Ateneo - UPO

The course aims to provide students with fundamental knowledge in computer simulation of chemical entities such as proteins and molecules. Additionally, it aims to provide essential knowledge of chemical and physical methods applicable to the study of biotechnological systems, particularly in the pharmaceutical field. The course also offers a theoretical and practical introduction to basic concepts of bioinformatics and systems biology commonly used in biomedical research, with a specific focus on studying the effects and characteristics of drugs using omics approaches (pharmacogenomics). Moreover, it introduces the principles of analytical techniques used in omics, specifically in proteomics and metabolomics. Performance indices of an analytical method (LOD, LOQ, accuracy and precision, robustness, etc.) will be introduced. The principles of liquid and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry instruments and their applications in proteomics and metabolomics will be discussed. The differences between targeted and untargeted approaches and strategies for selecting the most suitable analytical approach for practical problems will be illustrated. Data handling will also be briefly addressed. Finally, students will be guided in conducting literature research and solving a case study proposed by the instructor.

Vedere le schede dei singoli moduli.

Knowledge: The course aims to provide students with fundamental knowledge of computer simulation methods for chemical and biological systems. This includes computational techniques for energy and molecular geometry calculations, as well as conformational analysis of small molecules and macromolecules.
Application of Knowledge: Students will develop the ability to apply their knowledge to solve chemical and biological problems presented during the course. They will also gain proficiency in using basic modeling software to predict protein structures and drug-receptor interactions.
Knowledge and Understanding: The course focuses on developing a solid understanding of the physicochemical properties underlying the methods used in biotechnological, biological, and pharmaceutical systems. Students will learn to evaluate and select appropriate chemical and physical methods for studying specific systems. They will also acquire communication skills, including the use of relevant vocabulary. Additionally, they will learn to critically analyze literature and case studies.

Basic knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, general and inorganic chemistry, mathematics and physics.

See the description of the individual modules.

See the description of the individual modules.

The exam will be about the content of the modules. The final grade will be decided by the exam commission.

See the description of the individual modules.

At the end of the course, students will have acquired the fundamental aspects necessary for accurately simulating chemical and biological structures.
Upon completion of the course, students will have gained knowledge of the main chemical and physical methods applicable to the study of biotechnological and pharmaceutical systems. They will be able to evaluate their potential and applicability.
Students will have knowledge of basic bioinformatics tools for studying the human genome, particularly in the biomedical and pharmacogenomic fields. They will be able to autonomously and critically understand the content of research articles related to bioinformatics and systems biology.
Knowledge and Understanding: understanding the theoretical and practical foundations of modern omics analysis techniques (liquid and gas chromatography, mass spectrometry), knowledge of sample pre-treatment and analysis methods in omics.
Application of Knowledge and Understanding: being able to compare different analytical techniques, choosing the best method for solving a case study.
Communication Skills: acquiring and using appropriate vocabulary related to the topics covered in the course, organizing and presenting a case study through a PowerPoint presentation.
Judgment and Autonomy: the ability to choose among different techniques for the same purpose.