Time Schedule:
Christophe Verlinde
CONJ 545
Seattle Campus
Forces governing molecular interactions in biology; with a focus on medicine. Principles of computer modeling techniques in use for predicting the molecular behavior of proteins, ligands, and their complexes. In computro ligand discovery; drug design, and the understanding at the atomic level of some genetic diseases. Two computer lab sessions. Offered: Sp.
Class description
CLASS TAKES PLACE IN WEEKS 6-10 OF SPRING QUARTER
This course aims to provide a basic understanding of the various forces governing molecular interactions in biology, with a focus on medicine. In addition, students will be introduced to the principles of computer modeling techniques that are in use for predicting the molecular behaviour of proteins, ligands and their complexes. The power of these techniques will then be illustrated in terms of in computro ligand discovery, drug design, and the understanding at the atomic level of some genetic diseases. Practical experience will be gained during one computer lab session.
Note that this is NOT a training course in using a particular molecular software package.
Sessions ===== 1.Forces and Energies 2.HBonds and Salt Bridges 3.Electrostatics 4.Molecular simulations 5.Solvation 6.Membrane protein folding and stability 7.Molecular modeling session: ligand docking
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Lectures, assignments, and computer lab.
Recommended preparation
The course will assume knowledge at the level of an advanced undergraduate level of biochemistry, math and physics. Be aware that principles of physical chemistry and equations will not be eschewed. (I assume you know calculus and Pythagoras' theorem, enthalpy, entropy, free energy)
Recommended reading (Not mandatory) Andrew R. Leach. "Molecular Modelling: Principles and Applications". Prentice Hall, 2nd edition, 2001.
Class assignments and grading
Studying papers and presenting them.
Grading Students will be graded on in-class participation and a final written exam. Participation includes in-class assignments and the demonstration of familiarity with assigned reading during in-class discussions.
Grade history: median 3.5
