Synthesis of Bioconjugates

Recommended Prerequisites

Not applicable.

Teaching Methods

The course will encompass theoretical lectures, T, that will present relevant topics. Selected exercises , TP, will be discussed to apply knowledge in the classroom. Along the semester the student will choose a topic to make a written/oral presentation based on research of literature. Topics will be presented to perform demonstration of laboratory work. The methods of synthesis of bioconjugate and its applications for medical purposes will be discussed with all students present. The seminars, S, intend to demonstrate the relevance of this course in professional life as medicinal chemists.

Learning Outcomes

The purpose of the curricular uint Synthesis Bioconjug ates is to help students acquire a solid background in organic synthesis applied to the transformation/functionalization/processing of biomolecules and their connection to drugs and potential markers for living systems. Aims to contribute to the formation of medicinal synthetic chemists, who wish to integrate pharmaceutical or biotechnology laboratories for research and innovation in synthesis. The course aims to not only empower the development of new methods of synthesis of biological active compounds but also in their connection to vehicles (biopolymers) that transports them to the desired target sites.

The student must develop :

Ability to analyze, synthesize and understand the principles of organic synthesis aplied to biomolecules, to understand the function of both the bioconjugate transport of active ingredients as in diagnosis.

Ability to solve problems within the area of synthesis of pharmaceuticals and biopolymers

Work Placement(s)

No

Syllabus

1 - Functional targets
Modern organic synthetic methods applied to chemical modifications of biomolecules based on principles of green chemistry. Concept of protective group in organic synthesis. Reactivity of the main functional groups of biological molecules. Chemical transformations of amino acids, peptides, proteins sugars, polysaccharides and lipids.
2 - Bioconjugate reagents
Main reagents used in the preparation of bioconjugate compounds. Cross-linking agents. Agents for preparing bioconjugate dendrimer type compounds and nanoparticles. PEG reagents.
3 - Bioconjugate compounds- synthesis and applications
Selected examples of synthesis of some bioconjugate molecules. Synthesis and modification of biocompatible artificial polymers. Examples of coupling of fluorescent and radioactive molecules to biopolymers (fluorescent probes) for the preparation of imaging agents and/or radiotherapy. Discussion of their application in medicine, either as carriers or as probes.

Head Lecturer(s)

Maria Miguéns Pereira

Assessment Methods

Evaluation
Mini Tests: 10.0%
Resolution Problems: 10.0%
Synthesis work: 10.0%
Exam: 70.0%

Bibliography

1. "Bioconjugate Techniques”, G.T.Hermanson, Academic Press, Elsevier, Amsterdam, 2nd Ed., 2008.
2. "Bioconjugation protocols: strategies and methods”, C. M. Niemeye, Humana Press Inc., New Jersey, 2004.
Revistas e publicações especializadas
3. "Organic Chemistry" J. Claiden, N. Greeves, s. Warren, Oxford University Press, 2nd ed. 2012.
4. An Introduction to medicinal Chemistry, G. L. Patrick,Oxford University Press, 4th ed. 2009