Organic Chemistry and NMR Spectroscopy for Protein Research

Proteins are key players in all cellular processes and their correct (normal) function is prerequisite for a healthy cell. The umpteen roles of proteins include, among others, the regulation of gene expression, the transport of molecules and ions across cell membranes, and the catalysis of reactions (which otherwise would be too slow). Once one or more proteins start to behave abnormally, uncontrolled events occur in the cells, which dramatically raises the risk of developing pathologies
Protein modifications (spontaneous or enzyme-mediated) are often dysregulated in diseases. The deep understanding of the mode of action of proteins under healthy and pathological conditions is necessary for the development of modern and efficient strategies in the diagnosis and therapy of diseases. In particular, (bio)organic chemistry and NMR spectroscopy largely contribute to this “mission” by reproducing, mimicking, manipulating target biomolecules, elucidating their structure, and providing artificial modulators of their function.