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Module Outline:

The aim of the course is to cover in depth the chemistry of three major classes of biologically important molecules; carbohydrates, peptides and proteins, and nucleic acids. In addition, the course will provide an introduction to molecular imaging and cover methods for labelling of biomolecules with fluorescent dyes and radionuclides.

Module Aims:

At the end of the module students should be able to:

1. Know the structure, conformation and stereochemistry of the carbohydrates, and to understand the chemical reactivity of mono-and di-saccharides.
2. Recognise the structure and conformational properties of amino acids, peptide and proteins. To understand strategies and methods for the chemical synthesis of native and labelled proteins.
3. Understand the relationships between structure and conformation of nucleic acids; to understand the chemical reactivity of nucleic acids, and to gain insight into how chemical reactivity affects the biological properties of nucleic acids.
4. Appreciate the underlying principles for imaging with optical and nuclear techniques, and to understand in depth the methods for labelling of biomolecules. To know how radionuclides are produced, their radioactive decay properties and their applications for imaging.

Teaching and Learning Methods:

Lectures: The topics will be introduced through a blended delivery of asynchronous videos with online activities, and support hours.

Self-study: In addition to timetabled hours it is expected that you engage in self-study in order to master the material. This can take the form of practicing example questions (additional questions available on Moodle and past exam questions) and further reading in textbooks and online.