Entry requirements

120 credits with 30 credits chemistry or corresponding

Learning outcomes

The overriding the aim of this course is to provide basic knowledge in the interface between chemistry, physics and biology on the nanostructural level with a focus on biotechnological usage. The student should be able to on completion of the course:

• account for interaction of biomolecules with surfaces of different chemical and physical species.
• account for production of some various types of nanostructured materials.
• account for existing methodology for the surface characterisation and surface modification
• suggest methods for selective immobilisation of biomolecules on surfaces and second carriers, and have a well based understanding of the carrier's influence on the activity of the biomolecule.
• account for the principles of mass spectrometric characterisation of surfaces.
• illustrate application areas where selective surfaces can be used together with mass spectrometric detection for qualitative and quantitative analysis of biomolecules.
• outline design of enzyme reactors based on nanostructured materials.
• make a risk assessment of a nanobiotechnological project.
• describe how one can make inorganic replicas of biological materials and how one can make molecular prints in polymer matrices.
• suggest methods for production of, and give examples of applications for, lipid and polymer nanoparticles.

Content

Examples on, and production of, various types of nanostructured materials with usage and potential within biotechnology. Using biomaterials and biomolecules as bases for inorganic structures. Introduction to surface physics and biomaterials. Methods for derivatisation and characterisation of surfaces and other carrying structures. Theory and methods for studies of the interaction with surfaces and fibres of biomolecules. Applications within bioseparation, diagnostics, the drug delivery and bioimplants. Theory for how lipid/polymer nanoparticles can be utilised as model membranes and for formulation/administration of drugs. Molecular prints of biomolecules. Inorganic replicas of biological materials. Enzyme reactors based on nanostructured materials. During the course opportunities are given for spoken and written reports.

Instruction

Lectures, seminars, laboratory sessions, demonstration labs.

Assessment

Written examination is organised during the course and/or at the end of the course. Written examination correspond 6 credits, laboratory sessions and seminar exercises correspond 4 credits. The final grade corresponds to a joining of the written examination and the compulsory parts.