A Molecular Modeling Program for Teaching Structural Biochemistry

The use of a molecular modeling program to teach structural biochemistry is described. Using the computer program HyperChem, biochemistry majors in a junior-level course make and analyze isomeric cyclopentanes and natural products and study drugs and other small molecules bound to proteins and DNA....

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Bibliographic Details
Published inJournal of chemical education Vol. 77; no. 3; p. 397
Main Authors Dabrowiak, James C, Hatala, Paul J, McPike, Mark
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Easton Division of Chemical Education 01.03.2000
American Chemical Society
Subjects
Biochemistry
Biological properties
Chemistry
Computers
Creativity
Deoxyribonucleic acid
DNA
Grading
Homework
Laboratories
Mathematical models
Molecules
Narcotics
Organic Chemistry
Physical properties
Professional Training
Quantum Mechanics
Science Curriculum
Science education
Student Interests
Teaching methods
Thermodynamics
Undergraduate Students
Visual Aids
Biophysical Chemistry
Upper-Division Undergraduate
Biochemistry
Computer Bulletin Board
Computer-Based Learning
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Summary:The use of a molecular modeling program to teach structural biochemistry is described. Using the computer program HyperChem, biochemistry majors in a junior-level course make and analyze isomeric cyclopentanes and natural products and study drugs and other small molecules bound to proteins and DNA. The flexibility of the program and the availability of a large number of structures through the files of the Protein Data Bank, PDB, make it possible to study many different molecules and to individualize the assignment for each student in the class. The approach not only enhances learning structural biochemistry but also helps to hold student interest in learning difficult concepts in physical chemistry presented in the lecture part of the course. In this report we outline the seven homework assignments, describe the computer facilities and support personnel needed, and comment on grading procedures used in the course. In addition to being useful in a biochemistry program, the outlined exercises may also provide a way for covering basic biochemical principles in a chemistry curriculum.
ISSN:0021-9584
1938-1328
DOI:10.1021/ed077p397