Chemical biology
Summary
Chemical Biology is an interdisciplinary field using chemical principles and techniques to analyse and manipulate biological systems. It relies on small-molecule chemicals to gain an in-depth understanding of biology, and provides new tools and products ranging from basic research to therapeutics.
Content
!The introductory lecture will exceptionally take place on Wed Sep 9th, 2026 - 15:15-16:45 in room PH H3 33! (not on Tue Sep 8th!)
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This class revolves around the following central question:
"How can we use chemical tools to probe and manipulate biology on all levels of the central dogma of molecular biology (i.e. DNA, RNA and protein)?"
The following topics are covered (non-comprehensive overview):
- sequencing and synthesis of DNA, RNA and proteins
- gene and genome editing, mutagenesis
- probing and manipulation of nucleic acids and proteins
- enzymes (kinetics, inhibition and modulation)
- biosensors
- metabolic regulation and signalling
Keywords
Chemical biology, DNA, RNA, enzyme, protein, gene editing, metabolism, sequencing, biosensors
Learning Prerequisites
Required courses
This 3rd-year BSc course builds on preceeding years' introductory organic chemistry courses. Further, knowledge about the course content of CH-210: Biochemistry (by Prof. Christian Heinis) is required. Equivalent introductory courses in molecular biology, bioengineering, genetics and/or cell biology may be acceptable, but should discussed prior to participation with Prof. Jeschek.
Recommended courses
The following parallel course offered at EPFL is recommended:
Macromolecular structure and interactions (Prof. Beat Fierz)
Important concepts to start the course
Basic knowledge in chemistry and biochemistry is expected. Students particularly benefit from refreshing their knowledge on the following topics prior to the start of the course: central dogma of molecular biology, chemical structure of DNA/RNA/proteins, transcription and translation, the major components and general make up of pro- and eukaryotic cells.
Teaching methods
Power-point presentation, in-class interactive discussion, mid-term assignment
Expected student activities
active participation in discussions; preparation of mid-term assignment;
Assessment methods
- Final written exam
Supervision
| Office hours | Yes |
| Assistant.e.s | No |
| Forum | Yes |
| Others | Students are welcomed to contact the lecturer via email to ask questions and fix appointments |
Resources
Bibliography
There is no single textbook that covers all subjects for this course. Provided lecture slides combined with personal notes and self-studying are thus the most useful resources. The lecture slides cover all relevant learning topics.
Slides are posted on Moodle (link provided in the course or below).
Recommended text books for further reading:
- "Biochemistry" by Berg & Stryer. W.H. Freeman & Company
- "The molecular biology of the cell" by Alberts, Heald, Lewis, Morgan, Raff, Roberts and Walter
- "Introduction to Bioorganic Chemistry & Chemical Biology" by David van Vranken & Gregory Weiss; Garland Science.
Ressources en bibliothèque
Moodle Link
Dans les plans d'études
- Semestre: Automne
- Forme de l'examen: Ecrit (session d'hiver)
- Matière examinée: Chemical biology
- Cours: 2 Heure(s) hebdo x 14 semaines
- Type: obligatoire
- Semestre: Automne
- Forme de l'examen: Ecrit (session d'hiver)
- Matière examinée: Chemical biology
- Cours: 2 Heure(s) hebdo x 14 semaines
- Type: optionnel