Medicinal chemistry 1: Structure

This unit introduces you to the principles of molecular structure that determine the chemical properties and mechanism of action of therapeutic agents. After examining how the rules of chemical bonding and molecular shape derive from the electronic structure of atoms, the unit will explore how these rules lead to the complex architecture of organic chemistry and to patterns of molecular reactivity. This will involve a discussion of the following topics:

• Hydrocarbons (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes)
• Haloalkanes
• Chirality
• Alcohols, ethers and thiols
• Aromatic compounds (benzene and its derivatives)

Analytical methods (spectrophotometry, NMR and IR spectroscopy) to identify molecules and their structural features will be introduced in theory and practice. In laboratory classes, you will learn how to harness molecular reactivity for the preparation of medicinal compounds using common organic chemical techniques.