Biological Supramolecular Chemistry

Biological Supramolecular Chemistry Is A Rapidly Expanding Field Of Research Focused On The Intimate Relationships Between Biological Systems And The Physical And Chemical Behavior Of Their Components At The Molecular And Supramolecular Level. It Seeks To Understand The Complex Interplay Between The Various Molecules In The Cell, With The Aim Of Developing New And Innovative Treatments For Disease. Biological Supramolecular Chemistry Is Concerned Not Only With The Chemistry Of The Proteins, Nucleic Acids And Other Macromolecules That Make Up A Cell, But Also With The Chemistry Of The Environment In Which These Molecules Interact. The Elegant Molecular Dances Of Nucleic Acids, Proteins, Enzymes And Cell Membranes Have Been Of Interest To Chemists For Centuries, And The Systematic Study Of These Associations To Elucidate The “Rules Of Engagement” Is The Foundation Of Biological Supramolecular Chemistry. Supramolecular Architecture And Molecular Recognition Principles Form The Basis Of Biological Supramolecular Chemistry, And The Driving Force Behind Such Interactions Is Usually Something Called A “Cofactor.” A Cofactor Is A Binding Partner That Modulates The Interaction Between Two Molecules Or Macromolecules. A Myriad Of Cofactors Activate And/Or Inhibit The Activity Of Proteins Within A Cell. Biological Supramolecular Chemistry Has The Potential To Provide Transformative Advances In Our Understanding Of Disease. Consequently, New And Improved Strategies For Developing Effective Therapies While Eliminating Unwanted Side Effects Are Emerging From Such Studies. For Example, Inhibition Of Gene Expression By Knocking Out Messenger RNA Is Now Used To Reduce Cholesterol Levels And Treat Certain Cancers. Moreover, The Use Of Peptides As Targeted Drug Delivery Systems Has Improved The Efficacy And Toxicity Profile Of Drugs. By Designing Designer Molecules That Facilitate Interconnections Between Macromolecules, Biological Supramolecular Chemistry Has Created Potential Treatments For Many Other Conditions, Including Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes And Neurological Disorders.