THREE-DIMENSIONAL MODELING

Course objectives

The teaching consists of two modules: "Structural Biology" and "Structural Bioinformatics", each with 3 CFU, for a total of 6 CFU. The training objectives were defined to provide students with a thorough and integrated knowledge of biological structures and bioinformatics tools used to analyse them, with particular emphasis on pharmaceutical applications. General objectives of the course: Interdisciplinary Competence: Contribute to the training of professionals who are able to integrate knowledge of biology and structural bioinformatics and apply this integrated knowledge in research and development of new drugs. Analytical and Critical Skills: Develop the ability to critically analyze molecular structures and biological interactions through experimental and computational approaches. This course aims, within the context of the entire Pharmaceutical Biotechnology course, to provide the specific knowledge needed to prepare students for the scientific and technological challenges in the field of pharmaceutical biotechnology, providing them with the tools they need to contribute effectively to research and development of new therapies. Specific objectives: Module 1: Structural Biology (3 ECTS) 1. Understanding the Structural Bases of Biological Macromolecules: • To know the structure and function of the main biological macromolecules (in particular proteins and nucleic acids). • Explore the molecular interactions and structural dynamics that affect biological function. 2. Structural Determination Techniques: • Understand the basics of major techniques used to determine macromolecular structure, including X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and electron microscopy (EM). • Understand the theoretical principles behind these techniques and how they are applied in structural research. 3. Applications in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology: • Analyze how knowledge of molecular structures can be used for drug development. • Examine case studies that illustrate the role of structural biology in the discovery and development of innovative drugs.

Channel 1
GIORGIO GIARDINA Lecturers' profile

Program - Frequency - Exams

Course program
Structure and function of biological macromolecules (1 CFU): • Chemical-physical properties of amino acids and nucleic acids • Levels of structure of proteins and nucleic acids • Principles of protein folding and stability • Relationship between structure and function of biological macromolecules Experimental techniques for determining the three-dimensional structure of biological macromolecules (2 CFU): • X-ray crystallography • NMR spectroscopy • Cryo-electron microscopy • In-depth studies, seminars
Prerequisites
physics of electromagnetic waves, amino acid chemistry
Books
Lessons Slides in PDF format + other material provided during the course. NOT COMPULSARY text book: Metodologie biochimiche e biomolecolari Strumenti e tecniche per il laboratorio del nuovo millennio autore: Mauro Maccarrone anno:2019 ISBN: 9788808520555
Frequency
Attendance is optional, but strongly recommended given the complex nature of the techniques being studied
Exam mode
Oral examination. Evaluation depends on correct answers but also on the ability to answer questions using scientifically precise language. The reasoning ability of the students is also evaluated.
Bibliography
Not available
Lesson mode
The course will mix traditional lectures and flipped classrooms flanked by ongoing questionnaires (non-evaluative and anonymous) to stimulate the attention and participation of the class. Practical computer exercises will then be carried out for an in-depth understanding of some of the techniques explained in the classroom.
  • Academic year2025/2026
  • CoursePharmaceutical Biotechnology
  • CurriculumSingle curriculum
  • Year1st year
  • Semester2nd semester
  • SSDBIO/10
  • CFU3