Structure and functions of biomolecules

The aim of the course is an in-depth discussion of the structure-activity relationships of the main classes of biological molecules. Strategies for synthesis, isolation and structural characterization of biomolecules will be treated. Potential applications in biotechnology will also be discussed, particularly those more closely related to the concept of bioeconomy.

The student will be able to critically discuss the structure-activity relationships of the molecular classes presented in the course. He will also acquire knowledge and skills on the most important extraction, preparation/purification and structural characterization methodologies. Finally, the student will be able to use the main experimental and computational methodologies for understanding the mechanisms of macromolecule-ligand interaction.