Synthesis of A. Mexicana Inspired Antimicrobial Agents

Faculty Sponsor

Jeffrey Pruet

College

Arts and Sciences

Department/Program

Chemistry and Biochemistry

ORCID Identifier(s)

Jessica Villegas(0000-0003-0268-5114); Bryce Ball(0000-0001-5660-4266); Jeffrey Pruet(0000-0002-6100-4633)

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-23-2021

Abstract

Bacterial and fungal infections occur when microorganisms invade the tissue and, if left untreated, can affect the whole body. Pathogenic bacterial and fungal infections are some of the leading causes of death in the population at large. Due to the ever-growing prevalence of drug-resistant “superbugs” and the lack of new antimicrobial drugs, there is a need to explore new and alternative pathways for fighting these diseases. Through a collaborative project, we have explored separation of key components of the seed, stem, leaves, and root of the Argemone mexicana plant to isolate antimicrobial agents found within this plant. We have already identified three key molecules which give this plant anti-microbial properties against gram-positive bacteria. We are now focused on designing and synthesizing new variants of these bioactive molecules in the hopes of discovering new, more potent, drugs.

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