CHEM 478
Medicinal Chemistry (WI)
1. Catalog Entry
CHEM 478
Medicinal Chemistry (WI)
Credit hours (3)
Prerequisites: BIOL/CHEM 471
This course introduces students to the discovery, development, and characterization
of chemicals used in medicine, applying their knowledge of organic chemistry and biochemistry.
2. Detailed Description of Course
An outline of the topics covered:
1) Basic drug characteristics
2) Major families of drug targets
3) Modes of drug action
4) Process of drug discovery and optimization
5) Process of getting a drug to market
6) Major tools used in drug development
7) Major classifications of drugs
3. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
CHEM 478 is a lecture-based course in which students are encouraged to participate with comments and questions. The course uses a standard medicinal chemistry textbook that the students are expected to use to guide the study of each of the topics covered. Molecular visualization and modeling software will be used to demonstrate principles of drug action and development. Students will complete a research project focused on a topic related to medicinal chemistry.
4. Goals and Objectives of the Course
After successful completion of Medicinal Chemistry, the student will be able to:
1) Proficiently apply the topics listed above.
2) Analyze and interpret scientific literature in the field of medicinal chemistry.
3) Communicate course concepts effectively.
5. Assessment Measures
Assessment of the student’s success in the course is based on examinations and a cumulative final examination, a research project, and other assignments, which may include homework, in-class assignments, and/or quizzes.
6. Other Course Information
The students in Medicinal Chemistry at Radford University are mainly Chemistry and Biology students interested in careers in medicine, pharmacy, or pharmaceutical research, and the course is designed to meet their needs and interests to the greatest extent possible. The course can also be of value to any other students who might have an interest in the molecular basis of modern medicine.
Review and Approval
March 01, 2021