Stereochemistry: definitions and a note on nomenclature

The impact of stereochemistry in medicine is increasingly being felt with the realisation of the therapeutic potential offered by single enantiomers. Consequently, a basic comprehension of the terminology and nomenclature used in stereochemistry is becoming a requirement for many researchers and clinicians. The first aim of this article is to familiarise readers with some of the well-established terms used to define key principles in stereochemistry. The issue of nomenclature in stereochemistry can be confusing to the uninitiated. A search through the literature reveals a number of different designation systems, some of which may not be interchangeable or may be obsolete. The second aim of this article is, therefore, to clarify this issue. It is hoped that this article will assist the reader of this supplement, as well as facilitate the interpretation of both new and existing literature concerning enantiomeric drugs. Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.