Organic Compounds In Medicine

. Organic Compounds: Compounds Containing C=O Groups

*Learning objectives:
1. To give an introduction to the chemistry of compounds containing the CO (carbonyl) group. .
2. To begin to understand the chemistry of carbonyl compounds present in simple molecules and also in sugars, fats and proteins. .

Diagnostic Test:
Try this short test. If you score more than 80 % you can use the chapter as a revision of your knowledge. If you score less than 80 % you probably need to work through the text and test yourself again at the end using the same test.

1. The smell of ethanal is like musty apples. What complaint does this indicate if found on a person’s breath?
2. Acetone, CH3.CO.CH3, is a common ketone. What is its chemical name?
3. Vinegar, CH3.COOH, is called by what chemical name?
4. What is a possible ester solvent for glues often abused by glue sniffers?
5. Sugars can contain aldehyde groups; one such common sugar is C6H12O6. Name this compound.
6. When two sugar molecules join together, the compound’s general name is what?
7. This common compound is taken for angina, headaches and is an anti-inflammatory. What could this compound be?
8. Glucose is oxidized in the body to give energy. What are the waste products of this chemical reaction?
9. Fats or lipids are a combination of two compounds. What are the general names for these compounds?

Short story:
Ahmad said ‘I must have passed out when shopping in the village, because the next thing I remember is lying here in the doctor’s surgery.’ The practice nurse detected a smell on her breath, not of alcohol, but of fusty or rotting apples (of ethanal). This could be an early indication of diabetes. Later tests showed this to be true. Suitable immediate treatment was given.
(HINT: when u talk to some one you should be a way from him at least 100 cm).
4.1. Simple aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids, and esters.
Carbonyl compounds all contain the C=O group. Compounds that contain carbonyl groups, C=O, are a part of at least four different simple homologous series, namely aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and esters. These carbonyl groups are also part of important larger molecules of carbohydrates, proteins, sugars and fats or lipids. This covers a large number of molecules used in our bodies for making new cells and producing energy, so understanding the structure and properties of the C=O bond is important (Table 4.1).