At the Division of Organic Pharmaceutical Chemistry of the Department of Medicinal Chemistry, we perform basic research in both experimental and computational medicinal chemistry. Our research interests encompass a range of targets of pharmaceutical interest, including enzymes and membrane bound G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs).
Our research interests encompass a range of targets of pharmaceutical interest including proteases and membrane bound G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). One of our primary themes is to identify novel and selective low molecular weight ligands for these targets. New strategies are developed for both the design and for the synthesis of small, drug-like molecules. Lead compounds are optimized using computer-aided techniques and are preferentially synthesized using high-speed chemistry.
Major indications that are addressed are infections caused by HIV and HCV (Hepatitis C Virus) as well as the infectious diseases Malaria and Tuberculosis. In addition, basic research on the transformation of biologically active peptides into more drug-like peptidomimetics is carried out, with special focus on the Renin/Angiotensin system and neuropeptides, such as Substance P 1-7. Furthermore, non-peptidic ß-secretase inhibitors for future treatment of Alzheimer's disease are designed, prepared and evaluated.
The Division provides several courses in the master's programs in Pharmacy and Dispensing Pharmacy. The Division is responsible for undergraduate teaching in general pharmaceutical chemistry, organic pharmaceutical chemistry and medicinal chemistry at the Faculty of Pharmacy.