CHM3104 Natural Products Chemistry

This course provides a basic knowledge of natural products chemistry with emphasis on biosynthesis of secondary metabolites and chemical interactions between living organisms. Topics covered include an overview of primary and secondary metabolism, modern techniques for studying secondary metabolism and biosynthesis, biological reactions, chemical interactions between living organisms, and classes of bioactive compounds grouped according to building blocks and biogenesis viz; the acetate pathway (fatty acids and polyketides), the shikimate pathway (aromatic amino acids and phenylpropanoids), the mevalonate (terpenoid and steroids), alkaloids, peptides and amino acid derivatives, and carbohydrates

Course Objectives
By the end of this course, the students should be able to: 

• To understand the significance of natural products in terms of their biosynthesis, biological activity and chemical synthesis.
• Distinguish main classes of natural products.
• Propose a biosynthetic route for the major classes of natural products.
• Rationalize the structures of novel secondary metabolites in terms of a plausible biogenesis.

Learning outcomes
The learners are expected to:

• Understand the role of natural products in living organisms and their biosynthesis 
• Have greater understanding of organic synthesis with natural product targets.
• Appreciate the origins of secondary metabolites.
• Recognize the major building blocks that are used by nature to synthesize secondary metabolites.
• Understand the ecological roles played by secondary metabolites.
• Understand the molecular mechanisms of the most important enzyme catalyzed reactions in secondary metabolism, and associated coenzyme.
• Appreciate the similarities and differences between chemical reaction in the cell and the test tube.
• Understand the impact of the natural products discussed on society and organic chemistry.