The Chemistry and Biochemistry of Poisons

4.0 credits

In this course, we will explore both the science of poisonous substances and their impact on human history and culture. What is a poison? Where can poisons be found in nature? Who discovered them, and how? Focusing on small molecule poisons, we will study the chemical and biochemical mechanisms underlying their toxicity and discuss how antidotes work. Through case studies, we will examine the wide variety of uses people have found for these compounds, from committing crimes to practicing medicine. Source materials will include historical, literary, and scientific texts, recent essays, and popular culture. Prerequisite: completion of two semesters of organic chemistry.