The course provides an introduction to medical and clinical biochemistry. Medical biochemistry emphasizes the biomedical principles of carbohydrate, protein and lipid chemistry fundamental to clinical medicine. Basic biochemical information is presented and integrated with selected nutritional and health problems by means of lectures and clinical discussions. Specific topics include vitamins, minerals, the chemistry of respiration, pH balance, blood coagulation, and hormonal effects on the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids. Clinical biochemistry correlates concepts of medical biochemistry with clinical problems, such as maintenance of good health, aging, wound healing and growth. Specific topics include hormonal dysfunction, pancreatic/ gastric function, iron/hemoglobin metabolism and mineral/ water balance. (1.5 credits)