Project title

Human Health: Molecular Interventions and Regulation Mechanisms.

Scientific Coordinator's name:

Rodrigo F. M. de Almeida

Scientific Coordinator's e-mail:

rodrigo.almeida@fc.ul.pt

Principal R&D Unit:

Centro de Química e Bioquímica (CQB)

Other R&D Units involved in the project:

Other R&D units involved in the project

Project keyword(s)

phytochemicals, biophysical methods, medicinal chemistry, biological chemistry

Short abstract and comments

Phytochemicals are known to exert several health benefits namely through antioxidant activity. A mechanism for the action of phytochemicals may be found at the level of the cell membranes. In order to gain a detailed understanding about phytochemicals action and be able to model the ability of a given phytochemical compound to fine tune cell protection mechanisms, the following aspects are being studied: (i) interaction of phytochemical compounds with lipid membranes; (ii) phytochemicals permeation through the lipid membranes; (iii) interaction of phytochemicals with specific membrane lipids and proteins; (iv) general effects of phytochemicals on human cells.

Potential uses/indications

we intend to fully explore the application of phytochemicals in the prevention/treatment of multifactorial and age-related diseases