Current Research

Using state-of-the-art instruments and techniques we design and synthesize organic molecules. Our focus is on multi-disciplinary collaborative projects to develop new tools and therapeutic compounds to probe complex biological systems. Currently, we are focused in two areas: development of novel modulators for nuclear orphan receptors (ROR, RevErb, ERR), and development of methods and strategies for targeting drug-resistant bacteria.

Modulators of Nuclear Orphan Receptors

RevErb

We have identified a nuclear receptor, Rev-erb, that is part of a signaling pathway found in Alzheimer's Disease. Studies show a loss of function of Rev-erb leads to cognitive deficits associated with the disease. Thus, we are optimizing a novel series of compounds that have agonistic properties of RevErb. Computational chemistry is used to screen databases of compounds and identify new potential molecules of interest. Molecular modeling is used to enhance our understanding of the interactions between the molecules and their target.

Anti-Bacterial Therapeutics

Efflux Pump Inhibitors (EPI)

Strains from gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAO) can develop resistance to different classes to current antibiotics. This occurs due to the overexpression of multi-drug resistant efflux pumps leading to clinical resistance. Our objective is to develop EPIs in order to potentiate and reinvigorate existing antibiotics. We use a combination of experimental screening, and in silico virtual screening to identify and optimize novel classes of EPIs.

Anti-bacterial Drugs

Every year in the U.S., there are ~ 2.8 million infections and more than 35,000 deaths attributed to antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi. Our objective is to screen, develop, and synthesize novel antibiotic resistance bacteria.