Evaluation of vaccine-mediated immune responses against Cryptococcus neoformans

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Christine Sayegh Biology
Advisor(s): Floyd Wormley Biology Natalia Castro Lopez Biology

Cryptococcus neoformans is a pathogenic fungus that can cause cryptococcosis, affecting the lungs and central nervous system with potentially morbid consequences. This pathogen is particularly aggressive in individuals with impaired T-cell function, such as those with AIDS or on immunosuppressive medications. There are currently no vaccines available for this pathogen and a limited arsenal of antifungals is available. Our lab has developed a C. neoformans strain that produces mouse IFN-ɣ, called H99ɣ, that induces protective immunity against subsequent infection with wild-type C. neoformans in mouse models of cryptococcosis. We aim to use variants of this strain to better understand the immune response against Cryptococcus and develop new therapies. In this study, our goal is to evaluate the efficacy of various newly developed C. neoformans vaccine mutants to induce protective immune responses against C. neoformans. RNA will be isolated from tissues extracted from mice immunized with the different C. neoformans strains: H99ɣ, LW10, LW10ɣ, sre1ΔLW10ɣ, and sgl1ΔLW10ɣ and the mRNA transcripts of immune cells responding to subsequent infection with C. neoformans evaluated. By using the information derived from these transcripts, we aim to identify key determinants of protection against cryptococcosis. Using the transcriptomic data, we can determine the best candidate to further evaluate for its capacity to elicit protective immune responses in immune-compromised hosts.

Investigating the Effects of Diet on Hepatic Gene Expression

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Mary Skrabanek Biology
Advisor(s): Michael Chumley Biology Gary Boehm Psychology
Location: SecondFloor, Table 5, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a growing health concern, affecting nearly 24% of U.S. adults. It is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver, often linked to obesity, insulin resistance, and poor dietary habits. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress play key roles in disease progression, with excessive saturated fat intake exacerbating liver damage. Genes involved in lipid metabolism, such as sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (Srebp1c) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (Pparγ), regulate fat storage in the liver and contribute to MAFLD development. Additionally, oxidative stress-related genes like nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) influence antioxidant defenses, impacting liver health. Our study investigates the effects of two dietary models—the Typical American Diet (TAD) and the Mediterranean Diet (MED)—on liver health. The TAD, high in saturated fats, promotes lipid accumulation and oxidative stress, while the MED, rich in unsaturated fats, may improve liver function by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage. Findings suggest that diet influences gene expression, affecting lipid metabolism and oxidative stress pathways. Understanding these mechanisms may help develop dietary strategies for MAFLD prevention, emphasizing the role of nutrition in liver health.

Investigating Breast Cancer-Associated Variants: From Bedside to Bench

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Jamison Speed Biology
Advisor(s): Mikaela Stewart Biology
Location: Basement, Table 3, Position 2, 1:45-3:45

Partner and Localizer of BRCA2 (PALB2) is a necessary linker protein between BRCA1 and BRCA2. In order to create this connection it interacts directly with BRCA1 via a coiled-coil domain in both proteins. Facilitating this linkage directs cells to fix double stranded DNA breaks (DSBs) through homologous recombination. The mutation L35P has been shown to disrupt this linkage forcing the cell to complete repair through alternate pathways that are not as accurate. This inaccuracy can lead to the accumulation of mutations and increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. The L35P variant within the coiled-coil domain of PALB2 has been linked with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. However, it is unknown if loss of leucine in the interface is causing the decrease in binding or if it is the introduction of a proline into the coiled-coil region that is destroying the secondary structure thereby inhibiting binding. We are studying five variants of unknown significance (VUS) from PALB2 that are within the coiled-coil and are also proline substitutions. One of these mutations is within the binding interface and the other four are on the backside of the coil. We are investigating the structure and BRCA1-interaction of these VUS to directly connect structural changes in the coil to functional deficiencies. Currently we have found that these proline variants are inhibiting binding with BRCA1 through measuring heat exchange with isothermal titration calorimetry. We also plan on evaluating these variants through circular dichroism as well to assess if the secondary structure of PALB2 is affected as well.

