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Biomimetic And Medicinal Organic Chemistry
Overview
Research in organic chemistry is strongly oriented towards the synthesis of compounds of potential medicinal use. We are therefore involved in developing synthetic methods towards a wide range of targets, ranging from small heterocycles and polyoxygenated systems, up to macrocyclic lactones and DNA analogues. For example, cycloaddition reactions are being used to prepare novel sugar analogues and nucleotides with antiviral properties, whilst other heterocyclic compounds are being targeted for the treatment of asthma, cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
We are also trying to tackle diseases by probing the mechanisms of key biological processes; thus, the synthetic porphyrin (above) is designed to model the nitric oxide synthase enzymes that play a key role in the function of the cardiovascular, nervous and immune systems. We are developing enzyme mimics such as these in order to understand the mechanism of enzyme action more precisely, and by doing so assist the design of new drugs and create new technology for biomedical research and medical diagnosis.
Much of our research involves collaboration with industrial colleagues; this has led to work on novel synthetic processes, on the preparation of new polymers, and on projects in pharmaceutical chemistry.
RESEARCH AREAS
- Asymmetric Synthesis
- Heterocyclic Chemistry
- New Synthetic Reagents
- Cycloaddition Reactions
- Carbohydrate Chemistry
- Cyclic Peroxides
- Alkaloids and Peptides
- DNA/RNA Analogues
- Antibiotics
- Antiviral Agents
- Anti-cancer Drugs
- Drugs for Diabetes and Asthma
- Host/guest Chemistry
Detailed information can be found on the Chemistry web pages.
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, or your first degree was not taught in English, we’ll need to see evidence of your English language ability. The minimum requirement for English language is IELTS 6.5 or equivalent. We offer a range of English language courses to help you meet the English language requirement prior to starting your masters programme:
- 2 semesters English (for IELTS of 4.5-5.0);
- 12 weeks English (for IELTS of 5.5);
- 6 weeks English (for IELTS 5.5*-6.0). (*minimum 5.5 reading and writing)
