Irena Kostova - Böcker

The book provides a detailed state-of-the-art overview of inorganic chemistry applied to medicinal chemistry and biology. It covers the newly emerging field of metals in medicine and the future of medicinal inorganic chemistry. Further it includes metal based medicines used in alternative systems of Ayurveda as well as Tibetan Zuotai to make it a holistic approach. It is an essential reading for every researcher and student in medicinal and bioinorganic chemistry.

General and Inorganic Chemistry covers the fundamental principles and general directions of chemistry and the physical and chemical properties of the elements and their compounds, with an emphasis on their biological role. The first part of the textbook presents basic theoretical topics such as the structure of the atom, periodic table and law, chemical bonding and complex compounds. It includes topics related to chemical processes, such as chemical thermodynamics, chemical kinetics, catalysis, chemical equilibrium, redox processes, physicochemical analysis, as well as topics on solutions, such as disperse systems, electrolyte solutions and colloidal solutions. This part gives students systematic theoretical and practical knowledge in the field of general chemistry, with an emphasis on biochemical processes. The second part of the textbook is dedicated to chemical elements. It is built on the concept of interconnection "place in the periodic table - chemical properties - biological role of chemical elements and their compounds" and is adapted to the needs of pharmaceutical practice. It includes an analysis of the sources and preparations of the elements, their common compounds, their physical and chemical properties, and their applications. Attention is specifically focused on the role and influence of chemical elements and their compounds on biological systems and mainly on the human body. Students are expected to build the necessary thinking and skills to apply this knowledge in their professional realization. The compulsory course in general and inorganic chemistry is in line with the modern requirements for in-depth fundamental knowledge and practical skills in the training of pharmacy and medical students. At the same time, the students pursuing MSc Chemical Engineering and other professional studies will also find the book extremely useful. The objective is to provide the students with comprehensive treatment of the subject on modern lines.