The course focuses on the study of different families of natural organic substances derived from the acetate, shikimate and mevalonate pathway. Of each of these, structural aspects, properties, biological activities and applications in agronomy, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals are explored. Among the classes of secondary metabolites, the phenolic substances and, among the various biological activities, the antioxidant activity are particularly explored. The techniques of extraction, purification and structural characterization of natural substances are also studied. Seminars given by colleagues from outside the University of Tuscia on topics relevant to the program are scheduled during the course. Exercises and/or teaching visits are, in addition, planned.

Medicinal Natural Products. Paul M Dewick, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd