Biochemistry of Obesity

Catalog description

The incidence of obesity and associated comorbidities has grown to epidemic proportions. In this course, students will explore the biochemical basis for body weight and energy homeostasis, and the mechanisms of dysregulation that can lead to obesity. Metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids will be reviewed, and their complex hormonal regulation will be introduced. Students will examine the biochemical bases of several fad diets or nutritional regimens, and the intersection between socioeconomic status and nutrition that can lead to obesity. The format of the course relies largely on the learning strategy employed by the MU School of Medicine, in which the students are given the responsibility for researching relevant topics (learning objectives) and teaching them to the rest of the class. Graded on A-F basis only. Credit Hour s : 2 Prerequisites: BIOCHM 4270