CHM2941

Chemistry of life

(SCI)

Dr Andrea Robinson

6 points + Three 1-hour lectures and an average of 3 hours laboratory activity per week + First semester + Clayton + Prerequisites: CHM1011 OR CHM1022 OR CHM1031 OR CHM1042 OR BMS1011 + Prohibitions: CHM2942

Synopsis: Covers the basic physico-chemical principles relevant to the application and activity of chemicals in biological systems: The spectroscopy of biological systems and the concept of energy applied to biological sciences will be developed. Examples of classes of molecules and their synthesis and design will be discussed. Biologically important natural products (including terpenes, steroids, alkaloids) will be discussed from a historical perspective as leads for new drug discoveries. Basic coordination chemistry, as it relates to biological systems, will be discussed and then extended to explore the roles of cisplatin, heavy metal toxicity, and antidotes involving metal ion complexes.

Assessment: Examination (3 hours): 70% + Laboratory work: (30%)