Targeting Protein Function Using Structure-Activity Relationship (SAR) Studies and Proteolysis-Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs) – Organic Synthesis is the Key

Abstract: Research in the Derksen group is based around the use of organic chemistry to explore questions in biology.  This talk will discuss our differing approaches to developing modulators using natural product SAR studies compared to using PROTAC-mediated degradation of target proteins.  Throughout the course of these studies, we inevitably encounter synthetic challenges that provide opportunities for chemical methodology development.  The elucidation of efficient chemical syntheses remains central to advancing biological studies.