Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit provides students with introduction to the chemistry of biomolecules. Topics include:

• Amines
• Coordination compounds
• Aldehydes and Ketones
• Carboxylic Acids and Functional Derivatives
• Organic Polymer Chemistry
• Carbohydrates
• Amino Acids and Proteins
• Nucleic Acids
• Lipids
• Drug Stability & Metabolism
• Perspectives in Medicinal Chemistry

1. To provide the specialist background in organic chemistry and chemistry of biomolecules necessary to understand Drug Action units in year 2;
2. To provide essential fundamental background for Drug Delivery and Integrated therapeutics units in years 2-4.

Objectives

At the end of this unit students will be able to:

1. Apply the key concepts in chemical structure and bonding, including functional groups and biomolecules, to the rationalisation of reactions of organic molecules;
2. Explain the role of molecular shapes and electronic distributions as the basis for drug-receptor interactions;
3. Be proficient in basic laboratory techniques.

Assessment

Written examination (3 hours): 80%; practical test: 10%; practical classes: 5%; tutorial classes: 5%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Bim Graham

Contact hours

54 contact hours per semester (lectures 30 x 1 hour; practicals 6 x 3 hour; tutorials 6 x 1 hour)

Additional information on this unit is available from the faculty at:

http://www.monash.edu.au/muso/support/