Research in the Lab

Our laboratory is interested in topics at the interface of Chemistry and Biology, ranging from synthetic organic chemistry in solution and on solid support, to exploring the bioactivity of peptides and peptidomimetics. We seek to develop innovative, broadly applicable tools for generating compounds that can be used to streamline peptide-based drug discovery efforts.

Synthetic approaches to peptide drug design

Peptide drugs are an increasingly important class of therapeutic agents, often exhibiting higher target affinity and fewer side effects in comparison to their small molecule counterparts. Despite such promising bioactivity, peptide therapeutics are plagued by their susceptibility to proteolytic degradation, poor oral bioavailability, and limited cell permeability.

We are interested in probing new synthetic strategies, including macrocyclization, peptide stapling, and chemoselective backbone modifications, to enhance the drug-like properties of bioactive peptides. Multi-disciplinary projects will involve solution and solid phase organic synthesis, structural analysis, and biological screening of the synthesized compounds.

Native Chemical Ligation (NCL) and Expanding Its Applications

Native Chemical Ligation (NCL) is a powerful method for synthesizing peptides and proteins by chemoselectively joining unprotected peptide fragments via a thioester and an N-terminal cysteine. This technique has revolutionized protein chemistry, enabling the synthesis of complex, biologically relevant molecules.

Our lab is actively involved in developing new techniques to expand the scope and efficiency of NCL. These efforts include designing innovative strategies for templated NCL, incorporating non canonical amino acids, and integrating NCL with other chemical ligation methods. By pushing the boundaries of NCL, we aim to create advanced tools that can facilitate the synthesis of increasingly complex peptide and protein targets.

Antimicrobial peptides for combating drug-resistant bacterial infections

Antimicrobial resistance is a significant public health threat, necessitating the development of new antimicrobial agents. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are promising natural compounds with potent activity against various microorganisms, but their clinical use is limited by issues like stability and toxicity. Therefore, generating new AMPs with improved properties is essential to overcome antimicrobial resistance and develop effective therapeutic agents.

Our research focuses on designing innovative AMP hybrids by combining peptoid sequences with peptides. By leveraging the complementary properties of peptides and peptoids, we aim to create advanced antimicrobial compounds that exhibit improved stability, reduced toxicity, and potent activity against drug resistant pathogens