CHM3930 - Medicinal chemistry - 2019

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 interrelated sections: a) drug discovery and development, b) molecular recognition, and c) chemistry and the synthesis of biological polymers. Where appropriate, guest speakers from industry and government agencies will contribute to the subject.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Understand traditional and modern methods used for drug discovery;
2. Understand how molecules interact at the molecular level and how this relates to the activity of drugs;
3. Demonstrate how crystallography and computational methods are used for drug development;
4. Demonstrate a knowledge of reaction mechanisms and how they can aid in understanding the mode of action of a drug;
5. Demonstrate practical skills through the practice of chemical synthesis in a laboratory;
6. Demonstrate the capacity to work in small research groups, to solve problems and communicate science in both written and oral forms.

Examination (2 hours): 40% (Hurdle)

Mid-semester test (40 mins): 20%

Seminar/assignments: 10%

Laboratory work and short laboratory reports: 30% (Hurdle)

To pass this unit a student must achieve a minimum score of 50% in the laboratory practical component and a minimum of 30% for the end-of-semester exam.

Supplementary assessment is not available for the lab practical component.

Two 1-hour workshops, one hour directed independent study and the equivalent of 3 hours of laboratory activity per week

See also Unit timetable information

Chemistry

Medicinal chemistry