Skip to main contentSkip to Xpert Chatbot

HarvardX: Principles of Biochemistry

4.6 stars
44 ratings

This introduction to biochemistry explores the molecules of life, starting at simple building blocks and culminating in complex metabolism.

15 weeks
4–6 hours per week
Self-paced
Progress at your own speed
Free
Optional upgrade available

There is one session available:

390,340 already enrolled! After a course session ends, it will be archivedOpens in a new tab.
Starts Nov 22

About this course

Skip About this course

Principles of Biochemistry integrates an introduction to the structure of macromolecules and a biochemical approach to cellular function. Topics addressing protein function will include enzyme kinetics, the characterization of major metabolic pathways and their interconnection into tightly regulated networks, and the manipulation of enzymes and pathways with mutations or drugs. An exploration of simple cells (red blood cells) to more complex tissues (muscle and liver) will be used as a framework to discuss the progression in metabolic complexity. Learners will also develop problem solving and analytical skills that are more generally applicable to the life sciences.

At a glance

  • Institution: HarvardX
  • Subject: Medicine
  • Level: Intermediate
  • Prerequisites:

    College-level Introductory Biology
    College-level Introductory General Chemistry, including basic Organic Chemistry

  • Language: English
  • Video Transcript: English
  • Associated skills:Livers, Enzyme Kinetics, Cell Biology, Chemical Kinetics, Analytical Skills, Hepatology, Macromolecule, Interconnection, Problem Solving, Metabolism, Biochemistry, Metabolic Pathways, Protein Function

What you'll learn

Skip What you'll learn
  • The structure and function of the chemical building blocks of life
  • How to navigate protein structures using PyMOL
  • The central role of enzymes in catalyzing the reactions of life
  • The primary metabolic pathways that power cells
  • The intricate mechanisms that regulate cellular metabolism
  • The integration of biochemical processes in the context of cells, tissues, and whole organisms

More about this course

Skip More about this course

HarvardX Honor Code

HarvardX requires individuals who enroll in its courses on edX to abide by the terms of the edX honor code. HarvardX will take appropriate corrective action in response to violations of the edX honor code, which may include dismissal from the HarvardX course; revocation of any certificates received for the HarvardX course; or other remedies as circumstances warrant. No refunds will be issued in the case of corrective action for such violations. Enrollees who are taking HarvardX courses as part of another program will also be governed by the academic policies of those programs.

HarvardX Nondiscrimination/Anti-Harassment Statement
Harvard University and HarvardX are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy educational and work environment in which no member of the community is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination or harassment in our program. All members of the HarvardX community are expected to abide by Harvard policies on nondiscrimination, including sexual harassment, and the edX Terms of Service. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact harvardx@harvard.edu and/or report your experience through the edX contact form.

HarvardX Research Statement
HarvardX pursues the science of learning. By registering as an online learner in an HX course, you will also participate in research about learning. Read our research statement to learn more.

Interested in this course for your business or team?

Train your employees in the most in-demand topics, with edX For Business.