Module Details
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title BIOINORGANIC CHEMISTRY: C OPTION
Code CHEM443
Coordinator Dr D Bradshaw
Chemistry
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2008-09 M Level First Semester 7.5

Aims

The aims of the module are:

  • To introduce the role of metals in biological systems and the range of different processes that they regulate. Focussing on the metalloenzymes, the coordination environments about the constituent metal ions and their co-factors will be discussed and the influence this has on the kinetics, catalytic turnover and mechanisms of important life processes.
  • To provide an overview of the techniques used to characterise metals in natural systems.
  • To introduce the concept of biomimetic studies and show how these can aid the understanding of the mechanisms employed by metalloenzymes
  • To provide an insight into how metals are used in medicine


Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module the students will:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of the varied roles played by metal ions in biology.
  • Understand the mechanisms by which metal ions can direct very different reactions in living systems.
  •  Be aware of the physical techniques used to characterise the structure and delineate the mechanisms of metalloenzymes.
  • Have an appreciation for the significance of biomimetic studies using small molecule analogues of active sites and the importance of ligand design.
  • Have insight into the use of metals in medicine and the design of metallo-drugs.


Syllabus
1 

1. Metalloenzymes (11 lectures)

 

1.1 Introduction to the inorganic ‘elements’ of life: what these are and conditions affecting their availability

 

1.2 Basic introduction to enzyme structure and function, how their kinetic parameters are calculated and what they mean.

 

1.3 Characterisation of metals in biological systems (including EPR and Mossbauer spectroscopies, X-ray diffraction and absorption methods and isomorphous replacement)

 

1.4 Focus on the following important structures/mechanisms:

 

  • Electron transfer and redox systems (Cupredoxins, Cytoch romes, Fe-S clusters)
  • Oxygen activation and transport (Haemoglobin, Hemocyanin, Hemerythrin)
  • Iron storage and transport (Siderophores, Transferrin, Ferritin)
  • Small molecule activation (Lewis Acid enzymes, Hydrogenases, importance of biological Zn and dinuclear metal-centres)
  • Bioinorganic chemistry of Ni and Co (Urease, B12, Cobalamin)
  • DNA/RNA enzymes

 

1.5 Biomineralisation (how nature makes inorganic minerals for use in skeletons, teeth, shells etc. and the key processes involved)

 

1.6 Biomineral inspired materials chemistry

 

2. Biomimetic Inorganic comple xes (2 lectures)

 

2.1 Introduce concept of biomimetic studies (aims/goals)

 

2.2 Case studies with Zn, Ni, and Cu complexes (ligand design, activity of the complexes and comparison with natural systems)

 

2.3 How these complexes can be used as sensors e.g. for NO

 

2.4 Demonstrate the synergy between modelling studies and the generation of new chemistry indicating how model systems can be applied to real problems

 

3. Metals in medicine and the environment (3 lectures)

 

3.1 Introduction to medicinal inorganic chemistry and aspects o f drug design

 

3.2 Anti-cancer drugs (focussing on those containing Pt)

 

3.3 Insulin mimics containing V

 

3.3 Radiopharmaceuticals based on 99mTc

 

3.5 Lanthanide MRI contrast agents


Teaching and Learning Strategies

The factual material will be presented in the 17 lectures together with directed reading of the additional resources associated with the module placed on VITAL. Case studies will be used to illustrate the material and demonstrate the applicability of the principles described to specific cases. The assignment will allow students to demonstrate thier understanding of the material within the context of their wider reading


Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 17

           17
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 58
TOTAL HOURS 75

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Written Examination   2 hours  First  80  August resit opportunity for PGT students only, where applicable. see notes    Year 3 ( and Year 4) students resit at the next normal opportunity. Written Examination comprising a mix of problem based and descriptive questions designed to test the students' knowledge and understanding of, and ability to apply, lecture material and structured in such a way as to allow the student to demonstrate achievement of the module learning outcomes.  
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Bioinorganic chemistry assignment    first  20  Only in exceptional circumstances  Standard University Policy applies - see Department/School handbook for details.  An extended piece of written work on bioinorganic chemistry designed to allow students to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the lecture material and of material from their own reading and research of the literature and to demonstrate achievement of the module learning outcomes. This work isnot marked anonymously.  

Recommended Texts

Bioinorganic Chemistry

  • "The biological chemistry of the elements" JJR Frausto da Silva and RJP Williams 2nd ed OUP ISBN 0-19-850848-4
  • "Biocoordination chemistry" DE Fenton, OUP Chemistry Primer ISBN 0-19-855773-6