Learning objectives
This course introduces the basic concepts for the understanding of the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and organic molecules. The basic concepts are described, which are at the basis of the quantum-mechanical properties of molecular systems that allow to describe the interaction between radiation and matter. The events following absorption of a photon by a molecule are described. Examples of photoinduced processes with pharmacological significance are given.
Prerequisites
Electromagnetism, general chemistry
Course unit content
Electromagnetic waves and photons
Energy levels in organic molecules and relation with rotational and vbrational motions
Absorption of electromagnetic radiation
Planck equation
Spin, singlet and triplet states, selection rules
Jablonski diagram
Radiative relaxations: fluorescence and phosphorescence
Non radiative relaxations
Photochemical processes
Reaction rate and quantum yield
Photosensitivity and action spectrum
Photosensitized production of singlet oxygen
Photosensitizers
Photodynamic therapy of tumors
Examples: porphyrins, phtalocyanines, ALA
Effectso f UV radiation on cellular components: proteins and DNA
Natural and synthetic photoprotecting agents
Fotoprotettori naturali (melanina) e artificiali (creme solari)
Definition of MED and SPF.
Vitamin D3 synthesis
Heme metabolism. Phototherapy in neonatal jaundice
Full programme
Electromagnetic waves and photons
Energy levels in organic molecules and relation with rotational and vbrational motions
Absorption of electromagnetic radiation
Planck equation
Spin, singlet and triplet states, selection rules
Jablonski diagram
Radiative relaxations: fluorescence and phosphorescence
Non radiative relaxations
Photochemical processes
Reaction rate and quantum yield
Photosensitivity and action spectrum
Photosensitized production of singlet oxygen
Photosensitizers
Photodynamic therapy of tumors
Examples: porphyrins, phtalocyanines, ALA
Effectso f UV radiation on cellular components: proteins and DNA
Natural and synthetic photoprotecting agents
Fotoprotettori naturali (melanina) e artificiali (creme solari)
Definition of MED and SPF.
Vitamin D3 synthesis
Heme metabolism. Phototherapy in neonatal jaundice
Bibliography
Principles of Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Third Edition, Joseph R. Lakowicz, Springer
Original research papers and reviews published on scientific journals
Teaching methods
The course consists in a series of lectures.
Assessment methods and criteria
Written exam
Other information
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