CALVIN COLLEGE
Grant: $170,000 - National Science Foundation - Jul. 6, 2009
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Award Description: This project will focus on the development of methods for the formation of N-alkyl pyridone containing structures, including amino acid homologues. N-Alkyl pyridones are interesting motifs due to their prevalence in natural products as well as their ability to serve as biological mimics in pharmaceutical targets. Recent disclosure of a lithium iodide promoted alkyl migration for the synthesis of N-alkyl pyridones has appeared and will be studied further. The synthesis of beta- and gamma-amino acids containing an N-alkyl pyridone moiety will also be pursued. Incorporation of such amino acids into peptides is expected to provide protein mimics with unique folding tendencies for application to both medicinal and material applications. With this award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program is supporting the research of Professor Carolyn Anderson of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Calvin College. Professor Anderson's research efforts revolve around the development of facile methods for the synthesis and application of structures containing N-alkyl pyridones. Such chemistry will contribute a unique class of amino acid homologues, which will subsequently be used to expand our understanding of the helical structure of peptides containing these subunits. Successful development of this methodology will have an impact on the synthetic community as well as those involved in the development of organic materials and medicinal targets.
Project Description: See Award Description. Further, a new inert atmosphere glove box funded by the grant has been received and installed during this quarter.
Jobs Summary: Three undergraduate students are being employed as part-time research assistants during the academic year, using the funds provided by the Recovery Act. These students need to work in order to cover the costs of college. The funds provided by the Recovery Act through this NSF grant have allowed them to earn this money while gaining valuable research experience that will enable them to pursue graduate studies and careers in the chemical sciences. Without these funds, these students would have to work elsewhere, gaining less of the required experience and potentially taking positions from others who also have similar financial concerns. (Total jobs reported: 0)
Project Status: Less Than 50% Completed
This award's data was last updated on Jul. 6, 2009. Help expand these official descriptions using the wiki below.
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