Course overview
An introduction to the principles of medicinal chemistry including natural product isolation, lead generation, and lead optimisation will be presented. The principles of parallel and combinatorial synthesis will be described in this context. An overview of methods for protein structure determination will be provided, forming the basis of discussion of quantitative structure-activity relationships. The chemistry of a number of key biological processes (e.g. enzyme chemistry, action of antibiotics on membranes etc.) will also be presented, including an introduction to the arena of biomimetic organic chemistry. This section will emphasise how the principles of nature can be applied to the rational design of complex molecules. Bioinorganic chemistry will be presented, with a focus on electron transfer reactions in biological systems. Marcus theory of electron transfer will be introduced. Examples of electron transfer proteins will be given, including those containing haem moieties, copper centres, and iron sulfur clusters, and the importance of these proteins will be discussed, including their roles in the mitochondrial respiratory electron transfer chain.
Course learning outcomes
- apply knowledge of synthetic bioorganic chemistry and the mechanisms for biological activity and key biological reactions to design bioactive compounds.
- describe and explain the theory and role of electron transfer in biological systems.
- Explain the role of medicinal and biological chemistry in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Demonstrate proficiency in undertaking individual and/or team-based laboratory investigations using appropriate apparatus and safe laboratory practices, including the collection, analysis, interpretation and communication of results of an experiment.
- Design and plan an investigation by selecting and applying appropriate practical and/or theoretical techniques or tools.
Availability
Class details
Adelaide City Campus East
Class number 53659
Section PR01
Size 7
Available 7
Class number 53658
Section PR02
Size 7
Available 7
Class number 53657
Section PR03
Size 7
Available 7
Class number 53656
Section PR04
Size 7
Available 7
Class number 53660
Section WS01
Size 25
Available 25
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