Phylogeny and biogeography of the Asian tropical blueberries of tribe Vaccinieae (Ericaceae)

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Maverick Tamayo Biology Peter Fritsch Biology Mathew Hale Biology
Advisor(s): Matthew Hale Biology
Location: Third Floor, Table 3, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

Malesia is a vast phytogeographic region in Southeast Asia, spanning roughly one-fifth of the world’s circumference and considered one of the most biodiverse regions of the world. It is divided into three subregions: Sahul, Sunda, and Wallacea, primarily distinguished by their geological history and differences in floristic composition. Research based on fossil-calibrated phylogenetic trees has begun to provide insights into the historical phytogeography of Malesia, specifically regarding the reciprocal migration of plant lineages across the Sunda and Sahul regions known as the “Sunda-Sahul floristic exchange (SSFE).” This study aims to test the SSFE hypothesis with the use of the Asian tropical blueberry clade of tribe Vaccinieae (Ericaceae). Silica-dried specimens from previous fieldwork, garden-grown plants of wild origin, and herbarium specimens were used to extract genomic DNA. The samples were sequenced with the Angiosperms353 bait set, and a dated phylogenomic tree was constructed, incorporating all available genomic data from online repositories. Divergence time analysis and ancestral area reconstruction was performed to test the hypotheses of the SSFE. This research will serve as a steppingstone towards resolving the phylogeny and evolutionary history of tribe Vaccinieae. It will also form a foundation for assessing the conservation status of micro-endemic and threatened Asian tropical blueberry species, especially in Malesia. Lastly, this study will highlight the crucial role of botanical gardens and herbaria as vital repositories of natural history collections.

Investigating the role of proteases in fertilization in the invasive zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha)

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Andy Taylor Biology
Advisor(s): Mike Misamore Biology

Zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) are an invasive bivalve of significant ecological and economic importance due to their widespread invasion and disruption of aquatic ecosystems and commercial infrastructure. Their ability to spread from the northern Great Lakes to the southern areas of the United States is due in large by their reproductive strategy. Zebra mussels release eggs and sperm into the water column where fertilization and subsequent larval development occurs. Two key steps in the fertilization process are the ability of sperm to bind and penetrate the egg surface and the ability of the egg to prevent more than one sperm from entering the egg (polyspermy). In many other species, proteases play a key role in these processes; however, there is there is variability between aquatic species, such that elucidating specific mechanisms is unique to individual organisms. Here, I investigate the potential role of proteases in sperm binding and entry. To discern these mechanisms in zebra mussels, I exposed fertilization processes to small-molecule inhibitors. Based on the observations of the phenotypic changes upon exposure, implications can be made to specific molecules or groups of molecules involved in Dreissena polymorpha sperm-egg interactions. These implications point to the further investigation and development of small-molecule inhibitors of Dreissena polymorpha fertilization.

Using dry plants and DNA to unravel the story ferns have to tell

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Lucia Vargas Biology
Advisor(s): Matt Hale Biology Alejandra Vasco Biology
Location: Basement, Table 1, Position 3, 11:30-1:30

Understanding and documenting the diversity and distribution of species on Earth is crucial, especially in the face of habitat loss and species extinction. Without this knowledge, we risk losing valuable understanding of the natural world, including species with ecological, medicinal, or economic significance. Ferns, one of the oldest lineages of land plants, still hold many scientific mysteries, particularly in tropical regions where diversity is high and under-explored.
Herbarium specimens—dried plants collected and preserved over centuries—serve as critical windows into the past, allowing botanists to study plant diversity across time and space. When combined with modern tools such as imaging and DNA analyses, these collections become powerful data sources for unraveling evolutionary relationships, discovering new species, and improving our understanding of biodiversity. Our research focuses on Elaphoglossum, one of the most diverse and taxonomically challenging fern genera. Using herbarium specimens, powerful microscopes, and molecular phylogenetic studies, we are conducting a systematic review of the Elaphoglossum dendricola clade, a group of Andean ferns. Our aims are to clarify species boundaries, uncover undescribed species, reconstruct evolutionary relationships, and evaluate the conservation status of these ferns.
This poster presents preliminary results and outlines future directions of our research in tropical ferns, highlighting the importance of integrating collections-based taxonomy and molecular phylogenetics to explore and preserve tropical fern diversity.

