Bio-PhysNano – Biophysics and Nanosystems Group

Margarida Godinho

The main goal of the BioPhysics and Nanosystems Group is to understand and to improve the characterization of biosystems by studying them as physical systems, and to develop adequate instrumentation and theoretical tools.

The group is organized in 2 sub-groups :

* MagNano (Magnetism & Nanosystems) is a team with a large experience in magnetism, electronic/atomic configuration studies and in the development of nanotechnology methods and techniques, recently focused on biological systems and applications

* PBS (Physics of Biological Systems) was created in 2008 as the first FCT research group in physics of biological systems, with protein physics as its major focus. On-going research includes other topics in complex systems, using analytic and computational methods rooted in statistical or quantum physics

Each team has independent scientific aims using the approach of physics in different ways to tackle relevant issues and innovative applications in biology and in health. The MagNano team develops experimental/theoretical research centred in the study of electronic properties of nanostructured systems, and nanoscale experiments using atomic force microscopy related techniques. The PBS team develops coarse-graining and computational methods for theoretical analysis that provide a unique contribution to the understanding of biological systems.

Bio-PhysNano is the core group of the BioPhys thematic line, but its researchers are involved in all other thematic lines either through joint projects or sharing of facilities.

Team

Group Leader: Margarida Godinho mmgodinho@fc.ul.pt

Other integrated members: Margarida Pires | Thomas Gasche | António Casaca | M. Estrela Jorge | Bernardo Cardoso

Post- Docs: Ana Carapeto | Jules Morand

PhD Students: Rui Loureiro (BioSYS) | João Pedro Santos (BioSYS – with BTR) | Miguel Vitorino (DAEPHYS) | Rodrigo Antunes

MSc Students: Arthur Vieira (Physics Engineering) | Joao Especial (Physics) | Elsa Teixeira (Physics) | Gabriel Martins (Chemistry)

Recent Publications

BioISI Digest | Grapevine-Associated Lipid Signalling Is Specifically Activated in an Rpv3 Background in Response to an Aggressive P. viticola Pathovar

A recent paper, first-authored by Gonçalo Laureano and headed by Andreia Figueiredo, presents a study using a Plasmopara viticola strain capable of supress the defence mechanisms conferred by a specific defence gene, the Rpv3, in grapevine. Read the BioISI Digest below to know more.

Bio[r]SciDE – Science Days and Ephemeris | International Women’s Day

On this International Women's Day, we are challenged to embrace equity. Ciência Viva recognizes several Portuguese women devoted to Science in a new edition of the book “Women in Science”, which includes the portrait of 101 female researchers in different scientific fields. Get to know below the testimonials of three BioISI female researchers who have been recognized in this book.

Carlos Farinha has been awarded by Emily’s Entourage to develop a novel approach to potentially treat Nonsense Mutations of Cystic Fibrosis

Carlos Farinha has been awarded 220 thousand USD by Emily’s Entourage to support research on restoring CFTR protein function in people with Cystic Fibrosis bearing nonsense mutations.

BioISI Digest | Rescue of Rare CFTR Trafficking Mutants Highlights a Structural Location-Dependent Pattern for Correction

A new paper, first-authored by Sónia Zacarias, coordinated by Carlos M. Farinha, with the collaboration of Bruno L. Victor, reveals the mode of action of different drugs on the deffective protein that causes Cystic Fibrosis, giving valuable insights to develop new therapies for individuals bearing rare variants . Know more on this BioISI Digest.

Bio[r]SciDE – Science Days and Ephemeris | Rare Disease Day

On this day Rare Disease Day, we want to tell you one chapter of the rare diseases ‘research story. BioISI scientists are the main characters, their research is the argument and the message they want to convey is that Science contributes to equitable access to diagnosis, treatment, health and social care and opportunities for people suffering from a rare disease.