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  BERLINER, Lawrence J.

  Professor
  Phone: 303-871-7476
  Email: berliner@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/lberlin1

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The Berliner group uses unpaired electrons to probe dynamics and distances between selected sites on a protein that are sensitive to it's unique structure and function. This may be substituting a paramagnetic lanthanide for a calcium ion or by covalently adding novel aminoxyl radical probes called spin labels. The spectral analyses, including distance measurements between probes, provides insight on how a protein folds and important conformational changes associated with function. Additionally we use molecules called spin traps to characterize free radicals in-vivo. Some studies are important to health problems ranging from ischemia/heart disease to infection shock. We pioneered development of techniques and instrumentation for live animal applications which are now routine in unique laboratories around the world. We also utilize MRI in these in vivo applications. Current research involves a homologous family of calcium binding proteins that have tumor killing properties in molten globule form. These also form amyloid aggregates and fibrils, which may be excellent models for neurodegenerative disease proteins. The free radical project involves intermediates of a common blood pressure lowering drug that may lead to heart disease. The work includes protein expression and labeling, spectroscopic measurements by magnetic resonance, fluorescence, CD and subsequent data analysis. We collaborate with biochemists, chemists, and biophysicists as well as spectroscopists and engineers at outside institutions that provide state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

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  COWEN, Bryan

  Assistant Professor
  Phone:303-871-2981
  Email: Bryan.Cowen@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/bcowen

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The Cowen group’s research program focuses on the development of new synthetic methods for the preparation of small, functional organic compounds. Special emphasis centers on the discovery of unique asymmetric reactions to enable the selective construction of complex chiral molecular architectures. The design of small-molecule catalysts and ligands for both non-metal and metal-mediated transformations are key research activities ongoing in the laboratory. Additionally, the investigation of detailed mechanistic reaction pathways is of paramount importance to the maturation of any new synthetic method. A particular goal of our efforts in chemical synthesis is to produce valuable end products for potential pharmaceutical or material-based applications.

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  EATON, Gareth R.

  Professor
  Phone: 303-871-2980
  Email: geaton@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/geaton

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The Eaton group develops new methods and instrumentation to measure electron spin relaxation and spectra to solve biomedical problems. One application uses unpaired electrons in biological molecules to probe dynamics and distances between locations on a protein. The unpaired electrons may be on native sites of a protein such as radicals or iron complexes or may be intentionally added as probes. The distance measurements are used to study how protein subunits combine into larger assemblies and how conformations change to accomplish reactions. We are developing continuous wave, pulsed, and rapid scan instrumentation and techniques for recording spectra of unpaired electrons at resonance frequencies between 250 MHz and 9 GHz. In collaboration with research groups at University of Chicago and University of Maryland we are developing methods for imaging local oxygen concentrations in vivo and methods for study of physiology of tumors. Our research team includes chemists, biochemists, physicists, and engineers.

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  EATON, Sandra S.

  Professor and Department Chair
  Phone: 303-871-3100
  Email: seaton@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/seaton

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The Eaton group develops new methods and instrumentation to measure electron spin relaxation and spectra to solve biomedical problems. One application uses unpaired electrons in biological molecules to probe dynamics and distances between locations on a protein. The unpaired electrons may be on native sites of a protein such as radicals or iron complexes or may be intentionally added as probes. The distance measurements are used to study how protein subunits combine into larger assemblies and how conformations change to accomplish reactions. We are developing continuous wave, pulsed, and rapid scan instrumentation and techniques for recording spectra of unpaired electrons at resonance frequencies between 250 MHz and 9 GHz. In collaboration with research groups at University of Chicago and University of Maryland we are developing methods for imaging local oxygen concentrations in vivo and methods for study of physiology of tumors. Our research team includes chemists, biochemists, physicists, and engineers.

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  HARRINGTON, Peter

  Lecturer
  Phone: 303-871-2951
  Email: peter.harrington@du.edu
   

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  I am currently lecturing in organic chemistry and supervising the organic chemistry labs. My primary research focus is synthetic organic chemistry of pharmaceutically relevant small molecules. My secondary research focus is the development of new synthetic methodology in heterocyclic and organometallic chemistry. I work as a consultant for the pharmaceutical industry with a specialization in the transition ("scale-up") of a synthesis process from milligrams to kilograms in the lab and from kilograms to metric tons in the manufacturing plant. You can read more about my past research in pharmaceutical manufacturing and read excerpts from my recently released book Pharmaceutical Process Chemistry for Synthesis (John Wiley & Sons, 2011) at my website (www.betterpharmaprocesses.com).

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  HUFFMAN,Alex

  Assistant Professor
  Phone: 303-871-4404
  Email: alex.huffman@du.edu
  http://tinyurl.com/HuffmanLabDU

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  My research focuses on atmospheric aerosols (small particles suspended in air), including their roles in various environmental processes and human health concerns. We deploy instrumentation to field sites for in-situ ambient monitoring and also work to develop and characterize new analytical techniques. Several of my current projects revolve around the detection of biological aerosols (e.g. fungal spores, bacteria, pollen) with the goal of understanding how these particles may contribute to cloud formation and climate cycles.

