Molecular Aspects of Drug Action - SIB2012

Assessment 2: In-Class Test

In class test illustrating exam style questions.

In-Class Test

Assessment 1: Written assignment (coursework)

A formative practical (simulated or real) report upon which feedback will be given.

Written assignment

Assessment 2: Exam

Exam

Assessment 1: Written Assignment

The module will start with an overview of fundamental concepts in pharmacology including the absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs (ADME).
The module will then explore the molecular aspects of drug action, with detailed examples of various targets (including receptors, ion channels, enzymes and transporters).
Students will investigate the theoretical relationship between ligand concentration and binding-site occupancy (Hill-Langmuir equation). This will be combined with discussion in lectures of protein-ligand interactions and what factors may influence binding affinity.
As the largest family of proteins targeted by drug discovery methods, the G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are of fundamental importance to pharmacology. Individual case studies of GPCRs will be used to highlight the fundamental concepts covered in the first term. The case studies will highlight the therapeutic relevance of GPCRs with details of their molecular properties, kinetic models of action, and receptor oligomerization.
In the latter part of the module, students will learn about biopharmaceuticals and gene therapy.
The module will include consideration of the drug discovery and development process and technologies involved (chemical screen libraries, assay development), including high throughput screening.
The stages of development of a new drug with details of initial lead-finding, optimization, pre-clinical development, phase I, II, III trials and regulatory approval will be discussed.

School of Applied Sciences

<a href="https://library.hud.ac.uk/readinglists/SIB2012">https://library.hud.ac.uk/readinglists/SIB2012</a>

Biology

SIB2012 - Molecular Aspects of Drug Action

Molecular Aspects of Drug Action

be able to understand the concept of binding affinity and the equilibrium dissociation constant-KD.

be able to use both one-compartment and two-compartment pharmacokinetic models to investigate absorption, distribution and excretion kinetics.

be able to relate knowledge of the intermolecular forces involved in ligand-binding to the problem of structure-based drug design.

be able to discuss recent advances and current challenges in pharmacological drug discovery and development.

be able to understand the relevance of biopharmaceuticals.

be able to illustrate with examples, the biology of GPCRs and how therapeutic intervention may prevent or reduce disease symptoms.

be able to apply knowledge of the principles of drug action in simulated or real laboratory procedures to investigate pharmacological phenomena.

be able to investigate the dose response of drugs on living tissues/whole organisms.

be able to critically evaluate in vitro and in vivo models used to test drug actions.

be able to understand the concept of intrinsic activity and illustrate this with relevant examples.

be able to undertake structured problem solving and show accuracy in calculations.

be able to discuss the ethical issues surrounding gene therapy.