This textbook provides a chemical blueprint with which to understand the synthesis
and function of molecules that comprise living cells. In order to tackle chemical
biology—a field of vast breadth and depth—as it continues to expand and evolve, we
focus on the organic chemistry of biooligomers. Biooligomers are responsible for every
main function of the cell, including control, communications, and manufacturing.
The central dogma of molecular biology serves as an organizing principle for students
embarking on a tour of these molecules. Starting at the level of genes and advancing
through each class of biooligomer—DNA, RNA, proteins, glycans, polyketides, and
terpenes—we study their chemistry, structure, and interactions with other molecules.
Ultimately, we return to the topic of chemical control over gene expression. Although
the majority of studies during the past millennium were based on model organisms,
we concentrate on human cells as much as possible.