MChem Chemistry

The unit is delivered by Profs David Leys, Sam Hay and Dr Neil Dixon. Each of the three elements of the course consists of 6-7 lectures and 1 to 2 workshops, and is assessed by exam + course work element.

The unit aims to look at protein structure and function relationship in detail, with a focus on looking at proteins relevant to the chemistry (ie mainly enzymes) and consisting of three elements: protein 3D structure determination, protein modelling studies and protein:ligand interactions. The latter aims to look at the importance of non-covalent interactions in chemical and biological systems, and describe some applications in modern chemical research.

An understanding of the general properties of the 4 main classes of biomolecules, their general 3D structural features and how this relates to their biochemical function. A clear appreciation of the complexity of biomolecules and the emergent properties that arise from the modular design that underpins them. An ability to visualise protein:ligand complexes and correlate structure features with solution properties. This will provide you with a foundation for the further study of complex biochemical processes, biotechnological application/green chemistry and synthetic biology.

Prof David Leys (8 lectures + 4 workshops on macromolecular 3D visualisation)

2 lectures as Recap on Aqueous chemistry and non-covalent bonding in biology: Hydrogen bonding; Van der Waals; Ionic bonding; Hydrophobic effect; pH/pKa. Protein structure and function: amino acids; primary/secondary/tertiary/quaternary structure, folds and folding, denaturation and stability, dynamic behaviour; advanced concepts in ligand binding

6 lectures on advanced concepts in protein structure determination/modelling / protein ligand binding + workshop

Dr Neil Dixon (6 lectures)

Advanced molecular biology, Nucleotides, inherent properties and reactivity. DNA and RNA covalent and 3D structure. DNA structure – double helices, Hoogsteen base pairing. Triple helices. Base stacking. RNA structure.

Dr Sam Hay (6 lectures + workshop on mechanism/kinetic models) Advanced Biological catalysis: Enzymes introduction: Active sites,

Problem solving skills, data mining. modelling and visualisation of complex molecular structures; communication skills.

Feedback mechanisms will include direct interactions with students in the lectures as well as in the workshops. Lecturers will make themselves available via office hours or via email.