Metalli e sistemi biologici: target, interazioni e implicazioni biomediche

Metal-protein interactions play a crucial role in a wide range of biological and pathological processes. Understanding the molecular basis of these interactions and their implications in human physiology and pathology is of fundamental importance for the development of new therapeutic strategies and for the prevention of diseases related to the presence and accumulation of metals. Through an in-depth analysis of metal ion-protein interactions, this thesis aims to shed new light on such complex phenomena and contribute to our understanding of their interactions and implications for human health. The research presented here aims to help fill some of the gaps in our knowledge of metal-protein interactions, using a combination of advanced experimental techniques and molecular modeling to examine these interactions in a variety of biological and pathological contexts. In particular, this research focuses on: - interactions between metal ions and chelating molecules derived from kojic acid; - interactions between the metal ions Zn2+, Mn2+, Fe2+ and bacterial iron-transport proteins, particularly the transmembrane protein FeoB; - interaction between the human Angiotensin Convertin Enzyme 2 (hereafter ACE2) receptor and Cu2+ and Zn2+ metal ions, with the aim of assessing whether these interactions may affect the normal functioning of the ACE2 receptor and ultimately impact human physiology in the context of covid-19-related diseases. Through this in-depth study of metal-protein ion interactions, the thesis aims to provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these mechanisms and their implications in human physiology and pathology.