An understanding of cellular metabolism and how metabolism is controlled is a pre-requisite to the study of animal and equine science. This module will provide a base for the nutritional and metabolism aspects of the equine and animal sciences schemes offered by IRS.

This module aims to introduce and explain the key metabolic pathways associated with the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins in mammalian tissues. Mechanism of energy generation and expenditure will be investigated, as will biosynthetic pathways. Control of metabolism at a cellular level will be explored as will the hormonal integration of metabolism in the body. These key areas will be brought together in an attempt to gain holistic vision of the function and control of metabolism in hepatic, adipose, muscle and mammary tissue.

Key metabolic pathways and control mechanisms in animal and human metabolism will be studied. In particular, pathways and key enzymes in glycolysis and energy generation within mammalian systems, glucogenesis and glycogen metabolism together with lipid and protein catabolism and anabolism will be studied. Control of metabolism at a cellular level will be explored as will the hormonal integration of metabolism in the body. Whole body metabolism will be stressed through a detailed examination of the importance of metabolic status and selective study of key metabolic organs. Specifically the function and control of metabolism in hepatic, adipose, muscle and mammary tissue will be considered within a framework of understanding metabolic demand and nutrient homeostasis.

Formal lectures will be combined with coursework essays and laboratory practicals to help foster a more complete understanding of basic biochemical techniques and how metabolic parameters integrate with metabolism in productive farm animals.