Drug Discovery and Development. 3 Credit Hours

Catalog description

This course provides students with an understanding of the overall process of drug discovery and development. It covers the basic principles of how new drugs are discovered, how drugs interact with their biological targets, and application of medicinal chemistry in lead optimization. Focused lectures on specific therapeutic areas will include drug development for cancer, diabetes, pain, and psychiatric disorders. Patenting, phase 1, 2 and 3 clinical trials, and marketing processes will be covered, as will contract opportunities for basic science researchers with drug companies. Case studies of both successful and unsuccessful drug candidates will be presented, where students will learn about the entire drug discovery and development process. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have a comprehensive knowledge of the fundamental principles of drug discovery and development, leading to successful implementation of the new drug in the clinic.