# LEAPS-MPS: Synthesis, Structural Analysis, and Characterization of Opioid Cyclic Tetrapeptides

> **NSF 010V2122DB R&RA ARP Act DEFC V** · CSU Fullerton Auxiliary Services Corporation (CA) · $249,311

## Abstract

This award is funded in whole or in part under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (Public Law 117-2).  In this project, funded by the Mathematical and Physical Sciences Directorate and housed in the Chemistry Division, Professor Michael Ferracane and his students at University of Redlands will study the structure, properties, and opioid activities of a series of related cyclic peptides. This research will improve fundamental knowledge of cyclic peptide structure while assessing the scaffold’s therapeutic potential. Notably, the project will integrate new software/equipment into research and coursework at Redlands, and it will provide six undergraduate students from underrepresented groups with the opportunity to (1) engage in research projects on and off campus, (2) participate in a series of scaffolded professional development exercises, and (3) mentor similar students through on-campus programs.

Professor Ferracane and his students will assess the structure-activity relationship of cyclic tetrapeptides to better understand their chemical structure, properties, and potential as opioid therapeutics. They will perform chemical synthesis, NMR analysis, and molecular modeling as well as a series of assays that measure solubility, membrane permeability, and opioid receptor binding. It is believed that distinct conformations impart a peptide with the ability to be soluble in water, passively permeate membranes, and bind the opioid receptors. The combined work will illuminate 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2523393
- **Awardee organization:** CSU Fullerton Auxiliary Services Corporation (CA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** VQ5WK498QDC6
- **PI:** Michael J Ferracane
- **Primary program:** 010V2122DB R&RA ARP Act DEFC V
- **All programs:** COVID-Disproportionate Impcts Inst-Indiv, BROADENING PARTICIPATION, Biotechnology
- **Estimated total:** $249,311
- **Funds obligated:** $83,538
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2025 → 12/31/2026

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2523393

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2523393, LEAPS-MPS: Synthesis, Structural Analysis, and Characterization of Opioid Cyclic Tetrapeptides. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2523393. Licensed CC0.

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