In our global health cure class, we created 3d molecules. For example, my molecule Atorvastatin, helps you loose weight and lowers your cholesterol. During this process I answered two main questions. (1.) Why do scientist create 3d models of molecules? (2.) Why is it helpful to build a molecule?
The reason why scientists create 3d models is to get a more in depth look at the molecule, to see how it works and understan how they connect. The reason why it is helpful is because it shows you how it effects your body. This project was made out of wooden sticks and styrofoam balls. For example, white is hydrogen, black is carbon, blue is nitrogen, and red is oxygen.
Background of Atorvastatin
Atorvastatin Calcium is used to lower cholesterol and help with a low-fat diet, raise good cholesterol levels in your blood. Atorvastatin Calcium may also be used on children, from the age of 10 to 17, who have a cholesterol problem. Atorvastatin Calcium is not a cure for high cholesterol, but may help to control it. Atorvastatin Calcium can also be used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, blood vessel blockage, or chest pain caused by angina. Atorvastatin Calcium is also used to reduce the risk of hospitalization for congestive heart failure. (drugstore,2012)
What is in Atorvastatin?
According to University of Texas “Hydrogen bonds have directionality in that the donor and acceptor groups must be oriented appropriately with respect to each other for a hydrogen bond to form. Important hydrogen bond donor groups in biological molecules include the –OH groups of proteins and carbohydrates. Important hydrogen bond acceptor groups are any N or O atom with a lone pair such the oxygen atom of a carbonyl group(proteins, nucleic acids) and the oxygen atom of a hydroxyl group (proteins and carbohydrates)(Iverson,2012)
