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Title: Isolation and Semi-synthesis of Marine Diterpenoids.
Creator: Scesa, Paul D., West, Lyndon, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: Natural products play a historical role in the discovery of medicine but present unique challenges for chemical isolation, identification and production. In this work we describe the identification of twenty novel diterpenoids. These were isolated by use of chromatography, and the structures determined by spectroscopic methods, primarily 1D and 2D NMR. Six of these possess unprecedented diterpenoid skeletons and two of them show significant growth inhibitory effects on cancer cell lines in...
Show moreNatural products play a historical role in the discovery of medicine but present unique challenges for chemical isolation, identification and production. In this work we describe the identification of twenty novel diterpenoids. These were isolated by use of chromatography, and the structures determined by spectroscopic methods, primarily 1D and 2D NMR. Six of these possess unprecedented diterpenoid skeletons and two of them show significant growth inhibitory effects on cancer cell lines in vitro (GI50 < 10 μM). The biomimetic semisynthesis of diterpendoids and analogues is also presented. Access to the bielschowskyane carbon skeleton by dearomatization of a furanocembranoid precursor is described. Highlights include a stereoselective alkene epoxidation, a novel kinetic furan dearomatization method, and an efficient [2+2] photochemical cycloaddition. The role of conformational steering was studied spectroscopically using VT 1H-NMR and NOESY as well as quantum chemical calculations at the DFT level of theory. We also disclose a biomimetic synthesis of providencin using a photochemical Norrish-Yang cyclization. This provided the absolute configuration by chemical correlation with the precursor bipinnatin E, the latter determined by x-ray diffraction. An unexpected, regioisomeric byproduct was observed and a possible mechanism is proposed. A biomimetic synthesis of the diterpene alkaloid aceropterine is also described, using an epoxidation-rearrangement cascade. This work led to a revised structure of aceropterine, formulated by spectroscopic methods. Finally, the isolation and structure elucidation of a novel, cyclic lipopeptide from Pseudomonas sp. is described. The compound was obtained using a unique antibiotic crowd sourcing approach and the structure determined by spectroscopic methods and advanced Marfey’s analysis.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013539
Subject Headings: Marine natural products, Diterpenoids, Biomimetics
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Synthesis of Fluorogenic Probes Specific for Matrix Metalloproteinase 13.
Creator: Ibrahim, Mariam, Fields, Gregg B., Leventouri, Theodora, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: Matrix Metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) belongs to a large family of proteolytic enzymes which are characterized by their ability to degrade the extracellular matrix components. MMP-13 appears to have a critical role in tumor invasion and metastasis. In this study, several fluorogenic probes specific for MMP-13 were designed and characterized. These synthesized probes could be modified with chelators to be applied for imaging MMP-13 in breast cancer and/or multiple myeloma models. The activity...
Show moreMatrix Metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13) belongs to a large family of proteolytic enzymes which are characterized by their ability to degrade the extracellular matrix components. MMP-13 appears to have a critical role in tumor invasion and metastasis. In this study, several fluorogenic probes specific for MMP-13 were designed and characterized. These synthesized probes could be modified with chelators to be applied for imaging MMP-13 in breast cancer and/or multiple myeloma models. The activity and selectivity of MMP-13 and other MMPs against these probes were studied through two approaches. It was found that these probes were cleaved by all MMPs, but MMP-13 showed the highest activity and selectivity towards these peptides.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013507
Subject Headings: Matrix Metalloproteinases, Peptides, Fluorogenic probes
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: HUMAN CALCITONIN: AN INVESTIGATION OF AMYLOID FORMATION AND INHIBITION.
Creator: Lantz, Richard, Du, Deguo, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: Human calcitonin (hCT) is a peptide hormone that is produced by the thyroid gland where it regulates blood calcium and stimulates bone formation. However, increased concentrations can cause hCT to aggregate into amyloid fibrils where they can cause cellular toxicity. In this dissertation, we investigated the role of the N-terminal intramolecular disulfide bond, the effects cholesterol derivatives, the inhibitory effects of a group of polyphenolic molecules, and membrane interactions on hCT...
Show moreHuman calcitonin (hCT) is a peptide hormone that is produced by the thyroid gland where it regulates blood calcium and stimulates bone formation. However, increased concentrations can cause hCT to aggregate into amyloid fibrils where they can cause cellular toxicity. In this dissertation, we investigated the role of the N-terminal intramolecular disulfide bond, the effects cholesterol derivatives, the inhibitory effects of a group of polyphenolic molecules, and membrane interactions on hCT amyloid formation. To better understand hCT amyloid formation, we investigated the role of the N-terminal intramolecular disulfide bond has on the aggregation kinetics of hCT. Our results demonstrated that the presence of the disulfide bond is key to the formation of the oligomeric nucleus that is needed for amyloid formation. We also investigated the role of cholesterol, cholesterol sulfate, and 3β-[N-(dimethylaminoethane)carbamoyl]-cholesterol (DC-cholesterol) in moderating hCT fibril formation. We showed that cholesterol does not significantly affect hCT fibrillization while high concentrations of cholesterol sulfate has a moderate inhibiting effect. However, DC-cholesterol strongly inhibits hCT fibril formation in a concentration-dependent manner suggesting the role of electrostatic and hydrogen bonding interactions have in moderating the interactivity between hCT and the surface of DC-cholesterol vesicles. We also probed the inhibitory effects of a group of polyphenolic molecules on hCT fibril formation. Our results showed that molecules containing vicinal hydroxyl groups on the phenyl ring effectively inhibits hCT fibril formation though a plausible covalent linkage between the oxidized polyphenol and hCT.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013514
Subject Headings: Calcitonin, Amyloid
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: INVESTIGATING THE AMYLOIDOGENESIS OF A PRION PEPTIDE (106-128).
