Chemistry of natural products

Natural products play a major role in biomolecular chemistry. They represent an important source of bioactive compounds for medicinal chemistry. This teaching unit provides a comprehensive overview of secondary metabolism and the origin of natural products from plants. Emphasis will be placed on the organic chemistry behind the various biotransformations that occur during the biosynthesis of each major class of molecules. A mechanistic approach will be used to understand the chemical basis of each transformation.

Hourly volumes* :

CM: 13 

TD : 7

The aim of this course is to familiarize the student with the chemistry of natural products, providing a fundamental understanding of: the concept of natural products as secondary metabolites (terpenes, alkaloids, phenols, polyketides), their structures, classification, biosynthetic and synthetic pathways. At the end of this course, students will be able to: 1- identify the different classes of natural products; 2- understand the chemical basis of their biosynthetic pathways; 3- understand the field of biomimetic synthesis of compounds of biological interest.

Organic chemistry bachelor's degree

Written final exam: 2 hours

Course:

- Introduction 

- Secondary metabolites

- Different families of natural products: biosynthesis and synthesis routes, illustrations in the field of bioactive molecules and pharmacological properties.

• Terpenoids

• Alkaloids
• Phenolic compounds
• Polyketides

- Biomimetic synthesis of natural compounds

TD:

Illustration of the concepts seen in class by solving exercises.