Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences

The primary objectives of phytochemistry are traditionally linked to the identification of new natural substances from plants and the determination of their distribution throughout the plant kingdom, also in relation to the interactions between plants, plants and animals and between plants and pathogens (with reference to biological control of pests). Naturally, an important aim of phytochemical research is the discovery and development of substances with pharmacological activity. Because of these characteristics, phytochemistry is perhaps the most interdisciplinary of all the teachings to which it is linked. In fact, the chemistry of plants has an impact on all areas of botany and on many areas of chemistry, as well as implications that must take into account many complementary knowledge, concerning, among others, ecology, agriculture, physiology, ethnobotany, pharmacognosy , organic chemistry, biochemistry and chemotaxonomy. This interdisciplinary approach is the main force of phytochemistry, consequently, the course will focus on giving it particular prominence, allowing the student to relate these different aspects. The student will also be able to acquire extensive knowledge on the classification and the role played by secondary metabolites in plants and, above all, on their chemical nature and potential biological activity. Consequently, the course aims to introduce the criteria for a correct identification and classification of secondary metabolites, particularly for biologically active compounds of plant origin. At the same time the aspects related to the main biosynthetic pathways, to metabolic transformations and to the compartmentalization of these substances within plant organisms will be explored. The final objective to be achieved will therefore enable the student to know the main aspects of the study of the chemistry of medicinal plants with particular reference to extraction methods, biosynthesis, chemical characteristics and any structure-activity relationships of natural substances of plant origin. For the course prerequisites are not required, but it would be opportune for the student, in order to better understand the topics covered, a preliminary acquisition of wide basic knowledge, especially in the botanical, chemical and biological fields. The evaluation of the student study will be carried out mainly through a final oral exam, which will focus on all the topics of the program. The student will deepen what he learned during the lessons on the recommended texts, and above all on the didactic material that will be provided to them by the teacher.