This course provides an integrated introduction to the chemistry, biosynthesis, extraction, analysis, and synthetic modification of natural products with biological and pharmaceutical relevance. It explores the diversity of naturally occurring compounds and their applications in biotechnology, pharmacology, and industry. Through a combination of lectures and laboratory work, students develop both theoretical understanding and practical skills in the isolation, characterization, and transformation of natural compounds.
Chemistry, Synthesis and Analysis of Natural Products
Hybrid
Course Overview
Key Topics
- Classification and biological significance of natural products
- Major classes of natural compounds, including terpenoids, steroids, phenolic compounds, and alkaloids
- Extraction and separation techniques for natural products
- Chromatographic and coupled analytical methods, including HPLC, GC, LC–MS, and GC–MS
- Spectroscopic methods for structural elucidation, including UV–Vis, FT–IR, Raman, NMR, and mass spectrometry
- Design, synthesis, and chemical modification of natural metabolites
- Structure–activity relationships and selected pharmaceutical case studies
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Identify and classify the main categories of natural products
- Apply key extraction, purification, and analytical techniques
- Interpret spectroscopic data for chemical structure determination
- Design simple synthetic routes and chemical transformations
- Carry out and present laboratory investigations related to natural products
Teaching & Learning Format: Hybrid
Assessment
- Quizzes
- Laboratory reports
- Semester project
- Oral presentation
- Class participation and discussion
Indicative Background: Prior exposure to organic chemistry and analytical chemistry is recommended.