Our Research
Protein-protein interactions are physical contacts established between proteins that result in a functional output that is unique to the protein complex. They are central to all biological pathways, from intercellular communication to programmed cell death. Protein-protein interactions are often dysregulated in disease, and therefore represent a large and important class of targets for basic scientific inquiry as well as therapeutic development.
Our group is interested in developing molecules based on bioinformatics analysis, protein chemistry, and systems-wide biological assays to modulate protein interactions in a predictable and controlled manner. Using a multidisciplinary approach, which includes bioinformatics; organic synthesis; peptide and protein chemistry; biophysics; biochemistry; cell-based assay and animal models of human diseases, we rationally design and synthesize selective protein-protein interaction regulators. These regulators modulate molecular targets of relevance to cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, neglected tropical diseases and other life-threatening diseases.
Our research focuses on:
- Characterization of protein-protein interactions in various biological systems in physiological and pathological conditions.
- Development of novel pharmacological tools as highly selective regulators of specific protein-protein interactions, such as small molecules, peptides and peptidomimetics (modified peptides).
- Optimization of the pharmacological tools in various biological assays, such as in vitro, cell-based assays, and animal models.