The Impact of Shoreline Distance on the Proportion of Aquatic Insects in Arctic Wolf Spider Diets

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Lance Viscioni-Wilson Biology Charlie Duethman Biology Sydney Hill Biology Ramsey Jennings Biology Chidi Mbagwu Biology Cami Middlebrooks Biology Ben Strang Biology David Wright Biology
Advisor(s): Matt Chumchal Biology
Location: SecondFloor, Table 6, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

Arctic wolf spiders (Pardosa glacialis) are dominant terrestrial predators in the High Arctic, yet the extent to which their diets are influenced by aquatic subsidies remains uncertain. Previous research suggests that aquatic insects do serve as a key food source for shoreline predators, transferring both nutrients and contaminants such at mercury (THg) from aquatic to terrestrial ecosystems. Aquatic insects have unique carbon (δ¹³C) and nitrogen (δ¹⁵N) isotopic signatures that differentiate them from terrestrial insects that allow for identification of aquatic-derived energy in terrestrial food webs. The purpose of this case study is to examine the stable isotope composition of P. glacialis collected at varying distances (0, 10m, and 35m) near a pond located in northwest Greenland to establish local food web dynamics and assess potential pathways of contaminant transfer. Understanding these dynamics will provide insight into how THg is distributed among trophic levels and across distances in riparian environments. P. glacialis were collected in traps placed at three distances from pond shoreline (0, 10m, and 35m). The specimens were then analyzed for THg and stable isotope ratios. We hypothesized that spiders collected closer to the shoreline will display isotopic values indicative of a more aquatic-based diet as well as higher THg concentrations. Conversely, with increasing distances from pond shoreline, we expect to see isotopic signatures suggestive of a more terrestrial diet and lower THg. Given mercury’s neurotoxic and bio accumulative properties, results of this study will provide insight not only into aquatic-terrestrial linkages in Arctic ecosystems but also the potential threats that the trophic movement of contaminants may pose to wildlife.

WHEN CANCER CELLS GO TO THE WARBURG EFFECT, WHERE DOES LACTATE GO? Exploring Lactate Metabolism in Cancer Cells

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Kha Vu Biology Xin Cai Biology Gurveer Kaur Biology
Advisor(s): Giridhar Akkaraju Biology
Location: Basement, Table 7, Position 1, 11:30-1:30

Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer, allowing tumor cells to sustain proliferation under varying nutrient and oxygen conditions. One of the most well-known adaptations is the Warburg effect, wherein cancer cells preferentially utilize glycolysis to generate ATP and produce lactate, even in the presence of oxygen. While lactate has long been considered a metabolic waste product, emerging studies suggest that it may have regulatory functions beyond energy production. In this study, we investigate how lactate influences the metabolic enzyme malate dehydrogenase 1 (MDH1), a key component of the malate-aspartate shuttle and a contributor to cytosolic NAD⁺ regeneration. Using CRISPR-mediated MDH1 knockout models, cell proliferation assays, a cell-free mitochondrial system, and direct enzymatic activity measurements, we demonstrate that lactate—both L- and D-enantiomers—activates MDH1. This activation is independent of lactate’s conventional metabolic conversion via lactate dehydrogenase. Notably, D-lactate, which mammalian cells cannot metabolize, produced similar effects to L-lactate, indicating a non-metabolic, potentially signaling-based mechanism. Structural modeling using AlphaFold2 further supports the presence of a putative lactate-binding site on MDH1. These findings suggest a novel paradigm in which lactate directly regulates mitochondrial metabolism, redefining its role in the Warburg effect and its contribution to cancer cell proliferation.

Comparing DC1s and DC2s Immune Response Against Cryptococcus neoformans

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Elizabeth West Biology
Advisor(s): Floyd Wormley Biology Natalia Castro Biology

Comparing DC1s and DC2s Immune Response Against Cryptococcus neoformans

Elizabeth West*, Natalia Castro Lopez, Floyd Wormley Jr.
Department of Biology, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX, USA

