Cellular and Molecular Engineering

Computational and Systems Biology

Through an experimental and computational research approach that combines biophysics, bioinformatics, biochemistry and molecular dynamics, our academics aim to address studies related to the structure, function and evolution of proteins and genetic systems.

On the one hand, their eyes are focused on the analysis of metamorphic proteins and the search for results that will allow them to generate biomedical and bioengineering applications, such as the development of new antibacterials and treatments against diseases caused by prions. Other research is aimed at the discovery of enzymes in Chilean extremophiles, the optimization of enzyme selectivity and specificity, and the synthesis of intermediate molecules of industrial interest by means of biocatalytic processes.

The approach to computational and mathematical research, coupled with recombinant DNA tools from synthetic biology, has also been the inclination of IIBM researchers studying and trying to develop new genetic systems. They focus on two main lines: dynamic systems and multicellular coordination. A special focus has also been placed on the study of biofilms, the production of polymeric extracellular substances (EPS) and cell-cell interaction processes.