Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - MBB 222 D100

Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (3)

Class Number: 1432

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 7, 2026: Mon, Wed, Fri, 11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Oct 7, 2026
    Wed, 6:30–7:50 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 7, 2026
    Wed, 6:30–7:50 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Nov 5, 2026
    Thu, 6:30–7:50 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Nov 5, 2026
    Thu, 6:30–7:50 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    or Corequisite CHEM 281.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The structure, function and synthesis of proteins, RNA and DNA and their interrelated biological functions within the cell. An introduction to molecular biology techniques and methods of protein purification and analysis.

COURSE DETAILS:

TOPICS:

  • Introductory Organic Chemistry
  • Weak chemical interactions
  • Thermodynamics and catalysis
  • Amino acids, polypeptides
  • Protein structure, folding
  • Enzyme catalysis, protein function
  • DNA structure
  • DNA replication
  • DNA repair and mutagenesis
  • Mobile genetic elements
  • Chromosome structure, chromatin
  • Prokaryotic transcription
  • Eukaryotic transcription
  • RNA processing
  • Protein synthesis
  • Recombinant DNA and protein techniques

Grading

  • Two 60-min Midterm Exams (held in evenings, 22.5% each) 45%
  • Two** 60-minute Cumulative Final Exams (22.5% each) 45%
  • Homework & In-class Quizzes 10%

NOTES:

The two cumulative Final Exams are held on the same day during the scheduled Final Exam timeslot, with an intervening 20-minute break.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Miesfeld, Roger L. and Megan M. McEvoy, Biochemistry, 2nd Edition. 2021.  W.W. Norton & Company.
ISBN: 9780393533507

Department Undergraduate Notes:


  • For help with writing, learning and study strategies please contact the Student Learning Commons at
    http://learningcommons.sfu.ca/
  • Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability, must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (778-782-3112 or e-mail:  caladmin@sfu.ca)

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.