Structural Biochemistry

This course offers an in-depth study of the structural biochemistry of biomolecules, particularly proteins and nucleic acids.

The basic concepts and nomenclature used for analyzing 3D protein structures are briefly reviewed (Ramachandran diagram, structural motifs and domains, folding, family, superfamily, etc.). These concepts are supplemented by a study of the stability and dynamics of biomolecules.

The structural classification of proteins is detailed according to the four main types of folding. Structure-function relationships are illustrated using examples of proteins. The specific characteristics of membrane protein structures (integral proteins, membrane-bound proteins) are discussed.

The main tools for modeling and predicting secondary and tertiary structures are presented.

The different structures and functions of nucleic acids are studied. Protein-nucleic acid complexes are described from a structural point of view (main recognition motifs, etc.) and the concepts of recognition specificity are detailed.

This teaching is illustrated in tutorials. These tutorials consist of familiarizing students with the main databases used in structural biology, as well as with the PyMol software for analyzing 3D structures.

This course provides an understanding of biological issues at the molecular level. Students will learn to describe and analyze all biomolecule structures and will be able to identify the molecular determinants essential to interactions between biomolecules and understand their importance. They will be able to explore structure-function relationships.

At the end of this course, students should be able to study all types of biomolecules in 3D using the software of their choice. They should be able to provide precise structural information, such as the distance between a protein and a ligand, as well as spatial organization.

HAV201V, HAV204V