Areas of Interest
The Laboratory of Spectroscopy of Biomolecules has as objective the study of properties of molecules of biological interest. In the laboratory, it is sought to establish relationships between the structural and dynamic properties of macromolecules and bio-membranes with their functional performance.
Several molecules of biological interest are studied: for instance, nitric oxide, which participates in several biological processes such as blood pressure control, immune system responses and neurotransmission; its interaction with porphyrins and with hemoproteins, important in the regulation of the metabolism of nitric oxide in living beings. The lab also investigates complexes formed between several drugs and proteins with the objective of understanding the molecular mechanisms and possibility of encapsulation and controlled release.
Structural and dynamic properties of the major components of biological membranes, lipids and proteins are studied in the lab. Interactions between these components are investigated, given their importance for the performance of specific and selective functions. Functional drug effects are correlated with induced changes in the structure of enzymes and in the dynamics of the protein-lipid interaction.
The Laboratory acts in the training of human resources, including researchers and students from other Universities and Research Centers in the State of Rio de Janeiro, giving access to all the lab infrastructure.
Infrastructure
- Time – resolved spectrofluorimeter (IBH – Horiba – Jobin Yvon);
- Stationary spectrofluorimeter PTI – QM1;
- Spectrophotometer with detection by arrangement of diodes HP;
- Temperature controller for spectrofluorimeters;
- Hermle Z360K Refrigerated Centrifuge;
- Electronic balance. Cole-Parmer digital pH meter. Pump vacuum. Greenhouse;
- Ultrasound. Rotary evaporator. Containers of liquid nitrogen.