Creator: Regmi, Deepika, Du, Deguo, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: The misfolding of native, cellular prion protein (PrPc) to a conformationally altered pathogenic isoform, designated scrapie PrPsc, is the main molecular process involved in the pathogenesis of prion diseases. Prion diseases are marked by the accumulation of conformationally modified forms of cellular prion protein. An N-terminal portion of the prion protein, PrP (106-128), is a 23-residue peptide fragment and is characterized by an amphipathic structure with two domains: a hydrophilic N...
Show moreThe misfolding of native, cellular prion protein (PrPc) to a conformationally altered pathogenic isoform, designated scrapie PrPsc, is the main molecular process involved in the pathogenesis of prion diseases. Prion diseases are marked by the accumulation of conformationally modified forms of cellular prion protein. An N-terminal portion of the prion protein, PrP (106-128), is a 23-residue peptide fragment and is characterized by an amphipathic structure with two domains: a hydrophilic N-terminal domain and a hydrophobic C-terminal domain. In this study, the aggregation characteristics of the PrP (106-128) peptide were investigated using a combination of biophysical approaches. We investigated the effect of different factors including concentrations, pH, and metal ions, on the aggregation of the peptide. Our results demonstrated that the peptide steadily aggregates at concentrations higher than 25 M. The aggregation propensity and fibril formation is higher at pH 7.4 and pH 8.1, and the aggregation is inhibited at pH lower than 6. Furthermore, our results indicate that the Cu2+ has much less effect on the peptide amyloidogenesis, while Zn2+ has a significant influence on the PrP (106-128) amyloidogenesis. We further presented a systematic analysis of the impact of phospholipid liposomes of 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (POPC) and 1-palmitoyl-2-oleoyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho-(1’-racglycerol) (POPG) in the absence or presence of cholesterol, on the amyloidogenesis of PrP (106-128). The results showed that POPC vesicles does not significantly influence the aggregation kinetics of the peptide. However, the anionic lipid POPG delays the aggregation in a concentration-dependent manner, whereas the addition of POPG with the cholesterol shows fast kinetics of fibrillization, thus reducing the lag time of the aggregation kinetics. We also monitored the effect of cholesterol and its derivatives including cholesterol-SO4 and DC-cholesterol on PrP (106-128) amyloidogenesis. Our results showed that the cholesterol inhibits the peptide aggregation and delays the formation of fibrils in a concentration-dependent manner. Cholesterol-SO4 dramatically facilitates the aggregation at high concentrations but has the potential to slow down the fibrillization at low concentrations, whereas cationic DC-cholesterol vesicles can effectively inhibit peptide fibril formation at high concentrations.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013565
Subject Headings: Prion Diseases, Prions--pathogenicity, Amyloid, Peptides, Prions
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A STUDY ON THE CLINICAL RELEVANCE OF METALLOPROTEINASE INHIBITION.
Creator: Onwuha-Ekpete, Lillian, Fields, Gregg, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: The Metzincins are a superfamily of zinc-dependent endopeptidases associated with the regulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Their members include A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin Motifs (ADAMTSs), A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinases (ADAMs), and the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Metzincins exhibit diverse functions associated with both physiological and pathological states that include the proteolytic degradation of the ECM, regulation of various growth...
Show moreThe Metzincins are a superfamily of zinc-dependent endopeptidases associated with the regulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Their members include A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinase with Thrombospondin Motifs (ADAMTSs), A Disintegrin and Metalloproteinases (ADAMs), and the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Metzincins exhibit diverse functions associated with both physiological and pathological states that include the proteolytic degradation of the ECM, regulation of various growth factors, cell surface receptors, and chemokines, and mediation of biological functions such as extravasation, survival, and proliferation. In pathological conditions such as cancer associated with chronic inflammation and multiple sclerosis associated with neurodegeneration, dysregulation of Metzincin activities are a hallmark of disease progression and severity. Hence, Metzincins are therapeutic targets for various disease states and research into optimal Metzincin inhibitor design is an ongoing exploit.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013615
Subject Headings: Matrix Metalloproteinase 2, Matrix Metalloproteinase 9, T cells, Immunology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: PHOSPHORUS SEQUESTRATION AND BIOREMEDIATION: PHOSPHORUS-31 NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE SPECTROSCOPY.
Creator: Duersch, Bobby G., Louda, J. William, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: Eutrophication is an increase in primary plant nutrients (Nitrogen [N] and Phosphorus [P]) in oceans, estuaries and lakes. The consequences of eutrophication are harmful algal blooms (HABs), resulting in algal toxin production and the depletion of oxygen as the extensive biomass decays. P is often the limiting nutrient and is viewed as a significant environmental problem. Most of the excess P that enters aquatic ecosystems originates from anthropogenic sources such as fertilizers, sewage,...