Abstract

Cryptococcus neoformans is a fungal pathogen that poses a threat to immunocompromised individuals, and there is currently no vaccine. Dendritic Cells (DCs) play a crucial role in the cell’s immune response and will be studied to determine an effective treatment. In this study, we will analyze the immune response of two groups of conventional dendritic cells (cDCs), cDC1s (CD103+, driven from GM-CSF + FLT3) and cDC2s (CD11B+, driven from GM-CSF) to determine their ability to produce a protective immune response against Cryptococcus neoformans. We grew bone marrow dendritic cells in the conditions stated above and then exposed to IFN-ɣ, cell wall extract (CWE), or both. After, we used a calcineurin (cna) knockout strain to simulate exposure to the wild-type strain, which allows us to analyze the cell’s immune response. RNA purification technique will be performed to isolate the RNA, which will then be analyzed via RT-PCR. We will analyze DC1s and DC2s responses by evaluating the transcripts, including NOS2, Arg1, and IL-2. This study will help us understand the role of DCs in the protective immune response. We hypothesize that DC1s (CD103+) will elicit a stronger Th1 response, increased by IFN-γ treatment compared to DC2s eliciting a different immune response. By comparing transcript expression levels of DC1s and DC2s, we can study the role of dendritic cell subsets in producing memory for protective immune response against Cryptococcus neoformans.

Fishy fear: the development of a predator avoidance assay for fathead minnows

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Catherine Wise Biology Kate Davis Environmental Sciences Lilli Gonzales Biology Justin Hunt Biology Zoie Munoz Biology Marisa Ross Psychology
Advisor(s): Marlo Jeffries Biology
Location: FirstFloor, Table 2, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

The fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas; FHMs) have been the most utilized small fish model in North American ecotoxicity assessments for decades. However, the behavior of FHMs across their lifespan remains poorly characterized relative to other small fish models. Given the growing recognition of the importance of evaluating ecologically-relevant behavioral endpoints in environmental monitoring, aquaculture, and ecotoxicology, there is a need to develop assays to assess such behaviors in fish across multiple life stages. One class of ecologically-relevant behaviors is predator avoidance behaviors, which hold importance for the survival and propagation of fish populations. While the predator avoidance behaviors of adult FHMs (e.g., shelter seeking/hiding, freezing) have been well documented, there has yet to be a comprehensive study characterizing the responses of larval FHMs to chemical predator stimuli. Thus, the present study aimed to develop a behavioral assay that assesses predator avoidance behaviors of FHMs across multiple life stages. The specific predator stimulus was alarm cue, a chemical released from damaged or injured epidermal club cells of FHMs to signal conspecifics of a predator attack. In turn, the objectives were to 1) verify that the use of alarm cue collected from pond-reared donors induced predator avoidance behaviors, as measured via ToxTrac, an open-source tracking software, in adult fathead minnows, and 2) develop a predator avoidance assay for use in 14 days post-hatch (dph) larval FHMs using the alarm cue from pond-reared donors verified in adult FHMs. Exposure of adult FHMs to alarm cue collected from pond-reared donors induced significant changes in the predator avoidance behaviors detected by ToxTrac, verifying its use as a predator stimulus for lab-reared FHMs. Moreover, this study represents the first characterization of the behavioral response of 14 dph FHMs to alarm cue from pond-reared donors, providing insight into the maturation of predator avoidance behaviors of FHMs. Future work may investigate the sensitivity of the larval predator avoidance assay to chemicals with known neurological effects to validate its use as an ecologically-relevant behavioral assay in an aquaculture, ecotoxicity, or environmental management context.

Quantifying the Impact: White Nose Syndrome and Bat Population Dynamics

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Hongzhen Wu Biology
Advisor(s): Jiao Jing Biology
Location: SecondFloor, Table 6, Position 3, 11:30-1:30

White-nose syndrome (WNS), caused by a fungus called Pseudogymnoascus destructans, has caused dramatic declines in North American bat populations, with mortality rates exceeding 90% in some species. WNS has spread widely, now to southern regions such as Texas, and presents new challenges for disease modeling due to differences in climate and bat hibernation behavior. This study developed a open patch epidemiological model integrating bat populations from the Northeastern United States to examine how migration and disease exposure affect population dynamics. By modifying a standard SIR model, we analyzed interactions between wild and robust bat genotypes at varying levels of migration and frequency of disease pulses. Preliminary findings suggest that increased migration favors robust genotypes, while frequent disease pulses initially favor robustness but may eventually penalize it if disease prevalence remains low. These insights enhance our understanding of regional disease dynamics and provide a framework for conservation strategies aimed at mitigating WNS-driven biodiversity loss.

