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Molecular Handshake: Recognition through Weak Noncovalent Interactions

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Parvathi S. Murthy

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Georgian Court University, Lakewood, NJ 08701-2697

J. Chem. Educ., 2006, 83 (7), p 1010

DOI: 10.1021/ed083p1010

Publication Date (Web): July 1, 2006

Section:

History, Education, and Documentation

Abstract

The weak noncovalent interactions between substances, the handshake in the form of electrostatic interactions, van der Waals' interactions or hydrogen bonding is universal to all living and nonliving matter. They significantly influence the molecular and bulk properties and behavior of matter. Their transient nature affects chemical reactions and the effectiveness of chromatographic separations and is of central importance in biological processes. In some cases, the collective effect of a large number of these weak interactions determines properties, and, in others, it is the specificity of the interactions that is of significance. Molecular recognition through weak noncovalent interactions is contributing to research in chemical genomics, drug discovery, and materials design.The goal of the undergraduate chemistry curriculum is to teach students to understand the relationship between molecular structure and composition of matter and its properties. The current undergraduate chemistry curriculum incorporates the concepts of weak noncovalent interactions in a limited and sporadic way. Consequently, the students do not get the broader picture of the nature and influence of these interactions on the properties of chemical and biological systems. This article traces the development of our thinking about molecular recognition through noncovalent interactions, highlights their salient features, and suggests ways for comprehensive education on this important concept.

Keywords (Audience):

High School / Introductory Chemistry

Keywords (Domain):

Analytical Chemistry

Keywords (Feature):

Concepts in Biochemistry

Keywords (Pedagogy):

Misconceptions / Discrepant Events

Keywords (Subject):

Applications of Chemistry

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