A Long Journey into the Investigation of the Structure–Dynamics–Function Paradigm in Proteins through the Activities of the Palermo Biophysics Group

An overview of the biophysics activity at Department Physics and Chemistry Emilio Segrè University Palermo is given. For forty years, focus research has been on protein structure–dynamics–function paradigm, with aim understanding molecular basis relevant mechanisms key role solvent. At least three lines are identified; main results obtained in collaboration other groups Italy abroad presented. This review dedicated to memory Professors Massimo Ugo Palma, Maria Beatrice Palma Vittorelli, Lorenzo Cordone, which were founders School Biophysics. We all have been, directly or indirectly, their pupils; we miss enthusiasm for scientific research, deep physical insights, suggestions, strict but always constructive criticisms, and, most all, friendship. paper also Prof. Hans Frauenfelder, whose pioneering works nonexponential rebinding kinetics, substates, energy landscape inspired a large part our work field dynamics.