Show moreEutrophication is an increase in primary plant nutrients (Nitrogen [N] and Phosphorus [P]) in oceans, estuaries and lakes. The consequences of eutrophication are harmful algal blooms (HABs), resulting in algal toxin production and the depletion of oxygen as the extensive biomass decays. P is often the limiting nutrient and is viewed as a significant environmental problem. Most of the excess P that enters aquatic ecosystems originates from anthropogenic sources such as fertilizers, sewage, animal wastes, compost, crop residues, and wastewater. Over time, one of the main reservoirs of P becomes organic P (Po). We investigated the chemical nature and dynamics of P in cyanobacteria, horse manure, stormwater treatment areas, and rice fields. To better understand the chemical nature of P, the identification of specific P compounds was required, which was achieved through 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. We investigated how paramagnetic metals and quadrupolar nuclei cause severe line broadening, peak shifts, and decreased the signal to noise ratio. Results revealed that certain Po forms are readily bioavailable to Microcystis aeruginosa. Additionally, the potential heterotrophic use of the organic portion (e.g., glucose, glycerol) of these P compounds are indicated for the growth and persistence of Microcystis aeruginosa. We showed that the cultivation of rice (Oryza sativa L.) had been found to effectively reduce P from agrarian soil and water through plant uptake and, therefore, minimizing downstream eutrophication. Soil, water, sugarcane, and rice plants at two different stages were analyzed for twelve different elements. Finally, we examined how a “relic” agrarian ditch in Stormwater Treatment Area 1 East (STA-1E) can be used for the retention and sequestration of P and other nutrients. The STAs were established to capture P from agricultural and other sources before reaching the Everglades. Retained P is primarily stored in the wetland soils and sediments, generated through a collection of interrelated physical, chemical, and biological processes.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013594
Subject Headings: Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Eutrophication, Phosphorus--Environmental aspects, Bioremediation
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: THE ROLE OF MATRIX METALLOPROTEINASE-28 IN HEALTH AND DISEASE.
Creator: Tokmina-Roszyk, Dorota, Fields, Gregg B., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: Matrix Metalloproteinase-28 (MMP-28) is the newest and least characterized member of MMP family. To date several potential substrate candidates for MMP-28 have been proposed but no in vivo substrates for this enzyme were confirmed. In the central nervous system (CNS) MMP-28 is believed to be important factor during myelination of the developing nervous system as well as during remyelination that follows neuronal injury. On the other hand, MMP-28 has been found in actively demyelinating...
Show moreMatrix Metalloproteinase-28 (MMP-28) is the newest and least characterized member of MMP family. To date several potential substrate candidates for MMP-28 have been proposed but no in vivo substrates for this enzyme were confirmed. In the central nervous system (CNS) MMP-28 is believed to be important factor during myelination of the developing nervous system as well as during remyelination that follows neuronal injury. On the other hand, MMP-28 has been found in actively demyelinating lesions in both experimental autoimmune encephalopathy (EAE) and multiple sclerosis patients suggesting its possible role in pathological events associated with autoimmune neurodegenerative processes. In addition, MMP-28 has been linked to modulation of immune response and activation of macrophages which presents another role of this enzyme in autoimmune pathologies. In the study described herein, MMP-28 has been shown to affect myelin composition and appearance, mitochondrial protein content, and vesicular transport proteins. Moreover, the decrease in myelin basic protein quantity observed in healthy MMP-28KO animals affected the myelin staining intensity in various brain regions including corpus callous. Cellular energetic studies did not reveal differences in mitochondrial function in MMP-28KO animals and no difference in reactive oxygen species was observed. In the EAE model, MMP-28 deletion increased the occurrence of atypical form of EAE characterized by increased inflammation of arbor vitae of the brain. In addition, MMP-28 deletion decreased the inflammatory infiltrates present in brains obtained from EAE animals. Lastly, MMP-28 has been shown to affect cellular energetics and activation of bone marrow derived macrophages during the initial stages and after 24 h activation. In addition, MMP-28 deletion increased proinflammatory cytokines and receptors CD86 and iNOS found in M1 polarized macrophages.
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Date Issued: 2020
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013601
Subject Headings: Matrix Metalloproteinases, Multiple sclerosis, Neurodegenerative disease
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: MONITORING COLLAGENOLYSIS UTILIZING TRIPLE HELICAL PEPTIDE PROBES.
Creator: Tokmina-Roszyk, Michal, Fields, Gregg B., Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: Collagen is the major structural scaffold in the body and serves as barrier between tissues, and thus its turnover is tightly regulated. Collagen triple-helical structure renders it resistant to general proteolysis. Several proteases are capable of cleaving the triplehelical regions of collagen, including several mammalian matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and bacterial collagenases. MMP-mediated collagenolysis is associated with numerous diseases and some bacterial collagenases have found...
