Application of fundamental chemistry principles to an understanding of chemical reactions and molecular structure in biological systems.
CHEM 305 Biological Chemistry focuses on how the concepts and techniques from various fields of chemistry may be applied to interpret chemical transformations in biological systems and to determine the structure of biomolecules. The paper will evaluate frontiers in biological chemistry by identifying the underlying fundamental concepts of molecular transformation and structure.
| Paper title | Biological Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Paper code | CHEM305 |
| Subject | Chemistry |
| EFTS | 0.1500 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | First Semester |
| Domestic Tuition Fees (NZD) | $1,080.30 |
| International Tuition Fees (NZD) | $4,858.95 |
- Prerequisite
- 18 200-level CHEM points
- Recommended Preparation
- CHEM 205
- Schedule C
- Science
- Eligibility
- CHEM 305 is an important paper for chemistry majors wishing to proceed to a career that involves biological chemistry and also for all general degree students requiring knowledge and understanding of biological chemistry.
- Contact
- Dr Alan Hayman
Tel 64 3 479 7923
Location: Science II, 4n9
hayman@chemistry.otago.ac.nz - More information link
- View more information about CHEM 305
- Teaching staff
Course Co-ordinator: Dr Alan. R. Hayman
Dr E.W.Tan
Assoc Prof Steve Moratti
Dr Courtney Ennis- Paper Structure
- Amino Acids and Peptides
- The chemistry and reactivity of amino acids and peptides
- Methods of isolation, purification and analysis of peptides and proteins
- Strategies used in the chemical synthesis of peptides
- Enzymes
- The role and modes of action of enzymes in catalysing biological reactions
- Structure activity relationships and kinetics of enzymes
- Mechanisms of enzyme reactions using proteases as examples
- Strategies for enzyme inhibition in drug design
- Spectroscopy
of Biological Systems
- Spectroscopic investigations are integral to the study of biological materials. We will examine the principles and applications of (i) FTIR and Raman spectroscopy to interrogate polypeptides and proteins and (ii) NMR, EPR and Mossbauer spectroscopy to study specific metalloenzymes.
- Polymers
- An overview of polymers and their properties
- Chemical synthesis of natural polymers
- Biocompatible and biodegradable polymers
- Use of polymers in drug delivery and devices
- Amino Acids and Peptides
- Teaching Arrangements
- Three lectures per week and one 4-hour lab class per week.
- Textbooks
- Recommended:
Jones, J. Amino acid and peptide synthesis, Oxford University Press
Bruice, P.Y. Organic Chemistry, (4th edn), Prentice-Hall
Fersht, A. Enzyme structure and mechanism, Freeman - Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Interdisciplinary perspective, Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Critical thinking,
Self-motivation.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
- Expectations at the completion of the paper:
- An understanding of the scientific concepts underlying chemical transformation and structure determination involving biological molecules
- An appreciation of the chemical factors controlling biological processes
- An ability to identify fundamental concepts in chemistry underlying biological systems
- Demonstrated expertise in the generic activities of information retrieval, critical analysis and presentation, logistical planning and cooperative teamwork
- An understanding of how chemical knowledge is applied in a practical, problem-solving context
