Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22
None
Available as a Free Standing Elective
No
This is a core module for the medicinal chemistry degree programmes at Keele, focussing on understanding the interaction of small molecules with biological targets in the body and applying this to the design of drug molecules. Topics are presented with extensive use of case studies and illustrative examples. A series of interactive workshops and exercises are used to build upon the taught material using on-line resources such as the protein data bank and docking software to give real-world examples. Labs involve a multiple-step synthesis of an anti-bacterial agent, building on organic, synthetic and analytical skills. The module cumulates in a drug design exercise, in which teams of students undertake a simulated drug discovery programme, taking a molecule through iterative rounds of optimisation.
Aims
To develop an understanding of the fundamental principles used in medicinal chemistry to provide a deeper insight into the design and mode of action of medicines. To develop experimental and analytical laboratory skills.To develop problem solving and scientific presentation skills.To emphasise that medicinal chemistry builds upon core topics in organic, physical and inorganic chemistry.
Talis Aspire Reading ListAny reading lists will be provided by the start of the course.http://lists.lib.keele.ac.uk/modules/che-20081/lists
Intended Learning Outcomes
interpret the molecular structure of biological macromolecules in terms of their construction from biological building blocks (amino acids, peptides and proteins and DNA): 1,21,2apply the mechanisms and characteristics of the pharmacokinetic concepts of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion to explain the behaviour of drug molecules: 2employ individual and collaborative skills to prepare and present display materials: 2describe the drug discovery process and the stages involved in the development of new medicines and interpret this in the analysis of case studies: 1apply familiar concepts in organic synthesis and explain the challenges and compromises of multi-step synthesis, medicinal and process scale synthesis: 1,2identify likely intermolecular interactions between ligands and biomolecules and apply this to the design of drug molecules with structure-activity relationships:
Taught content: 20 hoursWorkshops, TBL and scheduled coursework sessions: 20 hoursLaboratory sessions: 15 hoursIndependent study, laboratory preparation and coursework preparation: 95 hours
Description of Module Assessment
1: Case Study weighted 30%Case studiesA series of short exercises (equivalent to 1500 words overall) testing students understanding of and engagement with the taught material and the laboratory course.
2: Practice Based Assessment weighted 70%Drug Design PortfolioA portfolio equivalent to 3500 words incorporating assessments involving scientific presentation, data analysis and collaborative teamworking.