The course objectives are to provide a comprehensive overview of the biochemistry and barrier functions of biological membranes, as well as an insight into the structure and function of biological transport proteins. Pharmacological and pharmaceutical aspects of biological membrane structure and function will be emphasized.

Studies on the biochemistry and the barrier function of biological membranes are in rapid progress. An understanding of the structural and dynamic functions of the membranes (e.g. plasma membranes and intercellular membranes in the stratum corneum) may add to a more rational design of drug substances with improved permeation characteristics or specific membrane effects. Furthermore, membrane carrier systems as well as transcytosis mechanisms are described as possible drug delivery systems.

Many drugs or drug adjuvants may interfere with membrane dynamics and subcellular localisation of enzyme systems. An example is the development of pharmacological inhibitors of the 5-lipoxygenase-activating protein, a protein which activates the leukotriene-generating 5-lipoxygenase by stimulating its translocation from the cytosol to a membrane compartment. The process of regulation of enzymes through their translocation from cytosolic to membranes or vice versa may be a new fruitful area and target for pharmacological research.

• Structure and function of biological membranes
• Physiological structures in the plasma membrane
• Active transport mechanisms in the plasma membrane
• Drug substances acting on biological membranes
• Strategies to improve transport of drugs across biological membranes
• Membrane lipids as precursers for bioactive molecules

The 6-day course will comprise approximately 28 lectures given by researchers active in the field. Lectures will be followed by group discussions.

The study material for the course will comprise review articles and/or original publications. Participants are required to send an abstract one week before course start. Furthermore, participants will be requested to write a short essay on one of the lecture topics.

There will be a an evaluation based on group discussion, oral presentation and a written essay.

A certificate will be conferred for satisfactory participation in the course.

19 to 26 November 2010.

4 ECTS credit points (European Credit Transfer System).

100 working hours (52 for preparation, 38 for course, and 10 for evaluation).

The course will be organized by the Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacotheray and the Department of Pharmaceutics and Analytical Chemistry at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Copenhagen. Course directors: Professor Harald S. Hansen and Associate Professor Birger Brodin Larsen.

Total course fee: DKK 11,500 (including lunch),

of which operating costs: DKK 2,600.

15 September 2010.

20 participants.

Applicants enrolled in the part-time master's program MIND may participate in the course.