DIRECT ARYLATION OF UNACTIVATED ARENE USING EARTH ABUNDANT IRON/TETRA-AZA MACROCYCLIC COMPLEX

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Tahmina Afroz Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Kayla Green Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: SecondFloor, Table 7, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

DIRECT ARYLATION OF UNACTIVATED ARENE USING EARTH ABUNDANT IRON/TETRA-AZA MACROCYCLIC COMPLEX
The development of sustainable catalytic systems for carbon–carbon bond formation is of critical importance in modern synthetic chemistry. This study presents an iron-based catalytic system employing tetra-aza macrocyclic ligands as a cost-effective and environmentally benign alternative to palladium in direct arylation reactions. Using [Fe²⁺L6(Cl)₂] as the catalyst and molecular oxygen as the terminal oxidant, the direct C(sp²)–C(sp²) coupling of pyrrole with substituted phenylboronic acids was achieved under mild conditions, yielding 2-phenylpyrrole and its derivatives with moderate efficiency (up to 62%). The catalyst displayed broad substrate scope and functional group tolerance, effectively accommodating halogen, nitro, alkyl, and methoxy substituents. Mechanistic studies excluded a radical-mediated pathway and instead supported a non-radical oxidative mechanism involving an iron(III)-hydroperoxo intermediate. These findings underscore the potential of earth-abundant iron complexes in sustainable cross-coupling chemistry and set the stage for further exploration in heterocycle functionalization and pharmaceutical scaffold development.

Towards a Comprehensive Benchmark of Quantum Mechanical pKa Prediction: Conformational Sampling, Model Solvent, Basis Set, Density Functional, and Empirical Corrections for the SAMPL7 Dataset

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Donatus Agbaglo Chemistry & Biochemistry Minh Ho Biology
Advisor(s): Benjamin Janesko Chemistry & Biochemistry

Fight Against Alzheimer’s: Developing a New Generation of Multifunctional Drug Therapeutics Using Pyridine-Containing Tetra-Aza Macrocycles

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Saba Anjum Chemistry & Biochemistry Shrikant Nilewar Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Kayla Green Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: Basement, Table 1, Position 1, 11:30-1:30

Oxidative stress is associated with the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s, but there are no approved drug therapeutics that effectively target oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s. The Green Research Group has previously synthesized and reported a pyridine-containing tetra-aza macrocycle, L2, which acts as a multifunctional antioxidant agent by targeting oxidative stress directly through radical scavenging and metal ion chelation as well as catalytically through activation of the Nrf2 pathway. While multiple preliminary studies conducted on L2 have confirmed its potent antioxidant activity, its high hydrophilicity results in reduced blood-brain barrier permeability, which is a concern when designing drug therapeutics for neurodegenerative diseases. It is hypothesized that incorporating a self-immolative linker onto L2 will result in increased blood-brain barrier permeability while maintaining antioxidant activity under physiological conditions.

Shape-shifting Molecules: The Search for Low Cost, Ring-shaped Drugs

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Grace Bobo Chemistry & Biochemistry Liam Claton Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Eric Simanek Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: Third Floor, Table 10, Position 1, 11:30-1:30

The shape of a drug will determine how it interacts in the body. For it to work, it must dissolve, be absorbed into the bloodstream, avoid breakdown, enter the cell and bind to its target. Each of these steps likely requires a different shape. The pharmaceutical industry has historically only focused on the shape required to bind the target. This research has identified molecules that can readily adopt multiple shapes. These ring-shaped molecules (called macrocycles) represent a new model for drug design. Usual drugs (ie ibuprofen) are small and interact with a specific target to stop a chemical reaction. Macrocycles can work by an additional mechanism. They are larger and can interfere with interactions between proteins but are still small enough to travel the body. The preparation of these macrocycles is inexpensive and quick, properties that are important for the pharmaceutical industry. This poster describes the design and synthesis of a macrocycle and an analysis of the shapes that it adopts.

