Synthetic Neuropharmacology
Development of neurotropic drugs to prevent cell death and preserve neuronal pathways by stimulating formation of axons & dendrites
Our research focuses on the development and creation of molecules that interact with specific properties of neuronal cells. These molecules are designed and synthesized to serve as effective pharmacophores, enabling them to act as promising lead compounds for a groundbreaking neurotropic function that induces neurite outgrowth.
Advancing synthetic agonists targeting TRP receptors for neuropathic pain treatment
We synthesize agonists that effectively engage with the pain receptor TRPV1. Notably, these newly developed molecules defy conventional assumptions as they lack the previously identified crucial domains necessary for this interaction. This groundbreaking discovery significantly advances the TRPV1 activation model, unveiling untapped potential in the realm of pain management. Our findings pave the way for development of novel synthetic platform, offering promising prospects for the future of pain treatment.
Synthesis of cannabinoids and their structural analogues
We specialize in the development of innovative and enhanced synthesis methods for several commonly known cannabinoids, including THC, CBG, CBD, THCV, as well as the authentic derivatization of (-)-Δ9-THCV and CBG. Additionally, our research involves the creation of synthetic fusions between pharmacologically active market drugs and cannabinoid compounds, with the goal of uncovering new synergistic activities through the hybridization of these substances.
Synthesis of novel psychedelic drugs
We establish collaborative partnerships with pharmaceutical and medicinal companies dedicated to exploring and developing groundbreaking therapeutics inspired by psychedelics. Our research primarily revolves around the creation of innovative and patentable psychedelic-like compounds with the potential to serve as drug candidates for the treatment of mental health conditions, neurological disorders, and the promotion of overall brain health.
Synthesis of novel antibiotics
We developed first of a kind matrix-like, collective synthesis of a broad spectrum of novel antibacterial compounds, and methods for their preclinical characterizations as potential confluent drugs to target multidrug-resistant pathogens. We study the chemical and biological properties of new molecules, as well as their targets, and modes of action. To achieve these objectives, we employ established synthetic techniques combined with traditional microbiological approaches.
Synthetic methodology
Synthesis of multiple targets via selective transformations from a common molecular unit
In the course of our experimental studies, we were able to confirm the hypothesis that the presence of similar fundamental core structures is not exclusive to chemical compounds extracted from the same natural source. Common and highly resembling molecular frames can be identified throughout various forms of life, such as different (and often distantly related) families of plants, corals, algae, as well as fungi and even bacteria.
Numerous molecules of life (steroids, terpenoids, alkaloids and fatty acids) were discovered to share common fundamental architectures that, we now believe, determine their pharmacological orientation and contribute to their activity. During the studies, the discovered common cores were designed in our laboratory, and further translated to the synthesis of a broad spectrum of complex molecules via sequence of controlled, simple and atom economy reactions. The invented methodology provides simplified and fast access to a wide variety of important classes of biologically active and structurally interesting molecules on a biologically compatible tests scale.
Molecules thus built, are tested in a broad range of biological assays (measuring primary activities, efficacy, selectivity and cellular toxicity) in a rapid and efficient manner. Offering a conceptually new perspective, it became possible to generate advanced scaffolds that unite different groups of natural molecules and "launch" the necessary type of pharmacological activity. Each of the new products is subjected to a biological evaluation study to reveal its potential therapeutic activity. Positive results drive the selective synthesis of the desired compound and its structural analogues utilizing simple synthetic techniques. Obviously, the developed type of retrosynthetic analysis allows for saving time and financial costs associated with studying the specificity of the pharmacological activity of the molecules.