MOLECULAR RECOGNITION AND DESIGN OF BIOACTIVE SYSTEMS FOR LIFE SCIENCES
Academic Year 2026/2027 - Teacher: GIUSEPPE TRUSSO SFRAZZETTOExpected Learning Outcomes
At the end of the module, students will be able to:
- describe the main non-covalent interactions involved in molecular recognition processes in biological systems;
- explain the role of structural complementarity in the formation of selective molecular complexes;
- understand the principles governing biomolecule–solid surface interactions and their relevance in the development of biofunctional materials;
- describe the architecture and operating principles of a biosensor, distinguishing between the recognition element and the transduction system;
- compare the operating principles of the main optical and electrochemical biosensors;
- critically evaluate the main analytical performance parameters of biosensors (selectivity, sensitivity and limit of detection) for biological applications.
Course Structure
The module is delivered through classroom lectures supported by multimedia presentations and discussion of application-oriented case studies selected from the recent scientific literature. Students are encouraged to actively participate through the analysis of examples related to the development and application of biosensors in biological, diagnostic and environmental fields. Teaching materials will be made available through the institutional e-learning platform.
Required Prerequisites
Students are expected to have a basic knowledge of general and organic chemistry.
Attendance of Lessons
The attendance requirement is governed by the regulations of the Bachelor's Degree Programme.
Detailed Course Content
Textbook Information
Course Planning
| Subjects | Text References | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Non-covalent interactions in biological systems: hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, van der Waals forces, π–π interactions, and cation–π interactions. | notes from lessons |
| 2 | Structural complementarity and the concept of molecular recognition. | notes from lessons |
| 3 | Biomolecule–solid surface interactions. | notes from lessons |
| 4 | Definition and architecture of a biosensor: recognition element and transduction system. | notes from lessons |
| 5 | Operating principles of optical and electrochemical biosensors. | notes from lessons |
| 6 | Key analytical performance parameters: selectivity, sensitivity, and limit of detection (LOD). | notes from lessons |
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
Learning outcomes will be assessed through a written examination consisting of multiple-choice and open-ended questions.
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises
- Describe the main non-covalent interactions involved in molecular recognition and discuss their role in biological systems.
- Explain the concept of structural complementarity using a biological example.
- Describe the architecture of a biosensor, explaining the roles of the recognition element and the transducer.
- Compare optical and electrochemical biosensors, highlighting their advantages and limitations.
- Define selectivity, sensitivity and limit of detection, discussing their importance in biosensor performance.
- Discuss the role of biomolecule–surface interactions in the development of biosensing devices.