BOILED-eggs and the Blood-Brain Barrier: How BOILED-egg Modeling Can Predict Permeability of Pyridine Macrocyclic Molecules to Combat Alzheimer's Disease

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Luke Chouteau Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Kayla Green Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: Third Floor, Table 5, Position 3, 11:30-1:30

Every 65 seconds, someone develops Alzheimer's disease, which is the seventh leading cause of death in the United States. A major barrier to potential therapeutics is the permeability of these molecules across the blood-brain barrier. We have developed small molecules with strong reactivity to combat the oxidative stress known to cause Alzheimer’s disease. However, the permeability is less than ideal. As a result, my goal is to produce a molecule that has enhanced permeability but retains the reactivity of the parent molecules. To achieve this, the BOILED-Egg model assessed different derivatives of our parent molecule, Py2N2. This model showed the differences in lipophilicity among different Py2N2 compounds and how they impact permeability into the blood-brain barrier and gastrointestinal tract. Background information on our parent molecule and its function regarding Alzheimer's development will be outlined to give a scope of what these compounds can target and how they function. Compounds with high lipophilicity reflected in the model will have schemes of synthetic synthesis for future directions.

Reimagined Route to Drug Discovery: Macrocyclization leads to 20 predicted and persistent products for chemical library development

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Liam Claton Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Eric Simanek Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: SecondFloor, Table 8, Position 3, 11:30-1:30

In the pursuit of new ways to develop libraries of compounds for pharmaceutical drug discovery, the utilization of a robust and tunable macrocycle synthetic scaffold has led to the discovery of persistent and structurally well-defined conformational isomers. Targeting these macrocycles that exist as an ensemble of preorganized conformations represents a compromise between the pursuit of flexible molecules of undefined structure and rigid molecules biased towards a single conformation. This system is based on the quantitative dimerization of a monomer to afford macrocycle. When a single monomer is used, six unique structures are obtained. When two monomers are used, twenty unique structures are obtained. These different structures (conformational isomers) are accessed via hindered bond rotation with a barrier of ~18 kcal/mol and are observable by ¬1H NMR. Current drug discovery methods heavily rely on screening large chemical libraries of small, ridged molecules against protein targets and typically sacrifice entropy in favor of stronger ligand-target binding. Using our system, synthesis of 50 monomers allows for the generation of a library of over 10,000 structurally unique macrocycles. The goal of this work is to provide new chemical libraries for drug discovery.

Testing the Fundamental Kinetic Properties of Anti-Aging, Antioxidant Active Ingredients for Skincare

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Nora Del Bosque Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Kayla Green Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: Basement, Table 5, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

EUK-134 is a manganese-salen complex widely used in anti-aging skincare formulations due to its potent antioxidant activity resulting from catalytic decomposition of reactive oxygen species. Despite its popularity, the fundamental kinetic properties that govern its efficacy and recyclability are not well understood, limiting its optimization in skincare products. As a result, the study presented here investigates the efficiency, sustained activity, and selectivity of EUK-134 in comparison to the Green lab ligand library by evaluating its turnover number (TON), turnover frequency (TOF), and reaction rate. Results indicate that while EUK-134 demonstrates high catalase-type activity and selectivity, the activity decreases with continuous exposure to H₂O₂, suggesting a need for re-application in real-world scenarios to achieve long-term protection. Additionally, selectivity studies show that peroxidase activity was observed, which may impact the stability of sensitive ingredients in formulations. These findings provide essential kinetic benchmarks to compare future small molecules and optimize EUK-134’s use in antioxidant skincare products. Without a clear understanding of these fundamental properties, we lack benchmarks to compare future small molecules that compete with EUK-134.

Spectrophotometric detection of PFAS in water using bovine serum albumin and tetraphenylporphyrintetrasulfonate

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Ngan Dinh Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Onofrio Annunziata Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: SecondFloor, Table 3, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as "forever chemicals", are ubiquitous environmental contaminants whose remarkable persistence poses significant risks to human health and ecosystems. Thus, it is important to develop analytical assays to determine PFAS concentrations based on widely accessible, readily available instrumentation, such as UV-VIS spectrophotometry. Tetrasodium tetraphenylporphyrintetrasulfonate (TPPS) is a water-soluble porphyrin known for its spectrophotometric property in water. It is also known that TPPS binds to the protein bovine serum albumin (BSA). We investigated the effect of BSA on the absorption spectrum of TPPS and how PFAS presence impacts BSA-TPPS interaction in water. Interestingly, we found that BSA induces TPPS precipitation. As BSA concentration increases, TPPS solubility first dramatically decreases, then increases, ultimately leading to the formation of homogeneous solutions at relatively high BSA concentration. Furthermore, addition of two different PFAS, sodium perfluorohexanoate and potassium perfluorobutanesulfonate salts, to homogeneous BSA-TPPS mixtures appreciably alter TPPS spectra. Our results show that these mixtures can be used to produce calibration curves relevant to the determination of PFAS concentrations in water.

