Let’s start with background on biology, chemistry and drugs.

We are all chemical engines. So, what exactly is a chemical? Chemicals are anything that occupies space in the universe and exist in either a solid, liquid, or gas form – matter! Chemicals within living organisms are considered biochemicals and are organized into chemical networks (an integrated chemical process that establishes life and the maintenance of homeostasis). Homeostasis is simply a scientific term that means maintenance of the status quo. So, a healthy living organism must respond to its environment and manage different threats. The systems that are designed to ensure that the cell remains healthy are called homeostasis. Drugs are also chemicals. Drugs enter an organism and make their way through biological systems to interact with many chemicals. Sometimes those interactions lead to changes in the chemicals with which the drugs interact, altering one’s physiology or psychology. One must have a keen understanding of basic scientific terminology, these chemical networks, and biological systems to create drugs and use them to make a difference in all patient populations. Ready? Let’s get started.

• What is a chemical?
• What is a drug?
• How do chemical reactions occur?
• Biochemicals within organisms
• Cells – the basic unit of life
• Types of polymers
• The languages of life – nucleic acids and protein language
• DNA and RNA
• A change in the structure of a gene – mutations
• Beneficial and harmful gene mutations

For more information on the covered topics or to follow along with this Intro to Medical Science episode, download the supporting slide deck.

For definitions of terms, search our glossary.

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We hope that you join us on this journey to discover, develop and provide individualized antisense medicines for free for life for nano-rare patients. The ultimate personalized medicine approach – for free, for life.