OVERVIEW

This class is targeted to students that have already  learned Biochemistry in the preceding three year course of Biology. Here we will analyze up-to-date molecular aspects of the  relationship between the structures of different proteins  and their functional roles. Particularly, we will consider how the altered functions of some proteins contribute to the onset or progression of disorders characterized by an early or delayed occurrence in humans.

AIMS AND CONTENT

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

This class concerns an up-to-date description of the mechanisms that regulate the connections between structure and function of different human polypeptides. It will be considered the link between the several processes involved in the control of protein structure and the problem of their dysregulation in human pathologies. We will discuss how specific structural signatures on different proteins  can regulate their post-transductional modifications, domains organization, acquirement of the native conformation, interaction with molecular partners, localization into specific sub-cellular compartments,  extra-cellular release, half-life.  At the end of the class, besides an oral examination to establish if correct  information is acquired,  each student has the opportunity to select and discuss an  issue.  At this respect, he can utilize a recent scientific paper, among several of them proposed by the teacher, pertaining to a topic of the syllabus. This class should stimulate the appeal of the student for Biochemistry as a rapidly evolving discipline and an important learning outcome is to encourage an exciting approach to the scientific research. 

PREREQUISITES

Prerequisites to follow this class are based on the possibility to understand the scientific terms used to deal the various issues, particularly exploiting the knowledges acquired during the  preceding three years course of Biology. It is particularly important that the student is informed about the different 1) human metabolisms included the mechanisms for their enzymatic regulation, 2) levels of structural organization of monomeric and multimeric proteins, 3)  functional groups of the side chains present in the twenty amino acids of proteins and their specific reactivity and transformation in the biological context, 4) organization intracellular compartments having specific metabolic specialization, 5) operativity of passive and active transports of molecules and ions through the  biological membranes. 

TEACHING METHODS

Teaching is performed by classroom-taught lessons with the aid of slides that are available to the students on  the  Aulaweb.

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

General aspects of the links among the structure, functions, compartmentation, traffic and turnover of proteins.

Types and outcomes of reversible e irreversible post-transductional modifications  of proteins, human pathologies related to errors in post-translational processes.

Protein domains: modular structures and formation of protein complexes. The CATH data base.

Mechanisms for the acquirement of higher structural levels by globular proteins and collagen. Folding and misfolding of proteins, the molecular chaperones. Activity of the protein disulfide isomerase, cyclofilins, heat shock proteins, transglutaminase. Human pathologies associated with specific protein misfolding.

Signals involved in the cellular sorting of proteins: molecular bases for import and export in the endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, mitochondria, peroxisomes, nucleus, lysosomes.Patological effects  of errors in the protein sorting.

Signal sequences on organular proteins: their effects on endocytosis, secretion, non secretory exports and damages related to their deficit.  Coated vesicles,  GTP binding proteins and SNARE.

Intra and extracellular proteolysis: ubiquitin and calcium-dependent systems, caspases  and metallo proteases. Lysosomal protein degradation and lysosomal storage diseases.

Short and long term responses to insulin and their regulation. The Notch system and the concept of receiver and sender cells.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Alberts et al.-Molecular Biology of the cell-  Fifth edition- Zanichelli Ed. and recently reviews published on relevant topics 

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

MONICA AVERNA (President)

BIANCA SPARATORE (President)

LESSONS

Class schedule

BIOCHEMISTRY OF CELL SIGNALING

EXAMS

EXAM DESCRIPTION

The oral exam includes a first question proposed by a teacher. The answer of the student will be discussed on the relevant images projected during the lessons. A second topic will be selected by the student both from the syllabus or from a recent scientific review that the student will present and discuss. 

ASSESSMENT METHODS

To assess the degree of knowledge that the students have acquired about the topics contained in the syllabus of this class, the committee will consider positive the ability to analyze and to integrate different aspects of the question proposed. Indeed it is discouraged any passive memorization or the reading of information present in the image that is under discussion. On the other hand it will be considered positive a comprehensive understanding of the bases underlying particular aspects of a phenomenon. 

Exam schedule