This course will introduce students to new developments in chemistry and biology, with emphasis on synthetic and functional aspects of proteins, peptides and small molecules. Basic concepts of bioorganic chemistry will be presented in the context of the current literature and students will have the opportunity to learn about the experimental methods that are used. An introduction to combinatorial chemistry in the context of drug design will also be presented. Students will be required to keep abreast of the current literature, and homework will be assigned on a regular basis. The homework assignments will require data interpretation and experimental design. Students enrolled in the graduate level course (09-719) will be required to write and present an original research proposal, in addition to the homework assignments, midterm, and final exam that are required for the undergraduate course. (Graduate Course: 12 units 09-719) 3 hrs. lec.