Using synthetic chemistry to solve the biggest challenges in drug discovery and human health
By reimagining how molecules are made, we’re opening new doors for discovery in biology and medicine.
Despite centuries of innovation, chemistry is often still the limiting factor in the development of small-molecule drug candidates, molecular probes, or novel chemical libraries. Many molecules that have tremendous biological potential are challenging to modify with known chemical methods.
Our program is developing new methods for the synthesis of molecules that have previously been inaccessible.
The Research
Our lab focuses on designing and applying novel synthetic methods to address challenges in complex molecule synthesis, chemical biology, and human health.
Modular Synthesis of Antibiotics
We develop synthetic routes to complex antibiotic scaffolds, enabling structure–function studies and the design of analogs that overcome resistance.
Expanding Antibiotic Spectra of Action
We design strategies to expand the activity of Gram-positive antibiotics against Gram-negative pathogens by leveraging periplasmic proteases for targeted release.
Development of New Tools to Study Biological Systems
We create chemical tools such as photoactivatable crosslinkers and trifunctional anchors to enable high-resolution studies of protein interactions and cellular structures.
Recent Publications
Hybrid Antibiotics Targeting the Bacterial Ribosome
We extend our understanding of ribosome inhibition and show that the rational design of dual-action antibiotics can restore antibacterial efficacy against resistant strains. It’s a promising framework for developing next-gen therapeutics to combat multidrug-resistant pathogens and reinvigorate the dwindling antibiotic pipeline.
A Convergent Approach to Resorcinolic Macrolides to Expand Structural Diversity
We demonstrate that strategic modifications of a minimal RM scaffold through modular chemical insight can provide foundational structure–activity relationships for the class.
Remodelling of the translatome controls diet and its impact on tumorigenesis
We unveil a new fatty acid-induced signaling pathway that activates selective translation and provides a tailored diet intervention therapy for cancer.
Our Lab
We are a diverse team of graduate students and postdocs working at the forefront of synthetic chemistry research.
Join the Lab:
Graduate students are encouraged to apply to the Scripps Graduate Program. Postdoctoral applications should include a CV and a 1-page summary of research accomplishments and should be submitted directly by email to Ian: iseiple@scripps.edu
