70385 - Genomics-Based Strategies in the Discovery of Novel Drug Targets

Learning outcomes

The course is focused on the international summer school Chemical and genomics strategies in the discovery of novel drug targets.

Course contents

Research and validation of putative targets is a priority in modern drug discovery. Joining chemical, genomics and proteomics represents a powerful approach in this field. Unlike the traditional target-based screens on a predetermined protein target, the study of genes through small-molecule interference aims to probe the entire molecular signaling pathway of numerous drug-sensitive pathways to validate potential drug leads. Disease can be caused by an imbalance in molecular signaling pathways; therefore, chemicals that modify or rebalance these pathways should have a therapeutic potential. The development of reliable mechanisms for target identification is actually a priority. Within this context, a bioinformatics approach that combines biological concepts with computer tools is mainly used to discover, select and prioritize targets. The ‘target' is a broad concept ranging from molecular entities (such as genes, proteins and miRNAs) to biological phenomena (such as molecular functions, pathways and phenotypes). Disease relevant molecular, cellular and organism models employed in the genomics and proteomics research area represent invaluable tools to investigate small-molecules with any potential target's function and to understand their mechanism(s) of action. The school is dedicated to the field of novel chemical, genomics and proteomics approaches in drug discovery.

Readings/Bibliography

Written material given during the lessons

Teaching methods

lessons and laboratory course

Assessment methods

The exam consists in a detailed written report of 2 hours. In the written test it is not allowed to consult books, notes and computer media. The student should answer to 10 open questions on the following topics: chemogenomics; genomics in drug discovery; epigentics; post-trasductional protein modifications; analysis of gene-reporter systems; transcription factors and gene expression; SiRNA. The exam is passed if the student has reached a minimum score of 18/30.

Teaching tools

oral lessons and a practical laboratory course.

Office hours

See the website of Santi Mario Spampinato