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  KNOWLES, Michelle

  Assistant Professor
  Phone: 303-871-6698
  Email: michelle.knowles@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/mknowle6

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The goal of our research is to understand the molecular mechanism of membrane proteins. We use biophysical techniques, such as imaging and spectroscopy, to temporally map proteins on the plasma membrane of living cells and model membrane systems. We are particularly interested in proteins that facilitate the fusion of intracellular vesicles with the plasma membrane and proteins that regulate the flow of chemicals across the plasma membrane.

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  KRISTENSSON, Candace

  Lecturer
  Phone: 303-871-2985
  Email: candace.kristensson@du.edu

   

  BACKGROUND
  I am currently lecturing for the non-science majors series, Science of Contemporary Issues. My research background is in catalysis development for synthetic organic chemistry. As a lecturer, my main goals are to improve the understanding of how chemistry effects our daily lives, to impart the importance of sustainable chemistry and sustainable living, and to provide quality scientific education to all students.

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  KUTATELADZE, Andrei G.

  Professor
  Phone: 303-871-2995
  Email: akutatel@du.edu
  http://kgroup.du.edu

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The K-groups interests are in applied and theoretical organic photochemistry. We discover and study new photochemical reactions, pursuing a better understanding of the nature and reactivity of excited states. This knowledge is employed to develop practical applications ranging from expeditious synthesis of complex molecular scaffolds to designing new assays for high throughput bioanalytical applications and combinatorial screening, useful for the thriving field of chemical biology. We continue to develop innovative methodologies for detection and photochemical pre-amplification of molecular recognition events, both in solution and on a chip. These techniques are being applied to medicinal chemistry, helping identification of novel drug candidates and lead compounds. Organic photochemistry is an exciting and growing area, offering opportunities in many fields, including chemistry, biochemistry, and chemical biology!

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  MAJESTIC, Brian

  Assistant Professor
  Phone: 303-871-2986
  Email: brian.majestic@du.edu
   

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The research interests in the Majestic lab focus around atmospheric particulate matter (PM). We are presently interested in understanding transformations of transition metals in atmospheric systems. Currently, we are studying oxidation state and speciation changes of iron as it is processed in cloud water and upon interaction with “urban” gases, such as sulfur dioxide. In addition, we are interested in better quantifying human exposure of atmospheric metals. Therefore, we are involved in field studies in and around the Denver area, the American Southwest, and China. The work done in our lab has implications near and far: on how we understand the human health effects of atmospheric metals to providing insights into the global iron cycle. Our primary tools of measurement include inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and long pathlength UV-vis spectrophotometry.

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  MARGITTAI, Martin

  Assistant Professor
  Phone: 303-871-4135
  Email: martin.margittai@du.edu
   

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The folding of proteins into correct three-dimensional structures and the control over their intermolecular interactions is of central importance to the proper functioning of cells. A complex machinery has evolved that assists in folding and ensures proper protein contacts. Malfunctioning of this machinery can lead to protein misfolding and result in fatal human diseases including Parkinson's disease and Type II diabetes. A characteristic feature of most misfolding diseases is the deposition of proteins into fibrillar inclusions and plaques. Research in our lab focuses on the misfolding of the microtubule associated protein tau. Tau fibrils are found in numerous neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer?s disease and progressive supranuclear palsy. The formation of fibrils is a multistep process starting from monomeric disordered tau. The conformational changes leading to oligomers and the progression into mature fibrils are only poorly understood. Our lab uses a broad range of biophysical approaches to obtain structural insights into the misfolding of tau. We are furthermore interested in elucidating the cellular mechanisms that control tau function and prevent fibril formation. A detailed molecular understanding of the tau structures involved, their conformational transitions, and cellular control appears to be an important prerequisite towards developing new drugs that intervenein the aggregation process.

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  MILLER, Keith E.

  Associate Professor
  Phone: 303-871-7721
  Email: kmiller3@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/kmiller3

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The research interests of the Miller group are very interdisciplinary in nature. They can be broadly defined in three major areas: 1) fundamental and applied research in separation sciences with applications focused in environmental contaminants, 2) research in water treatment technology focused in novel sorbent preparation and wet-oxidation for the removal of chemicals of concern from wastewaters (agricultural, industrial and municipal), and 3) development of analytical techniques for the analysis of food contaminants.

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  MURUGAVERL, Balsingham

  Senior Lecturer
  Phone 303-871-2941
  Email: bmurugav@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/bmurugav

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  I teach a variety of courses from freshman to graduate level while being the director of undergraduate laboratories. I also volunteer as the manager of the mass spectrometry facilities. My research interests are applied in nature, like to find solutions to immediate real life scientific problems. One of my current researches involves the development of superior chlorine resistant reverse osmosis membrane for water purification. "Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink", can apply as much to countries and societies without fresh water supply to military operations. Development of advanced membranes with chlorine resistance along with enhanced water flux and salt rejection requires more comprehensive understanding of the molecular level mechanisms of structure property relationships. This involves; synthesis of novel monomers and polymers, use of state-of the- art characterization techniques and field testing. Our systematic approach for this problem has guided us to the creation of a newer polyamide RO membrane with superior chlorine resistance and RO properties. A patent has been granted for this invention.

