Design, synthesis and evaluation of covalent chemical probes for labelling of enzymes

KU Leuven , 1 or 2 semesters
We aim to discover the role of proteases and their use as targets for drugs or diagnostics.
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Design, synthesis and evaluation of covalent chemical probes for labelling of enzymes
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Activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) is aimed at the detection of active enzymes in a tissue, cell or cell lysate. Comparison of different disease states can eventually pinpoint enzymes as potential drug targets.

ABPP makes use of covalent chemical probes, which are crucial in the labeling of enzymes. Our laboratory has a focus on the synthesis and application of these tools for proteases, and to lesser extent for kinases and ion channels. In this project, you will design, synthesize and evaluate chemical probes for one of these protein classes. Experimental techniques may include solution and solid phase synthesis, compound analysis, gel electrophoresis, enzyme kinetics and cell culture.

  • The project is available in the Fall and Spring semester.
  • Number of placements available: 2 per semester.

Prerequisites

  • High level undergraduate student.
  • Minimum GPA 3.4
  • Experience with chemical synthesis required.

Faculty Department

Faculty of Medicine / Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine

The department combines expertises in techniques of bio-organic chemistry, biochemistry, electrophysiology, molecular biology, cell imaging, proteomics, bio-informatics and animal model development to aquire new insigts into cellular signaling and communication processes. An additional aim is to decipher the molecular basis for human signal-transduction related diseases and to identify novel therapeutic targets. The department consists of 18 research groups, maintaining close contacts with other departments of the KU Leuven and with the University Hospital. The laboratory of chemical biology specializes in the design and synthesis of chemical probes to  covalently label proteins of interests in cells and cell lysates.