Ateneo - UPO

The Pharmaceutical Biotechnology module is divided into two parts. The first part includes an introductory levelling section, which will review the principles and basic concepts of molecular biology, with a specific focus on the structure and reactivity of biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA and proteins). The second part will be dedicated to illustrating 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 practical implications in the field of pharmaceutical biotechnology will be presented and discussed. Subsequently, the basic principles of the mechanism of action of certain biotechnological drugs will be addressed, highlighting the molecular details underlying their pharmacological activity. In particular, monoclonal antibodies, oligonucleotides and new-generation vaccines will be discussed. The second module will focus on the definition of biotechnological drugs, their preclinical and clinical development, and their application in pharmacotherapy.

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The course aims to provide students with advanced knowledge of the principles, methodologies and applications of biotechnology in the field of pharmacology. In particular, 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 the theoretical and practical tools to understand the strategies for the rational design and development of molecules and biotechnological tools of pharmacological interest. -Explore the principles of protein engineering, with a focus on rational applications for the modulation and optimisation of the biological activity of proteins. -Illustrate the mechanism of action of biotechnological drugs, highlighting the molecular details underlying 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 underlying protein engineering and the main biotechnological technologies applied to drugs. -Analyse the mechanism 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. In addition, the course aims to provide an understanding of the development, functioning and clinical application of biotechnological drugs. A comparative analysis with therapeutic strategies based on small chemical molecules will also be carried out.

Basic knowledge of biology, organic chemistry, physics, biochemistry and pharmacology, physiology and pathology.

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Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services- students-physical-or-learning-disabilities Students with disabilities, learning disabilities or special education needs, once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

The exam will consist of a single oral test. The final grade will be assigned by the examination committee. Depending on attendance, a pre-selection may be held to access the oral exam with a short multiple-choice written exam.

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KNOWLEDGE Describe in detail the structure and reactivity of biological macromolecules (DNA, RNA, proteins). Understand the theoretical principles underlying the main biotechnological technologies 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. Know the clinical application of biotechnological drugs with reference to the diseases that can be treated with such drugs. CAPABILITIES Apply theoretical knowledge to interpret and discuss case studies related to rational design strategies and the development of biotechnological drugs. Critically analyse scientific articles, identifying their rationale, methods, results and limitations. Link the structure, chemical-physical properties and function of biological macromolecules to pharmacological intervention strategies. SKILLS Communicate complex concepts related to pharmaceutical biotechnology clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing. Work in a team, interacting proactively during peer-to-peer learning activities and the presentation of scientific publications. Develop autonomy in the study and critical consultation of scientific literature, in order to keep up to date with new applications of biotechnology in the pharmaceutical sector.