Synthesis and Optimization of Berberine Derivatives as Antimicrobial Agents

Level of Education of Students Involved

Undergraduate

Faculty Sponsor

Jeffrey Pruet

College

College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)

Discipline(s)

Chemistry

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-24-2025

Abstract

Pathogenic bacterial and fungal infections are some of the leading causes of death in the population at large. Antimicrobial-resistant “superbugs” have become a growing issue worldwide as well as on the International Space Station, and there is a great need to explore new and alternative pathways for fighting these diseases. Through a collaborative project, we have explored extracts of the Argemone mexicana plant to isolate antimicrobial agents found within this plant. We have already identified three key molecules, notably berberine, which give this plant antimicrobial properties. Guided by the structures of the plant-derived molecules, our current work is focused on designing and synthesizing new variants of these bioactive molecules in the hopes of discovering new, more potent, drugs. Thus far, several of our synthetic variants have shown promising activity over the original phytochemicals isolated from the plant. Trends have emerged showing enhanced antibacterial activity with more hydrophobic variants.

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