Chemical Biology

In this course we will explore scientific advances propelled by research at the interface of organic chemistry and molecular biology. The field of chemical biology involves the manipulation of biological macromolecules (proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates) using synthetic organic chemistry. These organic transformations are not used by nature and thus permit site-specific modifications that enable study or alteration of macromolecule function. Examples include antibody-drug conjugates for targeted chemotherapy and fluorescent probes of macromolecule interactions. In the lab, we will apply the techniques of chemical biology and ask new research questions. Fundamentals of molecular biology will be discussed as they pertain to our exploration of chemical biology. (CHEM 0205) (5 hrs lect., 5 hrs lab).