University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 10

ECTS credits : 5

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

Availability restrictions: Not automatically available to General Degree students

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

This module will examine new methodologies for drug discovery. An overview of the processes of target discovery, lead discovery and lead optimisation will be given. The use of structural biology (protein crystallography, NMR), computational chemistry and combinatorial chemistry in 'rational drug design' will be described. The module will look at the technologies behind combinatorial library design, synthesis and high throughput screening. Broad and focused libraries will be discussed. Several examples will be explored, such as the development of drugs against AIDS and influenza.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must ( pass 1 module from {CH2601, CH2603} and pass at least 1 module from {CH2501, CH2701} ) or ( pass 2 modules from {CH2501, CH2701} and pass CH1601 or pass CH1202 )

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2 - 3 lectures per week over 9 - 10 weeks (within Weeks 1-11) and 2 - 3 tutorials in total.

Scheduled learning hours: 20

Guided independent study hours: 80

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 100%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 0%

Re-assessment: Oral Re-assessment = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor N J Westwood
Module teaching staff: Prof N J Westwood, TBC