Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit focuses on several major classes of biologically and clinically important therapeutic agents. Students will study the traditional use, isolation, structural characterisation, synthesis and clinical evaluation of drugs and also be exposed to newer crystallographic, computational, combinatorial and screening methodology used in drug design and development. The subject will consist of three inter-related sections:

1. drug discovery and development,
2. molecular recognition and
3. combinatorial chemistry and the synthesis of biological polymers. Where appropriate, guest speakers from industry and government agencies will contribute to the subject.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will have developed an understanding of the traditional and modern methods used for drug discovery; of how molecules interact at the molecular level and how this relates to the activity of drugs; how crystallography and computational methods can be used for drug development and of combinatorial chemistry, and how it can be used in drug discovery, with particular reference to biological polymers. Students will have further developed skills in the use of reaction mechanisms and how a knowledge of reaction mechanisms can aid in understanding the mode of action of a drug, and the method by which it can be synthesised, and developed generic practical skills, through laboratory work. They will have gained an appreciation of research work through involvement in small research projects and have enhanced their professional skills in problem solving and in both written and oral forms of scientific communication.

Assessment

One 2-hour examination: 60%
Seminar/Assignments: 10%
Laboratory work and short laboratory reports: 30%
Students must achieve a pass mark in their laboratory work to achieve an overall pass grade.

Chief examiner(s)

Dr David Lupton

Contact hours

Two 1-hour lectures, one 1-hour tutorial and the equivalent of three hours of laboratory activity per week

Prerequisites

CHM2911. Students who have not completed and passed this unit should consult the third year coordinator.