A&P Seminar - Vince Rotello

The Analytical and Physical Seminar Series presents: Vince Rotello

University of Massachusetts

Host: Devleena Samanta

Title: Bioorthogonal nanozymes: Harnessing the power of transition metal catalysis for in situ therapeutic generation 

Refreshments served at 3:15pm

Location: WEL 2.122

Bioorthogonal transition metal catalysts (TMCs) can be used to transform therapeutically inactive molecules (prodrugs) into active drug compounds. TMCs, however, generally have low stability in biological environments.  Inorganic and polymeric nanoscaffolds can be employed to protect and solublize catalysts while offering a flexible design space for decoration with targeting element and stimuli-responsive activity. These bioorthogonal nanozymes mimic the behavior of native enzymes while accessing a wide range of chemistries orthogonal to native enzymes. Bioorthogonal nanozymes can serve as “drug factories,” activating prodrugs in situ, localizing treatment to the disease site, and minimizing off-target effects. Inorganic and polymeric nanoscaffolds provide structurally diverse scaffolds for encapsulating TMCs. This ability to define catalyst environment can be used to enhance the stability and selectivity of the TMC. The use of inorganic nanomaterials, polymers, and other materials as scaffolds for TMCs, and the use of these bioorthogonal nanozymes in vitro and in vivo applications will be discussed.