Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, the Journal of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, has published a Special Issue: Biochemistry of Protein‐Protein and Protein‐Lipid Interactions: Applications to Biotechnology guest edited by Enrico Dainese, Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Gianfranco Gilardi (Editor-in-Chief), Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Torino, and Mauro Maccarone, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome.
In their Editorial, the Guest Editors write, “First of all, we would like to dedicate this special issue to Prof. Alessandro Finazzi-Agrò, who retired in 2011. As an internationally recognized biochemist and former Rector of “Tor Vergata” University of Rome (Italy), he gave an invaluable support to the diffusion of the Italian biochemical research, inspiring many colleagues all over the world. His introductory historical note “PROTE-INS” is yet another contribution by this brilliant scientist in the fascinating field of proteins.”
In this opinion article “PROTE-INS”, Dr. Finazzi-Agrò emphasizes the importance of this Special Issue. He writes, “As stated in several classic biochemistry textbooks, for example, in West et al., “the term protein is derived from the Greek word proteios meaning primary or holding first place” [West et al., 1966. McMillan, New York]. No doubt that this etymology correctly underlines the fundamental roles of proteins in every living organism. It has been universally recognized that this name, given as far as 1838 to polymers of amino acids by the famous Swedish Chemist J. J. Berzelius, appears to be well suited.”
This special issue puts together 6 original research articles, state-of-the-art reviews and a mini-review on the latest in the study of the mechanisms and impact of protein–protein and protein–ligand interactions, describing promising technical approaches that add to the challenge of translational research from experimental model systems.
