Chemical Biology
In this era of whole-genome science, we are discovering macromolecules far more rapidly than we can determine their function. Researchers in our department are developing chemical tools to study macromolecular function and cell biology. In the context of large protein or RNA molecules with tens to hundreds of thousands of atoms, it is now possible to change single atoms, rendering macromolecular science part of the realm of organic and physical organic chemistry.
In addition, we develop synthetic compounds to inhibit cellular processes and deliver therapeutics to specific targets. Thus students have the unique opportunity to bring physical and chemical methods to bear on the molecules of life, enabling them to probe the molecular basis of cellular function at an unprecedented level of depth.
Crosson, Sean - Assistant ProfessorDeciphering the Structure, Function, and Topology of Microbial Signaling Systems
Greene, Geoffrey - ProfessorSteroid hormone regulation of gene networks in reproductive tissues and cancers. Structure and function of nuclear receptors.
Keenan, Robert - Assistant ProfessorStructural biology and directed evolution.
Kent, Stephen - ProfessorApplication of chemistry to the study of proteins. Chemical protein synthesis. Protein mass spectrometry. Functional Proteomics. Mechanism of enzyme catalysis.
Kossiakoff, Anthony - ProfessorStructure and function of hormone-receptor interactions, enzyme-inhibitor interfaces, and synthetic proteins.
Makinen, Marvin - ProfessorElectron magnetic resonance; enzyme mechanisms; metalloenzymes; molecular dynamics; structural basis of enzyme action.
Piccirilli, Joseph - Associate ProfessorChemistry/biochemistry of nucleic acids; structure and mechanism of ribozymes (catalytic RNA); bioorganic chemistry.
Rock, Ronald - Assistant ProfessorMolecular motors; cytoskeletal organization; single-molecule biophysics
Roux, Benoit - ProfessorTheoretical and computational studies of the structure, dynamics and function of biological macromolecular systems.