Introduction to Organic Chemistry
Stereoisomerism and Chirality
Chirality refers to the spatial arrangement of atoms, where molecules are non-superimposable mirror images of each other.
Clinical Implications
- Enantiomers can have drastically different pharmacological effects (e.g., thalidomide tragedy).
- Most enzymes and receptors are stereospecific, binding only one specific isomer.
- Enantiomeric purity is critical in drug manufacturing to prevent toxicity.
Key Concepts
- Chiral center: Carbon atom bonded to four different groups.
- Racemic mixture: Equal mixture of two enantiomers with zero optical rotation.
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