Chem. 205A (Fall 2006): The Chemistry of Biology
Instructors: Joan S. Valentine and Jon M. Fukuto
T, Th 2-4 3440 MSB
Chemistry 205A is a graduate and advanced undergraduate course that focuses
on the intimate chemical details of important biological processes. The course provides
the basis for a fundamental chemical understanding of select biological processes.
Specifically targeted are students interested in the chemistry-biology interface. Thus,
chemistry majors seeking to develop a chemical understanding of biological processes
or biology/biochemistry majors wishing to extend their chemical knowledge of these
processes are encouraged to enroll. Below are several topics that are covered.
1. Amino acids: The functional group chemistry of amino acids is covered. The
biological processes that rely on this chemistry are also discussed.
2. Nucleic acids: A brief overview of the chemistry of the components of RNA and DNA
(phosphate, ribose and the bases) is given with an emphasis on DNA as a chemical
target in disease states.
3. Lipids and fatty acids: The chemistry of lipid oxidation and its role in toxicity and cell
signaling is covered.
4. Sugars and carbohydrates: The chemical properties of sugars are discussed along
with the importance of this chemistry in cell signaling/recognition.
5. Cofactors and prosthetic groups: The chemistry of flavins, hemes, pterins, metals
and other important species is discussed. The important catalytic and signaling
functions associated with this chemistry are covered.
6. Small molecule chemistry/biology: Recent advances in small molecule signaling and
toxicity are discussed. Of special interest are the small molecule diatomics NO, CO and
O2 as well as H2S and CO2.
7. Redox chemistry in biology: The role of redox chemistry in biology is discussed.
Specifically, the importance of thiols in redox biology is emphasized.