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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Introduction to the microsymposium and on the modulation of thermodynamic parameters relative to biomolecule-solvent interactions

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Abstract As a result of introducing a macromolecule in a solvent, changes in the structures of both solute and solvent are generally found. In this specific meaning we refer here to ‘relaxation phenomena’. The discussion will either concern or keep in a view the case of biomolecules and to which extent these changes are involved in their thermodynamic stability or functional structure: Dr. Ben-Naim will discuss hydrophobic interactions and structural changes in the solvent; Dr. Wen will focus on thermodynamic properties of aqueous solutions on hydrophobic solutes; Dr. Cordone, Dr. Fornili and myself shall discuss results of experiments concerning solutes on several types(proteins, polynucleotides, polysaccharides, and small planar molecules, useful as model systems for studying stacking interactions). These have in common the strategy of modulating the solvent by (DH) isotopic substitution, or by the addition of organic co-solvents, and arriving at corresponding modulations of the relevant thermodynamic parameters, or of biomolecular functions. Net structural differences are reached through kinetics, which link time and temperature variables and are therefore capable of adding pertinent information. If for water these kinetics are too rapid, some transitions from one to another biomolecular conformation or states of aggregation (which can in turn be either functional or not) can be profitably followed up. Further, and under favorable circumstances, the path can be reversed so as to provide hints on the timescale of processes involving the solvent.