For the general public, “Inspired by nature” normally refers to intangible aspects related to the creative capacity of people, in general, and writers or artists in particular. In the scientific world, a better understanding of the physiological and pathological processes at the molecular level increased the possibility of interfering within these processes through molecules or systems inspired by nature counterparts. In fact, researchers can envisage suitable strategies to incorporate key elements of the natural molecule into tangible less-natural or non-natural mimics (Biomimetics).

In this special issue, we are interested in highlighting emerging opportunities in the field of drug discovery & development through biomimetics, in its broadest sense. These will include recent examples of, but not limited to, non-proteinogenic amino acid derivatives, peptidomimetics, glycomimetics, DNA mimics (PNAs), and naturally inspired probes for diagnoses or drug delivery systems, able to mimic the structure and/or function of biologically produced substances.

All approaches are welcome, from theoretical studies and bioinformatics to synthetic strategies, or biophysical measurements, or particular biological applications, or a combination of two or more of these interdisciplinary methodologies.

Included subjects:
Non-Proteinogenic Amino Acids
Peptidomimetics
Glycomimetics
PNAs (artificial oligunocleotide derivatives) and DNA mimetics
Biomimetics for Drug delivery and Diagnosis

Keywords: biomimetics; non-proteinogenic amino acids; peptidomimetics; glycomimetics; PNAs; diagnosis; drug delivery