The group's research is focused on the development of new synthetic methods for the preparation of heterocyclic compounds, that is compounds whose ring-based structures contain both carbon and elements such as nitrogen and oxygen. This work targets compounds that are difficult or inconvenient to make by existing methods.
A second aim of the group is to make use of these newly developed methods to prepare analogs of existing pharmaceutical agents, but with alternative core ring structures. In this way we hope to discover new structure/activity relationships that will facilitate drug discovery.
Another aspect of our research involves the interactions of drug molecules with their intended targets in the human body. Most drugs consist of a structural scaffold that positions certain functional groups at appropriate relative locations to interact with a specific target enzyme or receptor. We are seeking alternatives to the known functional groups that are used in this model. Current efforts are focused on groups that bind with zinc ions. Zinc-containing enzymes are crucial in the biochemical pathways that lead to inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.
The group typically consists of 2-4 undergraduate researchers, ranging from sophomores to seniors. There is also work being done by one master's degree candidate. The group is an excellent place for students to expand their experimental skills and to experience some of the research environment they will find when pursuing careers in the field of biomedical research and medicine.
