An Introduction to Medicinal Chemistry & Molecular Recognition

Abstract

This learning resource is focused on medicinal chemistry and covers topics in organic chemistry and how the chemistry of specific drugs can affect the design, metabolism, and therapeutic utility of these molecules. This subject lies at the intersection of synthetic chemistry and human biology and uniquely draws on concepts from both fields. In this resource, we provide a framework for the design of drugs and small molecules, as well as the properties of hit and lead compounds. We elaborate on topics in pharmacokinetics with emphasis on chemical properties that can be key liabilities in absorption and metabolic stability. We are intending for learners to be able to identify i) the chemical basis for drug structures, ii) potential protein-drug binding interactions, iii) metabolic processing/liabilities in drugs, and iv) structural changes to optimize drug interactions/stability. Collectively, these four learning outcomes should provide the basis for a learner to rapidly analyze the chemical structure of a drug that they have not been exposed to and identify fundamental properties that would affect its therapeutic relevance and potential.

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