Understanding Molecular Interactions Using Bioorganic And Supramolecular Chemistry

My research group is interested in the physical and bioorganic chemistry of synthetic and natural receptors and molecular recognition. Using a combination of synthesis, combinatorial techniques, NMR, kinetics, computer modeling, and optical signaling, we design and implement studies oriented at the development of receptors for numerous real world applications. In specific, we focus upon receptors for diols, catechols, carbohydrates, enolates, and enantiomeric excess using single and multi-analyte sensing ensembles.

To this end, our group works on synthetic and designed receptors for the analysis of complex analytes in real-life settings by mimicking the mammalian senses of taste and smell. As a means of developing sensors, we are pursuing the formation of combinatorial libraries of peptidic and non-peptidic structures augmented with elements of rational chemical design. We have used receptors designed this way to generate fingerprints that differentiate between the individual members of a targeted class of molecules. These types of receptors can be used to determine the identify of mixtures, enantiomeric excess of a reaction, or identify analytes in a mixture.

Finally, we are also pursuing the use of polymers and other large molecules for the creation of multicomponent assemblies that can be used in multianalyte sensing applications. Different portions of the assembly impart the differential behavior and cross-reactivity, as well as bias toward the central recognition element for the target class of molecules. While our group works in many different areas, each of our projects relies upon the principles of supramolecular, organic, and biological chemistry, to unite them together.