Mimicking Nature's Strategy for Making Drugs with Large, Predictable, Ring-shaped Molecules

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Annie Downum Chemistry & Biochemistry Liam Claton Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Eric Simanek Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: Basement, Table 7, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

Some of the most effective drugs from Nature are large and ring-shaped, so-called macrocycles. Macrocycles are interesting because they can interfere with protein-protein interactions, a different strategy for therapy than that used by small molecules (like aspirin). The challenge with the design of macrocycle drugs is that they are difficult to make and behave unpredictably. Here, an efficient strategy to make macrocycles is described. These molecules behave consistently (with preserved shapes) and can be tailored to optimize binding (a hallmark of drug design). The two macrocycles described differ in the choice of one group with significant (and predictable) consequences. Both groups mimic amino acid sidechains that are implicated in protein-protein interactions. One amine, N-methylbenzylamine, yields a macrocycle that will adopt six conformations in solution (an advantage when looking for drugs). The second amine, isobutylamine, gives more than eight conformations. Structural analysis was accomplished by NMR spectroscopy.

Influence of the Quinoline Moiety on the Pharmacological Properties of Tetra-aza Pyridinophanes and Their Anticancer Activity

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Sarah Dunn Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Kayla Green Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: SecondFloor, Table 5, Position 1, 1:45-3:45

The development of novel anticancer agents with enhanced selectivity and reduced toxicity remains a critical challenge in medicinal chemistry. In this study, we investigate the influence of the quinoline moiety on the pharmacological properties of tetra-aza pyridinophanes, with a focus on their anticancer activity. A series of structurally diverse derivatives were synthesized, incorporating variations in the quinoline moiety position and R-group functionalization. The compounds were characterized using multiple spectroscopic and analytical techniques, and their biological activity was evaluated in cancer cell lines. Results indicate that the presence of the quinoline moiety significantly improves anticancer efficacy compared to its absence, suggesting enhanced interactions with cellular targets. Furthermore, permeability studies reveal that the methoxy (-OMe) substitution on the pyridine ring enhances cellular uptake relative to the hydroxyl (-OH) counterpart. These findings highlight the potential of quinoline-functionalized tetra-aza pyridinophanes as promising candidates for targeted cancer therapy. By improving the selectivity between normal and cancerous cells, this work advances the design of next-generation chemotherapeutics with reduced systemic toxicity.

Streamlined Synthesis of a Potent Inhibitor of Dehydroquinate Synthase

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Ella Fitterer Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s): Jean-Luc Montchamp Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: SecondFloor, Table 2, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

This project is to synthesize a known nanomolar inhibitor of dehydroquinate synthase for evaluation as an antimicrobial agent in collaboration with TCU's Biology Professor McGillivray. It is estimated that nearly 10 million individuals could die per year due to antimicrobial resistance by the year 2050 (1). The focus will be two-fold: first, the improved synthesis of alkenylphosphonate 1, and then its elaboration into various prodrugs to improve its activity in vivo. The in vitro activity of 1 on dehydroquinate synthase is Ki = 0.29 nM, while the enzyme's substrate has Km = 4 microM (2). Dehydroquinate synthase is an enzyme that is part of the aromatic amino acid biosynthetic pathway, which is essential to bacteria and plants but does not exist in mammals - which is why we must eat vegetables and fruits. Thus, the toxicity to humans of antibacterial compounds targeting this pathway should be minimized.

Compound 1 was synthesized previously (2), but improvements to its synthesis must be made since it will be the starting material for the preparation of prodrugs. Prodrugs are compounds that are precursors of 1 but where the charge is masked. Because inhibitor 1 is highly hydrophilic, this prodrug strategy should be necessary to achieve biological activity in vivo. Initial work will aim at the large-scale preparation of 1 and particularly eliminate as much as possible the need for purification by chromatography.

