Course on Biophysics next semester but there's no textbook

[Mugwump101]

I'm going to take a course on Biophysics next semester but there's no textbook. I heard it's because the professor is really good.

Here's the description:

Introduction to the structure, properties, and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and membranes. In depth study of the physical basis of selected systems including vision, nerve transmission, photosynthesis, enzyme mechanism, and cellular diffusion. Introduction to spectroscopic methods for monitoring reactions and determining structure including light absorption or scattering, fluorescence, NMR and X-ray diffraction. The course emphasizes reading and interpretation of the original literature.

But I want to read ahead before class starts. Any ideas? Thanks :D

Also if there are any good resources online or videos, direct me. Thanks.

 

[x12179x]

The description you listed doesn't seem focused on any particular area of biophysics, so I'm going to assume it's an introduction to biophysics class (introducing applications of physics concepts to biology).

Here's some general lectures on Biophysics to begin with:
http://esmane.physics.lsa.umich.edu...fall/20061014-umwlap001-01-blab/real/f001.htm
http://mitworld.mit.edu/video/537/

MIT lectures (some lectures in the Chemistry/Biology/BioEngineering section looks relevant):
http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/web/courses/courses/index.htm

Introduction to the structure, properties, and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and membranes.

This is Stat Mech/Thermo concepts applied for the Biochemsitry. You can find similar topics covered in Physical Chemistry/Bioengineering courses or Advance Biochemistry courses:
http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/Biological-Engineering/20-011JSpring-2004/CourseHome/index.htm

In depth study of the physical basis of selected systems including vision, nerve transmission, photosynthesis, enzyme mechanism, and cellular diffusion.

I don't have much experience with these topics, but I'm sure some courses in Cognitive science section will have something on vision/nerves:
http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/Brain-and-Cognitive-Sciences/index.htm
and look in the Biochemistry/Chemistry section for the latter 3 topics mentioned:
http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/web/courses/courses/index.htm

Introduction to spectroscopic methods for monitoring reactions and determining structure including light absorption or scattering, fluorescence, NMR and X-ray diffraction.

This is Modern Physics/Physical Chemistry applied to analytical instrumentation. An Analytical instrumentation course probably teaches similar info.
This is the book that's commonly used for that class:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0495012017/?tag=pfamazon01-20
So...I posted a lot of lectures for specific courses devoted to the topics mentioned in your description. Most likely, your Biophysics course will probably just give an overview of each of these topics, so you probably don't need to know all the little details taught in these lectures I posted.

 

[charng]

I would recommend reaching out to the professor teaching the course to inquire about any recommended readings or resources that may be available prior to the start of the semester. It is also possible that the professor may have a list of suggested textbooks or supplementary materials that can be used for self-study. Additionally, there are many reputable online resources and videos available for studying biophysics, such as Khan Academy, Coursera, and YouTube channels from universities and scientific organizations. It may also be helpful to connect with other students who have taken the course before to get their insights and recommendations for preparation. Ultimately, the key to success in any course is to stay organized, stay curious, and actively engage with the material. Best of luck in your studies!