We will learn how natural products are normally classified according to their biosynthetic origins and chemical properties. A special emphasis will be placed on how chemical structure affects the physiological function of various natural products. Since this is an upper level course it will be assumed that students are able and equipped to do research in an area that is somewhat new to them. Instead of reviewing and applying lecture material, much of the homework will involve discovering and research in areas related to topics the lectures have not yet covered. This is a multi-disciplinary approach to the subject of natural products, therefore we will draw from the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, botany, clinical medicine, pharmacology and pharmacognosy.
Molecules are interesting and important.
Molecular thinking helps us understand natural phenomena. From the lecture, text, and discovery projects in this course, you will be able to ask questions about natural phenomena and use models and metaphor to describe what is going on at the molecular level. Finally, you will continue to take charge of your own liberal arts education. This course requires a significant amount of self-discipline and independent motivation. To get the most out of this course, you must put your own best effort into the course.