Bioguided fractionation is carried out from native species of Córdoba (previously selected for their possible antitumor activity) and the nanovehiculization of the most active fractions or compounds is foreseen in order to improve their unfavorable characteristics. It is a multidisciplinary work which covers edges of Organic Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences and Biological Sciences.

Due to the urgent need to control biofilm-producing microorganisms that are resistant to commercial  antimicrobials, we study the use of plant-derived metabolites with antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungal strains, specifically evaluating the action of light as a photoactivation trigger to increase their biological activity. We emphasize in the characterization of photophysical, photochemical and photobiological properties of the compounds.

We are conducting a search for natural compounds and semi-synthetic derivatives that exhibit trypanocidal activities against different stages of Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible for Chagas-Mazza disease. Among the natural products, bioactive sesquiterpene lactones have demonstrated potential as ideal candidates for derivatization through various synthetic strategies, including ring distortion, oxidations, and molecular hybrid formation, among others. 

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites undergo changes over time, rendering them unresponsive to medicines. This phenomenon makes infections more difficult to treat and increases the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death. Currently, nanotechnology offers valuable alternatives for the development of novel antimicrobial formulations with improved activity, solubility, and selectivity. In combination with the exploration of new semi-synthetic derivatives from natural compounds obtained from native flora, it is possible to merge both aspects. This involves the use of nanoparticles loaded with novel antimicrobials, thereby enhancing their capability to address the AMR outbreak.

Our project is dedicated to the development of natural product-based compounds with antimicrobial properties.

Through a bioguided exploration of secondary metabolite plants, we strive to identify and isolate bioactive compounds with antimicrobial potential. Upon obtaining promising hits, we undertake chemical derivatization of extracts and metabolites to conduct structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, increase potency and minimize toxicity. Chemical derivatization includes: nitrogen enrichment, oxidation, reduction, biocatalysis, and photochemistry among others.