CHM3930 · Medicinal chemistry

Overview

This unit focuses on several major classes of biologically and clinically important therapeutic agents. You 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 unit 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.

Areas of study: Chemistry Medicinal chemistry

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

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.

Workload

• Three 1-hour workshops • The equivalent of 3 hours of laboratory activities and • One hour directed independent study per week

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.