Show moreCollagen is the major structural scaffold in the body and serves as barrier between tissues, and thus its turnover is tightly regulated. Collagen triple-helical structure renders it resistant to general proteolysis. Several proteases are capable of cleaving the triplehelical regions of collagen, including several mammalian matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and bacterial collagenases. MMP-mediated collagenolysis is associated with numerous diseases and some bacterial collagenases have found clinical application use due to their efficiency in the hydrolysis of the collagen triple-helix. A selective Förster resonance energy transfer triple-helical peptide (fTHP) probe for monitoring the activity of Clostridial collagenase has been developed. The fTHP [sequence: Gly-mep-Flp-(Glyvi Pro-Hyp)4-Gly-Lys(Mca)-Thr-Gly-Pro-Leu-Gly-Pro-Pro-Gly-Lys(Dnp)-Ser-(Gly-Pro-Hyp)4-NH2] was stable at 37 °C and was efficiently hydrolyzed by bacterial collagenase (kcat/KM = 25,000 s -1 M-1) but not by clostripain, trypsin, neutral protease, thermolysin, or elastase. The bacterial collagenase fTHP assay can be utilized in applications where specific activity towards triple-helical collagen needs to be evaluated, such as isolation of cells from various tissues. An fTHP scaffold was also utilized to evaluate the sequence preferences of eight MMPs. Residues spanning from P3 to P11 investigated using a positional scanning synthetic combinatorial library. Deconvolution of the library data revealed distinct motifs for several MMPs and discrimination among closely related MMPs. The results of this study show that the P10 11 substrate play an important role in the collagenase-substrate interactions and that modifying these residues can drastically affect the affinity of MMPs towards THP substrates. The identified sequence preferences of MMPs will enable the design of selective triple-helical MMP probes that could be used for monitoring in vivo enzyme activity and enzyme-facilitated drug delivery.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013422
Subject Headings: Collagen, Peptides, Matrix Metalloproteinases, Microbial Collagenase, Molecular Probes
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: ANALYSIS OF COMPUTATIONAL METHODS FOR THE ELECTRONIC TRANSITIONS OF ISOBUTENE.
Creator: Garbaran, Avinash, Snyder, Patricia, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: To help determine the ideal computational method for the analysis of the π → π* region in ethylene, analysis of isobutene’s computational results versus previously obtained experimental results was performed. Several time-dependent DFT calculations were performed, with eleven functionals being paired with twelve basis sets. The LSDA functional with the cc-pVQZ basis set came the closest to experimental results, with calculated transitions at 50502 cm-1, 56484 cm-1, and 59594 cm-1 compared to...
Show moreTo help determine the ideal computational method for the analysis of the π → π* region in ethylene, analysis of isobutene’s computational results versus previously obtained experimental results was performed. Several time-dependent DFT calculations were performed, with eleven functionals being paired with twelve basis sets. The LSDA functional with the cc-pVQZ basis set came the closest to experimental results, with calculated transitions at 50502 cm-1, 56484 cm-1, and 59594 cm-1 compared to experimental transition at 49875 cm-1, 55277 cm-1, and 59944 cm-1 (difference of 1.258%, 2.184%, and 0.583%, respectively). With BVP86 cc-pVQZ, calculated transitions were at 51195 cm-1, 56541 cm-1, and 59984 cm-1 (difference of 2.647%, 2.288%, and 0.067%, respectively). While LSDA cc-pVQZ was the best, it was notable how close second place came, thus the inclusion of BVP86 cc-pVQZ.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013373
Subject Headings: Density functionals, Computational Chemistry, Ethylene--Analysis
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: ALLENYL ESTER BUILDING BLOCKS: THEIR APPLICATION TO THE SYNTHESIS OF BRIDGED BICYCLIC COMPOUNDS AND UTILITY AS PRENUCLEOPHILES IN THE DIASTEREOSELECTIVE FORMATION OF ALL-CARBON QUATERNARY ALDOL PRODUCTS.
Creator: Maki, Samantha, Lepore, Salvatore, Florida Atlantic University, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Abstract/Description: The present dissertation will be largely focused on the synthesis of various [3.2.1] bridged bicycles using allenyl esters. Chapter one will present the importance of various [3.n.1] bridged bicycles in medicinal chemistry. A three-step synthetic route will then be described on how to produce a small library of [3.n.1] bridged bicycles using allenyl esters in an annulation reaction. The [3.n.1] bicyclic diketones can then undergo Grob fragmentation to deliver highly functionalized medium...
Show moreThe present dissertation will be largely focused on the synthesis of various [3.2.1] bridged bicycles using allenyl esters. Chapter one will present the importance of various [3.n.1] bridged bicycles in medicinal chemistry. A three-step synthetic route will then be described on how to produce a small library of [3.n.1] bridged bicycles using allenyl esters in an annulation reaction. The [3.n.1] bicyclic diketones can then undergo Grob fragmentation to deliver highly functionalized medium sized rings. Studies towards the total synthesis of vitisinol D, a highly functionalized [3.2.1] bridged bicycle will be discussed. In chapter two, synthesis knowledge gleamed from chapter one will be used to create a model route to form simplified versions of vitisinol D, called resveramorphs. These resveramorphs are structurally similar to resveratrol but possess rigid three-dimensional configuration desired in drug design. The synthetic route to create a variety of resveramorphs will be reported. The sub-nanomolar results of various resveramorph compounds in a Drosophila melanogaster neural tissue model under oxidative stress will be reported. Chapter three will focus on the use of allenyl esters as prenucleophiles to produce triply diastereoselective β-hydroxy esters containing all carbon α-quaternary centers. The challenges in the opitmization of this novel reaction will be described. The relative stereochemistry of the β-hydroxy ester products will be presented using various techniques including X-ray crystallography, 1D NMR, 2D NMR, and force field calculations (MM2). A closed transition state mechanism will be proposed to describe the diastereoselectivity that is observed in the reaction. Additionally, a short indanone synthesis will be shown as a potential application for this novel reaction.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013391
Subject Headings: Bicyclic compounds, Esters, Diastereoisomers
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Chemical Studies of Caribbean Marine Organisms.
Creator: Vansach, Tifanie, West, Lyndon M., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: The projects described in this dissertation concentrated on investigating Caribbean species for qualitative and quantitative chemical differences. Chapter one includes a brief update on the status of natural products as drugs, a discussion of the biodiversity of Caribbean marine organisms as well as a discussion about the chemistry of algae and sponges. In chapter two, an experiment to test for possible effects of warmer, more acidic water and how that will impact coral reef organisms was...
