Research focus
The research group “Phenylpropanoids & Diterpenes” focuses on (1) the development of new highly stereoselective synthetic approaches to these groups of compounds, and (2) the creation of new “chemical probes” for studying biochemical transformations with the aim of discovering new molecular targets within these systems.
(1) The development of new stereoselective transformations targets novel environmentally friendly, enzyme-inspired transformations based on catalytic processes that utilize non-covalent interactions to activate individual reagents. These transformations are primarily designed for easy application in the preparation of specific chemical libraries with extensive chemical space coverage, making them readily applicable (2) for identifying new molecular targets within defined organisms/biotransformations—the development of new chemical probes based on small organic molecules.
The main goals in this area include (a) the identification of new molecular targets in helminths and parasitic protozoa, enabling the development of novel therapeutics with anthelmintic and antiparasitic effects, and (b) studying the role of gibberellins (plant hormones) in regulating developmental processes in plants.
Research leader
Team members
- Corinne De Dobbeleer
More information are available on the group website pospisilab.com.