The Goldilocks Combination to Unprecedented Perovskites

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Maegyn Grubbs Chemistry & Biochemistry Sergei Dzyuba Chemistry & Biochemistry Zygmunt Gryczynski Physics & Astronomy Bong Lee Physics & Astronomy
Advisor(s): Jeff Coffer Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: Basement, Table 4, Position 2, 11:30-1:30

Metal-halide perovskites are crystalline semiconductive materials with a tunable direct bandgap, defect tolerance, and high charge carrier mobility. These useful properties have led to application perovskites such as LEDs, solar cells, and more recently lasers.
In this project, cetyl ionic liquid (IL) enhanced Methylammonium Lead Tribromide perovskites thin films were studied on substrates with varying refractive indices to determine how refractive index impacts photophysical properties. Methylammonium Lead Tribromide perovskites have a refractive index of 2.19. In comparison glass, a common substrate, has a refractive index of 1.51 while yttrium-stabilized zirconium oxide (YSZ) is 2.15.
Thin films of Methylammonium Lead Tribromide grown on yttrium-stabilized zirconium oxide (YSZ) in the presence of an ionic liquid are found to be strongly emissive in the green at a wavelength of 535 nm (with quantum efficiency values above 60%). The associated photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectra show an unprecedented series of distinct peaks, one set with an average energy separation of ~200 milli-electron volts, the other set with a ~100 milli-electron volt separation indicating possible Giant Rashba Splitting. The preparation and structure of these films, along with origins of this splitting, are presented.

P-Stereogenic Phosphorus Compounds as Organocatalysts for Asymmetric Synthesis

Type: Graduate
Author(s): Ellis Guernsey Chemistry & Biochemistry
Advisor(s):
Location: Basement, Table 6, Position 3, 11:30-1:30

Asymmetric chemical transformations are essential, given that most pharmaceuticals are chiral. However, the industrial implementation of an asymmetric catalyst relies on basic economic principles. For an economically viable synthesis, catalysts should be readily available, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable. We are synthesizing and evaluating a series of chiral phosphorus acids (CPAs) as catalysts for asymmetric transformations. Building on our previous work, we are developing P-chiral phosphorus acids as Brønsted acid catalysts for the acid-catalyzed asymmetric transformations.

Don't spill the tea(or the chemicals): A safety intiative at TCU

Type: Undergraduate
Author(s): Tatum Harvey Chemistry & Biochemistry Ibukun Alausa Biology Grace Bobo Chemistry & Biochemistry Nick Boehly Biology Delaney Davis Biology Audrey Dolt Biology Annie Downum Chemistry & Biochemistry Isabelle Galvan Biology Jacquelyn Ha Biology Daisy Li Chemistry & Biochemistry Aidan Meek Biology Jonah Morgan Engineering Kadie Nguyen Chemistry & Biochemistry Mark Sayegh Chemistry & Biochemistry Samantha Shah Chemistry & Biochemistry William Stites Biology Sophia Tunks Chemistry & Biochemistry Lexi Winter Biology Amarige Yusufji Chemistry & Biochemistry Troy Zambak Biology
Advisor(s): Kayla Green Chemistry & Biochemistry Heidi Conrad Chemistry & Biochemistry Julie Fry Chemistry & Biochemistry
Location: SecondFloor, Table 4, Position 3, 1:45-3:45

Lab safety across independent academic and research labs for undergraduate and graduate students is critical to creating a successful chemistry experience. Many students at Texas Christian University (TCU) are heading into the medical field where healthcare professionals work in sensitive and controlled environments every day. Others are moving to research and industrial labs where safety is a critical component of success. Safety concerns constantly arise within these environments. Understanding how to manage a hazard or safety concern is a critical skill that translates to a successful professional skillset and creates a positive professional environment. TCU is offering a groundbreaking safety course for undergraduates and graduate students starting Fall 2024. Students in the course will focus on learning objectives from American Chemical Society’s, “Guidelines for Chemical Laboratory Safety in Academic Institutions”. The TCU Chemistry Club is working to complement this new course with a campus awareness campaign and include local elementary schools that work with Chemistry Club. We will be discussing the various awareness strategies that the Chemistry Club has implemented to achieve awareness at various campuses.