Show moreThe projects described in this dissertation concentrated on investigating Caribbean species for qualitative and quantitative chemical differences. Chapter one includes a brief update on the status of natural products as drugs, a discussion of the biodiversity of Caribbean marine organisms as well as a discussion about the chemistry of algae and sponges. In chapter two, an experiment to test for possible effects of warmer, more acidic water and how that will impact coral reef organisms was conducted. Six common Caribbean coral reef sponge species were grown in seawater for 24 days ranging from values experienced at summer-maxima (temperature = 28 ºC; pH = 8.1) to those predicted for the year 2100 (T = 31 ºC; pH = 7.8). For each species, attachment rates, growth, and survival were similar between temperature and pH levels. Only two metabolite concentrations varied significantly between treatments but were similar to baseline levels. In chapter three, a chemical survey of Florida Keys algae was performed using MeOH extraction and HP-20 SPE with varying Me2CO:H2O solutions. 1H NMR spectra were collected for each fraction and analyzed for interesting signals. A Laurencia sp. was extracted and found to contain the known compound isodactylyne (61) with the structure determined using spectroscopic analyses. In chapter four, a Laurencia obtusa specimen was investigated to determine the compound causing oxygenated signals between 4.50 – 4.80 ppm in the 1H NMR spectra observed in chapter three. A large scale extraction and fractionation was performed and the compound was determined to be 1-O-palmitoyl-2-O-myristoyl-3-O-(6-sulfo-α- D-quinovo-pyranosyl)-glycerol (63). In chapter five, the isolation and structural elucidation of a new compound, furocaespitanenone (64) and two known compounds (10R)- and (10S)-10-O-methylfurocaespitanelactol 65 and 66, from a Laurencia sp. collected off of the Florida Keys using MeOH extraction and HP-20 column chromatography is described. A potential biosynthesis of 64 from furocaepsitane (68) is proposed.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013274
Subject Headings: Marine organisms, Caribbean, Algae--chemistry, Sponges--Caribbean Sea, Chemistry
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Role of the N-Terminal Hydrophilic Region of Amyloid Beta Peptide in Amyloidogenesis, Membrane Interaction and Toxicity Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Creator: Morris, Clifford M., Du, Deguo, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a deleterious neurodegenerative disease caused in major part by the aberrant processing and accumulation of amyloid beta peptides. In this dissertation, we systematically investigated the role of N-terminal region (NTR) residues of amyloid (1-40) (Aβ40) peptide in amyloidogenesis, lipid bilayer membrane interaction and damage, as well as neurotoxicity. Herein, we investigated the role of NTR residues on the aggregation and amyloid fibril formation process, to gain...
Show moreAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a deleterious neurodegenerative disease caused in major part by the aberrant processing and accumulation of amyloid beta peptides. In this dissertation, we systematically investigated the role of N-terminal region (NTR) residues of amyloid (1-40) (Aβ40) peptide in amyloidogenesis, lipid bilayer membrane interaction and damage, as well as neurotoxicity. Herein, we investigated the role of NTR residues on the aggregation and amyloid fibril formation process, to gain understanding on the electrostatic and hydrophobic constituents of the mechanism. This was achieved by substituting specific charged residues located in the NTR of Aβ40 and investigating their effects through a variety of techniques. We also investigated the role of NTR charged residues in their interaction with supported phospholipid bilayer membranes through the use of Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation (QCM-D) monitoring to gain insight on the mechanistic details of the interaction. To further understand the implications of substituting charged NTR residues on membrane interaction, pore formation and damage, we utilized a carboxyfluorescein dye leakage assay to quantify the membrane damage caused by Aβ40 and the NTR mutants. We also performed neurotoxicity assay with SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells to shed light on the effects of NTR substitutions on cellular toxicity. Finally, we synthesized a polymer, trimethyl chitosan (TMC), and utilized it as a polyelectrolyte monitor of electrostatic interactions occurring between TMC and the NTR of Aβ40. Our results demonstrate that the NTR charged residues of Aβ40 contribute significantly to the aggregation process, amyloidogenesis, and phospholipid membrane interaction and perturbation by means of electrostatic, thermodynamic and hydrophobic forces.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013246
Subject Headings: Alzheimer's disease, Amyloid beta-Peptides, Amyloid
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: SYNTHETIC AND MECHANISTIC STUDY OF ENANTIO- AND STEREOSELECTIVE HOUSE–MEINWALD REARRANGEMENT OF CONGESTED TRISUBSTITUTED SPIRO-EPOXIDES.
Creator: Jeedimalla, Nagalakshmi, Roche, Stephane P., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: Published Content: Jeedimalla, N.; Jacquet, C.; Bahneva, D.; Youte Tendoung, J.-J.; Roche, S. P. J. Org. Chem. 2018, 83, 12357. The present thesis will be focused on the study of House-Meinwald Rearrangement (HMR) reactions for the congested trisubstituted spiro-epoxide molecules. Including their regio-selective, chemo-selective, enantio- selective selective and stereo-selectivity’s will be discussed in detailed by the mechanistic study approach of HMR reaction of trisubstituted spiro...
