Chemical Science

   At the core of our research programme is the development of efficient chemoselective protocols for the synthesis and transformation of diverse small organic molecules with therapeutic and/or industrial relevance.

   Understand the tendency of a molecule / substance to undergo chemical changes in a system (the Nature) is vital in this programme. Our proposed reaction mechanisms try to explain how these changes occur: herein we talk about the heart of chemistry! 

Research theme 1: SYNTHESIS and CATALYSIS

Metal-based catalysts and Organocatalysts

The ultimate goal for catalysis research is to design active, stable and selective catalysts. In this research theme we combine the rational design and novel synthethic methods to develop innovative  Co-, Ni-, Cu-, and Zn-based catalysts, organocatalysts and catalytic processes.

The research plan on catalysis is founded in an integrated strategy inspired by the unique physico-chemical properties of a well-defined set of hybrid azoles, viz., tetrazoles, thiazoles and thiadiazoles. Such strategy will embrace the synthesis of new ligands comprising in their structure at least two kinds of azole cores, having in mind their use in coordination chemistry --> metal-catalysis and organocatalysis. 

Novel catalytic methodologies:  current focus is on the use of our catalysts in key reactions such as Mannich, aldol, amination, oxidation of alcohols and alkanes, Diels-Alder and ring close metathesis . Catalytic eco-friendly protocols will be applied whenever possible, covering the use of water as reaction medium, the recycling of catalysts, the use of efficient heat sources (e.g. microwaves) or continuous flow production methods (when it is possible to immobilize the catalytic species on solid supports). 

Research theme 2: MEDCHEM

New leads for cancer chemotherapy

With the introduction of the concept of cuproptosis, an increasing number of researchers are intent on exploring its relationship with tumors. Studies on the relationship have covered most common cancer types and analyzed the links between Cuproptosis-related genes (CRGs) and various aspects of tumor characteristics. However, these studies have only indirectly demonstrated the links between cuproptosis and cancer due to the insufficient biological evidence and experimental validation, whether these genes play a direct role in the relationship between cuproptosis and tumors or receive indirect effects from both is still unknown. Several genes have been identified by different investigators in these studies to construct signatures that may play a more significant role in the association between cuproptosis and cancers. Further studies, which examine the relationship between these repeatedly mentioned CRGs and cuproptosis, will need to be undertaken.

Past studies on copper have also provided a sufficient basis for future studies on the specific mechanisms of cuproptosis and its relationship with tumors. A variety of drugs have been identified in past studies to elevate intracellular copper ion concentrations including copper ionophores, copper ion complexes, and many copper chelators that block the elevation of copper ion concentrations.

In this research theme the current focus is on the synthesis of novel copper ionophores, copper chelators and copper complexes with cuproptosis-inducing functions to use in combination with small molecule drugs for targeted therapy to treat specific cancers.

Herein, on the search of new leads for cancer chemotherapy, whenever possible, we try to follow disruptive protocols. Disruptive research tends to introduce new approaches and ask fundamental questions, while “developmental” research is more likely to adjust or test old theories and apply them in new contexts.