Structural Biochemistry

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

The basic notions and nomenclature used for the analysis of 3D structures of proteins are briefly reviewed (Ramachandran diagram, structural motif and domain, folding, family, superfamily, etc......). These notions are completed by the study of the stability and dynamics of biomolecules.

The structural classification of proteins is detailed according to the 4 main folding types. Structure-function relationships are illustrated with examples of proteins. The specificities 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, ...) and the notions of recognition specificity are detailed.

This teaching is illustrated by tutorials. These works consist in getting familiar with the main databases used in structural biology as well as with the PyMol software for the analysis of 3D structures.

This course provides an understanding of biological problems at the molecular level. The student will be able to describe and analyze all the structures of biomolecules and will be able to identify the molecular determinants of interactions between biomolecules and understand their importance. He/she will be able to explore structure-function relationships.

At the end of this course, the student should be able to study all types of biomolecules in 3D using the software of his/her choice. They should be able to give precise structural information, for example the distance between a protein and a ligand as well as the spatial organization.

HAV201V, HAV204V