Show morePublished Content: Jeedimalla, N.; Jacquet, C.; Bahneva, D.; Youte Tendoung, J.-J.; Roche, S. P. J. Org. Chem. 2018, 83, 12357. The present thesis will be focused on the study of House-Meinwald Rearrangement (HMR) reactions for the congested trisubstituted spiro-epoxide molecules. Including their regio-selective, chemo-selective, enantio- selective selective and stereo-selectivity’s will be discussed in detailed by the mechanistic study approach of HMR reaction of trisubstituted spiro-epoxides. Chapter 1 will present the efforts towards the biomimetic total synthesis of meroterpenoid natural product (+)-liphagal, which possess a recognizable biological activity. The shortcomings associated with its stereochemical assignment, and also the revision of stereochemical assignment of siphonodictyal B, through which the biosynthesis of (+)-liphagal was proposed were discussed. Chapter 2 will focus on the study of regio and chemoselective HMR reaction. In addition, a three-step sequence for the synthesis of α-arylated cyclohexanones and the most challenging cycloheptanones is reported. First, an efficient one-pot synthesis of β, β’-disubstituted benzylidene cycloalkanes using the palladium-catalyzed Barluenga reaction from readily available feedstock chemicals is described. Second, an epoxidation followed by the HMR of spiro-epoxides is reported to produce a number of α -arylated cycloalkanones upon the ring expansion. Reactions catalyzed by bismuth triflate underwent quasi-exclusively ring expansion for all substrates (electronically poor and rich), demonstrating the difficulty to achieve the ring enlargement for electron deficient spiro-epoxides. On the other hand, via catalysis with aluminium trichloride the rearrangement proceeded typically in high yields and with remarkable regioselectivity. In this case, a switch of regioselectivity was achieved for spiro-epoxides with electron-withdrawing substituents which enabled this method to be successfully extended to some chemo specific arene shifts and it can also synthesize aldehydes derivatives bearing a α-quaternary carbon.
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Date Issued: 2019
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013320
Subject Headings: Epoxy compounds, Epoxides, Biomimetic Materials--chemical synthesis
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Methodologies Towards One Pot Synthesis of α-Arylated Amino Esters And Applications in Total Synthesis.
Creator: Samanta, Shyam S., Roche, Stephane P., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: In this dissertation, we discuss the development of a synthetic method to functionalize various α-haloglycine esters, as key precursors to a large variety of non-proteinogenic α-amino acids (Xaas). At first, we discovered a very practical and high yielding acetyl chloride-mediated cascade reaction to synthesize α-arylated amino esters in one-pot. In this multicomponent reaction (MCR), a primary carbamate was condensed with a glyoxylate, followed by an in situ halogenation which proved...
Show moreIn this dissertation, we discuss the development of a synthetic method to functionalize various α-haloglycine esters, as key precursors to a large variety of non-proteinogenic α-amino acids (Xaas). At first, we discovered a very practical and high yielding acetyl chloride-mediated cascade reaction to synthesize α-arylated amino esters in one-pot. In this multicomponent reaction (MCR), a primary carbamate was condensed with a glyoxylate, followed by an in situ halogenation which proved essential to trigger the final Friedel−Crafts functionalization. After careful reaction optimization, a plethora of arene nucleophiles were reacted with high regioselectively in CHCl3 at low temperatures (Method A) while less activated arenes reacted more cleanly in CH3CN and at higher temperatures (Method B). To broaden the scope of this reaction to acid sensitive nucleophiles, a one-pot reaction was designed via evaporation of all acid by-products at the α-haloglycine stage. The anion-binding Schreiner’s thiourea catalyst proved to be extremely efficient to promote this complementary approach (Method C) which relies on the chloride leaving group activation by the catalyst to assist the functionalization stage and deliver the α-amino ester product. In the second chapter, some highly practical and efficient preparations of α-haloglycine esters in one-pot have been developed to generate useful precursors of non-proteinogenic α-amino esters. Also, a mild and unique AcOH(cat.)/AcCl system was found to promote an autocatalytic-like condensation/deoxy halogenation and facilitate the multicomponent assembly of non-proteinogenic α-amino esters. Friedel–Crafts reaction between α-chloroglycine and N-methylindole have been studied in details to understand the mechanistic intricacy of this reaction. Our findings through the initial kinetic profiling support that the arylation likely proceeds via a SN1-like (or SN2C+) mechanism. In third chapter, we discuss the development of the most challenging α,α-disubstituted amino esters in a multicomponent fashion. Our results highlight that the MCR proceeds via the formation of an enamide intermediate, which is further tautomerized to corresponding iminium to produce the desired product. In collaboration with Eli Lilly at the Automated Synthesis Laboratory (ASL), we have developed silver (I) salts mediated Friedel–Crafts reaction for synthesis of α-trifluoromethylated α-amino esters on a fully automatized robot.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013160
Subject Headings: Esters, Synthesis, Amino Acids
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Implementation of Raman Spectroscopy into First Year Undergraduate Chemistry Curriculum.
Creator: Hyvarinen, Satu, Rezler, Evonne, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: Raman spectroscopy based activities were developed and implemented into the first year chemistry undergraduate curriculum. The implementation of these experiences and experiments and the utility of Raman spectroscopy as a teaching tool to convey anchoring chemistry concepts using a hands-on Raman spectroscopy based approach are discussed. Fundamental principles of chemistry, such as the interaction of light with matter, molecular bonding, equilibrium, and acid base reactions are facilitated...
