Mentor/s:
Cornelis P. Vlaar, PhD
Project Title:
Development of novel inhibitors targeting nav channels for epilepsy treatment
Project Description:
I developed an independent project under Dr. Vlaar that combined my interests in neuroscience and organic chemistry. I design and synthesize novel Nav channel inhibitors for epilepsy treatment by creating derivatives of the antiepileptic drug Rufinamide. I began this project by identifying the residues in voltage-gated sodium channels that interact with Rufinamide to exert its antiepileptic effects. Next, I selected functional groups that would enhance interactions with these residues and designed potential molecules incorporating these modifications. Using molecular docking software, such as AutoDock Vina, I predicted binding affinities and identified the most promising candidates for synthesis. As part of my project, I conduct organic syntheses, purification, and characterization using proton and carbon-13 NMR. Currently, I am developing 10 novel derivatives and collaborating with Dr. Alfredo Ghezzi’s lab to evaluate the anticonvulsant activity of these compounds using a Drosophila model.
Mentor/s:
Andrew Tidball, PhD
Project Title:
Role of SYNGAP1 in the Development of Neural Tube Defects
Project Description:
My worked focused on human developmental brain malformations, specifically the role of SYNGAP1 in neural tube defects. Using brain organoids derived from CRISPR-engineered and patient-derived stem cells, I investigated the gene’s contribution to anencephaly. This project enabled me to master techniques such as stem cell culture, immunocytochemistry, and confocal microscopy. Preliminary findings revealed that brain organoids with SYNGAP1 mutations exhibited altered neuronal differentiation and disrupted cellular organization. These results underscored the critical role of SYNGAP1 in human brain development and laid the groundwork for future therapeutic interventions.
