Biotechnology : from biomolecules to biofabrication

This course introduces macromolecules and then their use in biomaterials and discusses the concept of biofabrication. Biofabrication covers assembling materials, cells, and biological building blocks into grafts for tissue engineering and in vitro models. Important techniques from biomaterials research and development are introduced.

The following topics will be discussed:
• Biological fundamentals: The chemical building blocks of life and the macromolecules. Focusing on the major macromolecules essential for life, e.g. proteins and carbohydrates will provide an understanding of their structure-function relationships, and their roles in maintaining cellular and organismal function.
• Basic enzymology and enzyme kinetics: including enzyme structure, mechanisms of action, and regulation. Additionally, enzyme kinetics will be introduced, enabling students to quantify enzyme activity and understand the factors that influence enzyme efficiency.
• An introduction to biofabrication of macromolecules: where macromolecules are manipulated to create functional biological systems. This topic will cover the principles of designing and assembling biological materials into complex structures.
• Design of biomaterials for biofabrication: focuses on the engineering and design principles behind biomaterials. Students will learn about the properties and selection of different biomaterials, including natural polymers (protein or polysaccharide based polymers), and their roles in creating biocompatible scaffolds.
• Macromolecules for biofabrication: This topic examines the use of specific macromolecules—such as proteins and polysaccharides in the fabrication of biomaterials. Students will explore how these biological macromolecules can be modified and utilized to create functional materials for use in tissue engineering, drug delivery, and other biomedical applications.

The students learn about the biomolecule characteristics involved in the materials-to-biology interface. Become familiar with the state-of-the-art progress in this field of biofabrication.
This course gives students hands-on experience with the tools required to fabricate new materials based on building block of life.
They will also apply their knowledge to a problem-based project, which will also help them to strengthen their ability to work independently.
External guest speakers will be also invited to share information on the link between academic research and industrial entrepreneurship.

Connaissances et compétences pré-requises ou co-requises

This class requires basic knowledge of biology, physics, chemistry, and materials science.

• This course is designed to be highly interactive, incorporating a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles. The content is delivered through a combination of lecture-based sessions, complemented by PowerPoint presentations, engaging short videos, and animations to illustrate key concepts. These lectures will be supplemented with small group discussions, to engage in in-depth discussions and apply the concepts learned.

  Topic-Specific Guest Sessions
  Throughout the course, we will invite 1-2 guest lecturers, either online or in-person, who are experts from both the scientific community and industry. As part of our exploration of core biological concepts such as macromolecules and the building blocks of life, we will host specialized guest lectures.

  One session will focus on the valorization of biomass, where we will explore the conversion of carbohydrates and proteins into products such as biodiesel and biochar. This session will cover the underlying scientific principles, such as the biochemical pathways involved, but will also provide a practical, real-world context by examining how these technologies are implemented in sustainable industries. The discussion will emphasize the importance of eco-friendly solutions in the energy sector and how biomass valorization contributes to circular economies.

  In another session, the focus is on the commercialization of biomass-derived products, specifically on the valorization of polysaccharide- and protein-rich biomass for biomedical applications. Exploring the development of innovative products such as skincare creams, hair treatments, and advanced materials for biomaterials engineering. Students will gain insight into the processes of product development and commercialization, learning how scientific research can be translated into marketable products within the biomedical industry.

  Group Projects and Presentations
  Collaboration between students is a key element of the course. Students will participate in group projects, toward presentations. These projects will allow students to choose certain topics related to the course content, encouraging them to research, develop their ideas, and present their insights. Groups of 3-4 students will choose from a list of topics provided at the start of the semester.

  Hands-On Practical Sessions
  In addition to theoretical learning, the course includes practical sessions where students will apply their knowledge in a hands-on environment. These sessions are designed to reinforce key concepts and provide practical skills.

Références, bibliographie et lectures recommandées

Comprehensive Biomaterials II ISBN 978-0-08-100692-4, available at the science library
slides are deposited online (Team folder of the class)
Lehinger principle of biochemistry, 5th edition, Nelson and Cox, W.H. Freeman publisher, ISBN 9781429208925
 

Support(s) de cours

• Université virtuelle

Contacts

Armin SHAVANDI
armin.shavandi@ulb.be
https://biomatter.ulb.be/
 

Campus

Solbosch

Méthode(s) d'évaluation

• Projet
• Présentation orale
• Travail de groupe

Projet

Présentation orale

Travail de groupe

1. Individual assessment:  Tests (100 points):  There will be 3-4 tests during the semester. The questions will emphasize high-level critical thinking skills and will challenge students to use their knowledge to answer the questions.
2. Group assessments: A.   Report preparation (60 points): Please see the guidelines on the Team folder of the class and the student platform (Canvas, UV).
                                      B.  Group presentations (40 points). An end-of-the-semester presentation per group. (format and instructions are detailed in the guideline)

Langue(s) d'évaluation

• anglais