Show moreRaman spectroscopy based activities were developed and implemented into the first year chemistry undergraduate curriculum. The implementation of these experiences and experiments and the utility of Raman spectroscopy as a teaching tool to convey anchoring chemistry concepts using a hands-on Raman spectroscopy based approach are discussed. Fundamental principles of chemistry, such as the interaction of light with matter, molecular bonding, equilibrium, and acid base reactions are facilitated through use of these Raman spectroscopy based experiments and experiences. An assessment of student learning gains as a result of participation in a Raman spectroscopy experience was also conducted and is discussed.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013017
Subject Headings: Raman spectroscopy, Undergraduate chemistry, Chemistry--Study and teaching
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Effects of Carbon Dioxide Levels on Growth and Pigments of Freshwater Algae.
Creator: Bermudez, Jeanne, Louda, J. W., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: This project was designed to investigate the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on the growth and pigment ratios (chemotaxonomy) of freshwater algal species typical to the south Florida surface waters. Green algae, diatoms, and cyanobacteria were cultured under 400 or 800 ppm CO3 in air for several weeks. Growth monitoring used a cell counter, hemocytometer, and chlorophyll fluorescence. Pigments were analyzed using HPLC-PDA. Experiments with certified CO2 concentrations (400, 600, 800,...
Show moreThis project was designed to investigate the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) levels on the growth and pigment ratios (chemotaxonomy) of freshwater algal species typical to the south Florida surface waters. Green algae, diatoms, and cyanobacteria were cultured under 400 or 800 ppm CO3 in air for several weeks. Growth monitoring used a cell counter, hemocytometer, and chlorophyll fluorescence. Pigments were analyzed using HPLC-PDA. Experiments with certified CO2 concentrations (400, 600, 800, 1200 ppm) were conducted with helium degassed ultrapure water and each of three culture media. Theoretical and experimental pH values with water matched exactly. However, each culture media proved to exhibit significant buffer capacity. Cell growth monitoring was problematic except for the cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa. That species responded to increased CO2 (800 ppm) with increased growth rates as predicted. The other species gave erratic results mainly due to difficulties in obtaining valid consistent cell counts.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013170
Subject Headings: Freshwater algae--Growth, Chemotaxonomy, Carbon dioxide, Pigments (Biology)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Synthesis and Bioactivity Investigation of Bridged Bicyclic Compounds and a Mechanistic Investigation of a Propargyl Hydrazine Cycloaddition Catalyzed by an Ammonium Salt.
Creator: St.Germain, Elijah, Lepore, Salvatore D., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: We report the development of a general route to the synthesis of [4.3.1], [3.3.1], an especially [3.2.1] bicyclic compounds structurally related to vitisinol D, a natural product. This allows for diastereoselective synthesis of bicyclic compounds with five adjacent chiral centers. This route was employed in a preliminary SAR investigation into the neuroprotectant effect of small molecules in an in vivo experiment measuring the degree of restorative effect of synaptic transmission in the...
Show moreWe report the development of a general route to the synthesis of [4.3.1], [3.3.1], an especially [3.2.1] bicyclic compounds structurally related to vitisinol D, a natural product. This allows for diastereoselective synthesis of bicyclic compounds with five adjacent chiral centers. This route was employed in a preliminary SAR investigation into the neuroprotectant effect of small molecules in an in vivo experiment measuring the degree of restorative effect of synaptic transmission in the neuromuscular junction of Drosophila melanogaster larvae under acute oxidative stress. One of the compounds exhibited intriguing potential as a neuroprotectant and outperformed resveratrol in restoring synaptic function under oxidative stress. The hypothesis that bridged bicyclic compounds may hold promise as drug scaffolds due to their conformational rigidity and ability to orient functional appendages in unique orientations is developed. The second focus is a mechanistic investigation into a tetrabutylammoniumcatalyzed cycloaddition as evidence of a novel ammonium-alkyne interaction. A carbamate nitrogen adds to a non-conjugated carbon–carbon triple bond under the action of an ammonium catalyst leading to a cyclic product. Studies in homogeneous systems suggest that the ammonium agent facilitates cyclitive nitrogen–carbon bond formation through a cation–π interaction with the alkyne unit. Using Raman spectroscopy, this cation–π interaction is directly observed for the first time. DFT modeling elucidated the mechanistic factors in this cycloaddition. A teaching experiment was developed based on this mechanistic investigation. Control experiments were employed to demonstrate the testing of two alternative mechanistic hypotheses. Cyclization reactions were performed with a soluble base (sodium phenoxide) with and without tetrabutylammonium bromide under homogeneous conditions. Students observed that ammonium salt accelerates the reaction. They were encouraged to develop a testable hypothesis for the role of the ammonium salt in the cyclization mechanism: typical phase transfer or other. IR spectroscopy was used to directly observe a dose dependent shift of the alkyne stretching mode due to a cation−π interaction. Undergraduates were able to employ the scientific method on a contemporary system and see how data are generated and interpreted to adjudicate between rival hypotheses in a way that emulates authentic and current research in a lab setting.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013100
Subject Headings: Bicyclic compounds., Ammonium salts., Cycloaddition Reaction.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Synthesis and Characterization of Organotin Polyamine Esters from Diglycine.
Creator: Slawek, Paul Peter, Carraher, Charles E., Haky, Jerome E., Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: This research is part of a long-term project aimed at elucidating important structural features, of both ligands and metals, that are needed to produce effective anti-cancer agents. The specific goal is the synthesis of organotin polymers containing amino acids, in this case the diamino acid diglycine. The desired materials were synthesized with percent yields ranging from 32-99%. The products were synthesized employing the interfacial polymerization technique. The polymers were then...
