Unit Code: CHM822

Unit Name: Chemistry of Natural Products

Description: Natural product chemistry aims to provide an overview of the chemistry of secondary metabolites. It will also serve as an initial platform for more advanced excursions into the origin of natural products and their potential roles in drug discovery. Natural products have been a fertile area of chemical investigation for many years, driving the development of both analytical chemistries and new synthetic reactions and methodologies. The course builds upon fundamental chemical principles and guides the students through a wealth of diverse secondary metabolites with particular emphasis on those used in medicine. The chemistry and biological activity of the following classes of natural products viz. steroids, terpenoids, saponins, alkaloids, prostaglandins, polyacetylenes, quinones, pheromones and oxygen heterocyclic compounds will be discussed.

Learning Target Outcomes: On successful completion of this course, students will be able to : a) explain the process of and difference between synthetic and natural product biosynthesis pathways. b) identify the different biosynthesis pathways. c) identify the natural resources for potential medicinal, agrochemical and industrial applications. d) classify natural products based on structure and functions, and applications. e) use various extractions, chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques to isolate, detect and characterize compounds from natural sources. f) explain the mode of action, metabolism, resistivity and selectivity of any group of compounds (pharmaceuticals and pesticides).

Prerequisite: Bachelor Degree with Chemistry as a major subject

Prerequisite Sentence: N/A

Credit Point: 30

Offered In: Semester 1,2