Chemical Synthesis of Complex Natural Products for Translational Science

NIH RePORTER · NIH · R35 · $6,432 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT Research Supplement to Promote Diversity in Health-Related Research The goals of the continuing R35GM118173 research program “Chemical Synthesis of Complex Natural Products for Translational Science” involve chemical syntheses of bioactive molecules for translational studies. A diversity supplement is requested for an American Colombian-Nicaraguan student researcher to develop a comprehensive research experience and mentoring plan for the chemical synthesis of complex natural products and derivatives. A research plan is proposed to develop methodology for catalytic asymmetric excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) photocycloaddition to access bioactive aglain and rocaglate scaffolds. Chemical synthesis aims involve: 1) Synthesis and evaluation of novel TEFDDOL photocatalysts for photocycloaddition with 3-hydroxyflavones and 2) Application of the asymmetric synthesis methodology to access aglain natural products and derivatives. A mentoring and career development plan is described to enable training of Mr. Borge in allied research areas including medicinal chemistry, flow-mediated synthesis, and computational studies through the mentorship of an affiliated Dissertation Advisory Committee (DAC), and to provide preparation for next career steps. Additional training elements include coursework, research skills training in synthetic chemistry by interaction with group members as well as personnel from affiliated research groups, workshops on special topics (e.g. RCR, safety, and preparation for an academic career), participation in grant writing, and mentorship of undergraduate students. Progress will be tracked via deliverables such as publications and conferences. The candidate plans to also initiate a program in his free time with a local community college to provide exposure to chemical research to interested students. Overall, the planned studies will aim to achieve comprehensive training of an outstanding Latino researcher and are relevant to public health in that they will also enable preclinical development of novel classes of anticancer and antiviral agents.

Key facts

NIH application ID
10838112
Project number
3R35GM118173-08S2
Recipient
BOSTON UNIVERSITY (CHARLES RIVER CAMPUS)
Principal Investigator
JOHN A. PORCO
Activity code
R35
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2024
Award amount
$6,432
Award type
3
Project period
2016-05-01 → 2026-04-30