Level: Level 1

Target Students:  F100, F101, F103, F105, FC17, FC1R, CF71

Taught Semesters:

Prerequisites: Grade B in A2 level Chemistry or above

Corequisites:  None.

Summary of Content:  The module will provide the foundation to understanding nature building blocks. An overview of the structure and functions of lipids, amino acids, carbohydrates and nucleotides will be included. Simple reactivity of these molecules, with a strong emphasis on their biological roles will be discussed. Case studies will be adopted to put in perspective the chemistry and biological relevance of the molecules of life. The module will also reinforce fundamentals of organic chemistry such as stereochemistry, functional group reactivity, covalent and non-covalent bonding. Two workshops are included where the students will be presented with problem sets. Summative feedback is provided after the exam by the module convenor. Students with an interest on Chemical Biology are strongly encouraged to take this module as it form the basis, and is a requisite for other optional modules in this area at higher level (e.g. F12MCM)

Method and Frequency of Class:
Specific Activities are not listed

Method of Assessment: 

Convenor: 
Dr F Paradisi

Education Aims:  To introduce and explain the chemistry, biological relevance, and functionality of the essential building blocks of life (lipids, amino acids, carbohydrates, and nucleotides). To explain at a chemical level how proteins and nucleic acid assemble. To use simple organic chemistry to explain and exemplify basic and fundamental biological reactions. To interlink a structural understanding of biological molecules with case studies describing selected diseases (metabolic disorders, cancer).