Ateneo - UPO

The course is divided into two modules. The first part of Module 1 includes an introductory section to review basic molecular biology principles, with specific insights into the structure and reactivity of biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, and proteins). The second part will illustrate the main methods for the rational design and development of biotechnological tools of pharmacological interest, with a specific focus on the principles of rational protein engineering. In this part of the course, relevant scientific publications representing the main applications in the pharmaceutical biotechnology field will be presented and discussed. Module 2 will cover the basic principles of the mechanisms of action of selected biotechnological drugs, highlighting the molecular details underlying their pharmacological activity. In particular, monoclonal antibodies, oligonucleotides, and next-generation vaccines will be addressed.

Elisabetta Vegeto, Adriana Maggi, Paola Minghetti, Farmaci biotecnologici F. Amaldi, P. Benedetti, G. Pesole, P. Plevani, Biologia Molecolare

The course aims to provide students with advanced knowledge of the principles, methodologies, and applications of biotechnology in the pharmaceutical field. Specifically, the course aims to: -Consolidate basic knowledge of molecular biology, with particular attention to the structure and reactivity of biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, proteins). -Provide theoretical and practical tools to understand strategies for the rational design and development of molecules and biotechnological tools of pharmacological interest. -Deepen the principles of protein engineering, focusing on rational applications to modulate and optimize the biological activity of proteins. -Illustrate the mechanism of action of biotechnological drugs, highlighting the molecular details underlying their pharmacological activity. -Provide a critical overview of the main classes of biotechnological drugs currently in use or under development, such as monoclonal antibodies, therapeutic oligonucleotides, and vaccines. At the end of the course, students will be able to: -Describe the structure and chemical-physical properties of biological macromolecules. -Explain the principles of protein engineering and the main biotechnological technologies applied to drugs. -Analyze the mechanisms of action of biotechnological drugs, correlating structure and function. -Understand and critically discuss scientific publications related to the development of biotechnological drugs and their therapeutic applications.

Basic knowledge of biology, organic chemistry, physics, and biochemistry.

The course integrates different teaching methods to promote active learning and critical skills development. Lectures will be used to systematically present theoretical content, supported by multimedia presentations and updated materials from international scientific literature. Lectures will be complemented by classroom exercises to apply theoretical concepts through guided problem-solving, case study discussions, and simulations of rational design and protein engineering strategies. The course will also include the presentation and discussion of scientific publications by students and peer-to-peer learning activities.

See the description of the general course.

See the description of the general course.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY Proteins Nucleic acids Protein–nucleic acids interactions PHARMACEUTICAL BIOTECHNOLOGIES Recombinant DNA technology: principles and applications Genetic engineering Proteins as drugs: biochemical properties relevant to therapeutic efficacy MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES AND ANTIBODY-DERIVED PRODUCTS Antibody structure Biotechnological synthesis of antibodies OLIGONUCLEOTIDES AS DRUGS Mechanism of action of oligonucleotides Oligonucleotide design NEXT-GENERATION VACCINES

KNOWLEDGE Describe in detail the structure and reactivity of biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, proteins). Understand the theoretical principles underlying the main biotechnological approaches applied to drug development. Explain the mechanisms of action of biotechnological drugs, with particular reference to monoclonal antibodies, therapeutic oligonucleotides, and vaccines. Understand the principles of rational protein engineering and its pharmacological applications. SKILLS Apply theoretical knowledge to interpret and discuss case studies related to rational design strategies and the development of biotechnological drugs. Critically analyze scientific articles, identifying their rationale, methods, results, and limitations. Correlate the structure, chemical-physical properties, and function of biological macromolecules to pharmacological intervention strategies. COMPETENCES Communicate complex concepts related to pharmaceutical biotechnology clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Work in groups, interacting proactively during peer-to-peer learning activities and scientific paper presentations. Develop autonomy in studying and critically consulting scientific literature to continuously update knowledge on new applications of biotechnology in the pharmaceutical field.