lipidomics), elucidate the molecular structure of novel bioactive molecules, investigate the biological properties (cellular and enzymatic assays, ex vivo models, animal models) and mode of action of bioactive compounds, synthesis and functionalization of organic molecules, investigation of both mechanisms and kinetics of reactions of industrial relevance. Concerning the pharmaceutical field, the activities involving the analysis, synthesis and biological evaluation of bioactive small molecules are pivotal to support the investigation of lead compounds and preclinical assessment of lipids, natural products and biomarkers for oncology, immunology and neurosciences. In the biotechnology field, the institute pursues research activities into the development and implementation of process mediated by isolated or whole-cells extremophile enzymes and whole-cells for biological CO₂ mitigation and hydrogen production, food ingredients production and functional and/or bioactive compounds starting from natural sources, biomass and agro-industrial waste.

Moreover, the institute holds a unique collection of both marine biological samples and cultivable microorganisms which are pools of natural compounds useful to cover chemical biology studies and high-throughput screening projects. Based on innovative approaches on novel modes of action and biological targets, the institute could also be able to provide a suitable support in the use of those libraries when the applications are not linked to the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, nutracetics and food fields. A fundamental key strength is our discovery platform for bioactive natural products, which includes an ever-evolving collection of small molecules. When these compounds do not meet all the criteria to be considered New Chemical Entities (NCEs), the chemical properties are iteratively improved by appropriate structural modifications. The Hit-to-tool post-screening optimization process is carried out through a massive use of chemical synthesis.