Nakamura Lab @HKUST
Non-canonical Cyclic Peptides
Cyclic peptides offer several advantages in medicinal chemistry, making them valuable candidates for drug development:
(1) Increased Stability: The cyclic structure of these peptides makes them more resistant to enzymatic degradation compared to linear peptides. This structural stability extends their half-life in biological systems, thereby enhancing their potential as therapeutic agents.
(2) Enhanced Selectivity and Affinity: The conformational rigidity of cyclic peptides allows them to bind more selectively and tightly to their targets, such as proteins or receptors. This leads to increased efficacy and reduced off-target effects, which are desirable properties in drugs.
(3) Improved Bioavailability: Although cyclic peptides may still face challenges with oral bioavailability, their stability and ability to traverse lipid membranes make them more amenable to modifications that can further enhance their absorption and distribution in the body.
(4) Design Versatility: Cyclic peptides can be engineered to contain various functional groups and can be designed to mimic protein surfaces. This versatility allows for the development of peptides that can target challenging biological interfaces, such as protein-protein interactions.
(5) Reduced Immunogenicity: The cyclic nature may reduce their recognition by the immune system as foreign, potentially leading to fewer immune-related adverse reactions.
These advantages make cyclic peptides particularly promising candidates for use as therapeutics, especially in areas where traditional small molecules or large biologics might be less effective.
Electrochemistry
Electrochemical reactions boast a venerable history and tradition spanning nearly 200 years. Electrochemistry was rigorously investigated by Kolbe and his contemporaries in the 19th century and has since been refined by numerous eminent researchers. To date, a multitude of organic chemical reactions have been developed; however, some of these processes necessitate elevated temperatures, rare metals, and impose significant environmental burdens, necessitating improvements for the advancement of a sustainable society. Our research group aspires to transform these existing organic reactions into more efficient and environmentally benign methodologies through the application of electrochemistry, ensuring their accessibility and utility for future generations.