Show moreThis research is part of a long-term project aimed at elucidating important structural features, of both ligands and metals, that are needed to produce effective anti-cancer agents. The specific goal is the synthesis of organotin polymers containing amino acids, in this case the diamino acid diglycine. The desired materials were synthesized with percent yields ranging from 32-99%. The products were synthesized employing the interfacial polymerization technique. The polymers were then characterized utilizing the following physical characterization techniques: light scattering photometry (LS), Infrared spectroscopy (IR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and matrix assisted laser desorption mass spectroscopy (MALDI). Physical characterization showed evidence of formation of desired adducts in addition to data that was consistent with the formation of materials containing multiple repeat units. The materials were then analyzed for biological activity. The synthesized materials displayed the ability to inhibit tested cancer cell lines.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013158
Subject Headings: Organotin Compounds, Glycylglycine, Antineoplastic agents--Development
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Aggregation Inhibition and Detection of Alzheimer’s Amyloidogenic and Oligomeric Peptides.
Creator: Elbassal, Esmail A. E., Du, Deguo, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: Protein aggregation, oligomer and fibril formation is one of the dominant characteristics in the pathogenesis of a number of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Inhibition of toxic oligomer and fibril formation is one of the approaches to find potential drug candidates for AD. Additionally, early diagnosis of these amyloid species can provide mechanistic understanding of protein aggregation and thus can pave the way for preventing the onset of AD. The aim of this...
Show moreProtein aggregation, oligomer and fibril formation is one of the dominant characteristics in the pathogenesis of a number of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Inhibition of toxic oligomer and fibril formation is one of the approaches to find potential drug candidates for AD. Additionally, early diagnosis of these amyloid species can provide mechanistic understanding of protein aggregation and thus can pave the way for preventing the onset of AD. The aim of this dissertation was 1) to explore the effects of charged cholesterol derivatives on the aggregation kinetic behavior of Amyloid-β40 (Aβ40), 2) to probe Aβ40 oligomer and amyloid formation in vitro using gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), and 3) to monitor the kinetic effect of various natural product molecules on Aβ40 aggregation in vitro. In the first chapter, a general introduction about AD as an amyloidogenic disease, amyloid cascade hypothesis, and the manipulation of Aβ peptides aggregation kinetics using different approaches was presented. In the second chapter, we studied the effects of oppositely charged cholesterol derivatives on the aggregation kinetics of Aβ. In the third chapter, we developed a gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) assay to probe Aβ40 oligomers and amyloid formation. In chapter IV, we monitored the effects of various small molecules on the aggregation kinetics of Aβ40. In chapter V, we discussed the methods and experimental details.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00013009
Subject Headings: Alzheimer's disease, Amyloid beta-protein, Oligomers, Protein Aggregates, Neurodegenerative Diseases
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Characterization of Disulfide Constrained Natural Peptides.
Creator: Hoggard, Mickelene F., Cudic, Mare, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: The use of peptide drugs has gained popularity recently. Peptides are attractive drug targets due to their high specificity and potency towards their biological targets. A drawback for peptide drugs is a lack of stability for oral delivery. Two classes of disulfide-rich peptides, conotoxins and cyclotides, have been shown to have higher stability than linear peptides thanks to their disulfide connectivity. Conotoxins are present in the venom of cone snails, a carnivorous marine mollusk that...
Show moreThe use of peptide drugs has gained popularity recently. Peptides are attractive drug targets due to their high specificity and potency towards their biological targets. A drawback for peptide drugs is a lack of stability for oral delivery. Two classes of disulfide-rich peptides, conotoxins and cyclotides, have been shown to have higher stability than linear peptides thanks to their disulfide connectivity. Conotoxins are present in the venom of cone snails, a carnivorous marine mollusk that preys upon fish, worms, or other mollusks. Conotoxins are promising drugs leads with great prospects in the treatment of diseases and disorders such as chronic pain, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Cyclotides, which are cyclic cysteine knot containing peptides, isolated from the Violaceae (violet), Rubiaceae (coffee), and Cucurbitaceae (cucurbit) families and they have a wide range of biological activities, such as anti-HIV, uterotonic, and antimicrobial. P-superfamily framework IX conotoxins (C-C- C-CXC- C) contain the same cysteine framework, homologous sequences, and similar 3D structures to cyclotides. The knot containing conotoxins have been identified in several Conus species, but this work focuses on those from Conus brunneus, Conus purpurascens, and Conus gloriamaris. The cysteine knot motif of cyclotides and P-superfamily conotoxins is characterized by a cyclic backbone and six-conserved cysteine residues that form the three-disulfide bridges of the “knot”. This motif provides cyclotides and conotoxins with superior stability against thermal, chemical, and enzymatic degradation; marking them as potential frameworks for peptide drug delivery. Presented are details on the isolation of conotoxins and cyclotides, from Viola tricolor, and the characterization of their activity in the well-characterized Drosophila melanogaster giant fiber system (GFS) neuronal circuit, which contains GAP, acetylcholine, and glutamate synapses. The transcriptomes of two Conus brunneus specimens were assembled and mined for P-superfamily framework IX conotoxins. Eleven mature P-superfamily framework IX conotoxins were identified in the crude venom.
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Date Issued: 2018
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00005955
Subject Headings: Peptide drugs, Cyclotides, Conotoxins
Format: Document (PDF)

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