Synthesis of polyphenolic compounds like flavonoids and complexation of those with metals

During the course of the past two decades interest in polyphenols as drugs, biological probes, and nutriceuticals has been quite profound. Flavanoids, in particular, are widely distributed and known to possess a number of valuable properties, for which chalcones (compounds which are much less widely isolated) are suitable biosynthetic precursors. Our group proposes the preparation of a number of chalcone derivatives, particularly seeking to explore molecules (inspired by several natural products) which have hybrid structures containing both lipophilic and cationic domains (among others) potentially capable of binding to biotargets in unique ways. In particular their ability to bind metal ions such as manganese to zinc (in fact any 3d metal) is our focus of interest.

Financial support:

  1. Wissenschaftlich-Technische Zusammenarbeit mit Rumänien 2012-13, Projekt Nr. RO 11/2012; 01.01.2012-31.12.2013: "Biomimetische Komplexe der 3 d Metalle mit tripodalen Liganden und Flavonen: Strukturelle und physikochemische Untersuchungen." (PI A. Rompel 50%, PI Dr. G. Ionita, Institute of Physical Chemistry “Ilie Murgulescu”, Bucharest 50 %)
  2. Wissenschaftlich-Technische Zusammenarbeit mit Rumänien 2014-15, Projekt Nr. RO 14/2014, 01.01.2012-31.12.2013, "Physicochemical properties of proteins of the oxidase class in solutions and gels" (PI A. Rompel 50%, PI Dr. G. Ionita, Institute of Physical Chemistry “Ilie Murgulescu”, Bucharest 50 %).