Organic Chemistry

Study of carbon-containing compounds and their reactions.

Practical Applications

Pharmaceuticals and Drug Design

How Are Medicines Made?

Organic chemistry is crucial in designing and making drugs that save lives. Scientists use their knowledge of molecules and reactions to develop medicines that interact with the body in specific ways.

Drug Development Process

  1. Identify a biological target (like an enzyme).
  2. Design molecules that fit and affect the target.
  3. Test and modify compounds for safety and effectiveness.

Why It Matters

Drugs like aspirin, antibiotics, and cancer treatments are all products of organic chemistry.

Real World Connections

Vaccines, painkillers, and treatments for diseases all come from organic chemical research.

Examples

  • Synthesizing penicillin to fight bacterial infections.

  • Designing anti-cancer drugs that target specific enzymes in tumors.