James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2011

CH5302 - Medicinal and Biological Chemistry (Advanced)

[Offered in odd-numbered years]

Credit points: 03
Year: 2011
Student Contribution Band: Band 4
Administered by: School of Pharmacy & Molecular Sciences

Offered in SP2, in odd numbered years only

BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY This area of the subject will involve a broad study of the organic and inorganic chemistry of biological processes - particularly those involved in metabolism and biosynthesis. The organic chemistry will focus on a review of the major classes of natural products from living systems (plants, animals, microorganisms) discussed in a way dictated by their likely biosynthetic origins and their biological activity. Experimental techniques that have been used to establish these biosynthetic pathways will also be addressed. The inorganic chemistry component will focus on the role that metal ions play in living systems. Topics of interest will include essential elements, metalloenzymes and proteins, specifically oxygen carrier proteins, storage proteins, hydrolase enzymes and redox-based proteins and enzymes. MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY General framework of the drug discovery and development process: Therapeutic targets; screening for lead compounds (natural products and synthetic compounds); optimisation of lead compounds {drug-target molecular interactions, access to target (ADME)}; preclinical and clinical trials; patenting and regulatory affairs. Research tools: Structure-Activity Relationships (QSAR, 3D QSAR): combinatorial chemistry approaches; molecular modelling in drug development; advanced synthetic chemistry including transition metal-catalysed cross coupling reactions (eg Heck, Stille, Suzuki etc) and an introduction to enantioselective organic synthesis. Case studies of individual drugs/drug classes: Case studies which are of current clinical relevance or have been important in the development of particular drug classes; use of metal complexes in medicine as diagnostic or therapeutic agents.

Learning Outcomes

Graduate Qualities

Prerequisites:CH2101
Inadmissible
Subject
Combinations:
CH2022 CH2032 CH3022 CH3032 CH3102

Availabilities

Townsville, Internal, Study Period 2
Census Date 25-Aug-2011
Coordinator: Assoc. Professor Michael Oelgemoeller
Lecturers: Dr Murray Davies, Assoc. Professor Bruce Bowden.
Contact hours:
  • 36 hours lectures
  • 36 hours practicals
    Assessment:end of semester exam (50% - 70%); practical component (20% - 40%); assignments (5% - 15%).

    Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.