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  PEGAN, Scott

  Assistant Professor
  Phone: 303-871-2533
  Email: scott.pegan@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/spegan

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The Pegan laboratory's research goal is to gain a greater understanding of the mammalian innate immune response and how it is modulated, as well as develop new therapeutic templates for emerging diseases. Our on-going intent is to investigate the anti-viral type I response through the structural and kinetic study of proteases and ligases involved in the immune response signaling pathway. Through this research a better understanding of the role these proteins play in cellular regulation of the innate anti-viral immune response will occur. This insight will allow us to pioneer treatments for viral infection as well as autoimmune and cancer disorders. In addition, we also intend to seek new antibiotic templates for Tuberculosis using structure based drug design and high-throughput screening.

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  PURSE, Byron

  Assistant Professor
  Phone: 303-871-2937
  Email: byron.purse@du.edu
   

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  The research interests of the Purse group are centered on supramolecular chemistry and catalysis. We are designing and synthesizing cavity-containing molecules that can partially or fully surround smaller molecules and be used to control chemical reactions. A major goal is to develop improved, modular approaches to this chemistry that simplify the application of supramolecular catalysis to reactions that have been difficult to address using classical catalysis. As part of these efforts, we seek to address fundamental questions on the role of flexible molecular structures in achieving fine control of reactions and in making subtle discriminations in molecular recognition. Students working on these projects gain expertise in the techniques of molecular design, organic synthesis and physical organic chemistry, and contribute to our growing knowledge of how chemical structure gives rise to properties

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  WELLS, Todd

  Lecturer
  Email: towells@du.edu
  Phone: 303-871-2439

Staff

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  BISHOP, Gary A.

  Research Associate
  Email: gbishop@du.edu
  Phone: 303-871-2584
   

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  Donald Stedman and Gary Bishop work together at the leading edge of technology which they invented, and patented, to measure the emissions of motor vehicles as they drive by. The remote sensing system monitors various vehicle emissions in a realistic on-road situation, at a rate of 5,000 readings per day. On-road remote sensing generates large data bases of emissions measurements which we use toinvestigate the effectiveness of the various government programs that attempt to reduce motor vehicle emissions. We have monitored over three million motor vehicles in twenty countries, and the list continues to expand.

Emeritus Faculty

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  HORNBACK, Joseph

  Professor
  Phone: 303-871-2981
  Email: jhornbac@du.edu
  http://portfolio.du.edu/jhornbac

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  am updating my textbook "Organic Chemistry", second edition.

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  SMITH, Dwight M.M

  Research Professor and Chancellor Emeritus
  Phone: 303-871-2938
  Email: dwismith@du.edu
   

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  Professor Smith’s research is directed toward several aspects of fossil fuel combustion. Much of that work has resulted in an extensive body of knowledge on the chemical and physical properties (structure and reactivity) of particulate black carbon (BC) emissions. That knowledge underpins collaborative research with the Webb Waring Institute (UCDHSC) on the mechanisms of oxidative stress and inflammation created by carbonaceous particle inhalation. Other aspects of the combustion-related research include the effects of designed fossil fuel additives on emissions and fuel efficiency.

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  STEDMAN, Donald H.

  Professor and Brainerd F. Phillipson Chair Emeritus
  Phone: 303-871-2850
  Email: dstedman@du.edu
  http://www.sign.du.edu

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  Donald Stedman and Gary Bishop work together at the leading edge of technology which they invented, and patented, to measure the emissions of motor vehicles as they drive by. The remote sensing system monitors various vehicle emissions in a realistic on-road situation, at a rate of 5,000 readings per day. On-road remote sensing generates large data bases of emissions measurements which we use to investigate the effectiveness of the various government programs that attempt to reduce motor vehicle emissions. We have monitored over three million motor vehicles in twenty countries, and the list continues to expand.

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  TERNAY, Andrew L.

  Research Professor Emeritus
  Phone: 303-871-2986
  Email: aternay@du.edu

  
  

  BACKGROUND
  Worked with Petr Kikilo on medical countermeasures to chemical, biological and nuclear weapons (WMDs). The issues examined include, but are not limited to, cyanide poisoning and botulism. Educational materials for the medical community include chapters in Chemical Warfare Agents. 2nd Ed, CRC Press, 2008 (Ch 1: "Brief History and Use of Chemical Warfare Agents in Warfare and Terrorism" and "Chemistry of Chemical Warfare Agents"). The book "The Language of Nightmares" (2003) has been written to educate a range of less-technically trained individuals, including media representatives, educators, nurses, politicians, and law enforcement about some of the terms associated with terrorims and WMDs.