Xu Research Group
Our research aims to develop innovative synthetic methodologies, therapeutic approaches, and chemical biology tools, and apply them to solving pressing problems of biological and medical importance. New synthetic strategies (e.g. late-stage C–H functionalization and electrocatalysis) are applied to develop new reaction methods for the controlled and sustainable synthesis of complex organic molecules including those with biological activity. In addition, our exploration of new therapeutic approaches (e.g. targeted covalent inhibition and targeted protein degradation) provides new opportunities to address traditionally “undruggable” disease targets. We combine these efforts to achieve the research goal of identifying small-molecule probes and drug candidates that specifically remove/inhibit disease-causing proteins in cells and animal models and ultimately impact human health. Representative research directions include:
Targeted protein inhibition and degradation for COVID-19 and cancer drug discovery
Late-stage functionalization & Electrocatalysis
Organoboron chemistry and its applications in drug discovery
Group News
Group News
2023/10 We are excited to welcome first-year graduate students: Thinh (John) Nguyen, Sophea Pa, and Ramy Yousef!
© Xu Group
© Xu Group