Theoretical exercises

Extent and expected workload

150 hours

Exam

Exams