Bioinorganic chemistry inspires innovative strategies for health and environmental protection. This field of science focuses on the reactivity of elements, simple inorganic compounds, and coordination compounds in various biological systems, ranging from microorganisms to the human body.
Research conducted in the Coordination and Bioinorganic Physicochemistry Group in terms of bioinorganic chemistry involves an understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of bioinorganic reactions. It explores the functions of transition metal coordination compounds such as iron, cobalt, copper, manganese, and zinc, which play catalytic, regulatory, transport, and control roles in nature. The reactions of interest are studied both in solution and cellular systems, utilising available physicochemical, biochemical, and molecular biology methods. In this context, significant attention is paid to the biological chemistry of small inorganic redox molecules (NO, O2, H2S, H2O2, and their reactive derivatives). Our research focuses on catalytic reactions and cellular signalling processes, including post-translational modifications of proteins, interactions with nucleic acids, and small metallobioinorganic molecules. Many of our studies involve collaboration with national and international research groups from diverse scientific disciplines such as the life sciences, environmental sciences, medical sciences, as well as materials science, and nanotechnology.
Within the realm of biomedical chemistry, we conduct fundamental research to assess the biological activity of chemical compounds and nanomaterials as potential pharmaceuticals or markers for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. We investigate the impact of inorganic environmental pollutants on human health, focusing on understanding the mechanisms of biological activity (e.g., cytotoxicity, intracellular localization, transport, mechanisms of cell death, anti-metastatic effects, etc.). For example, we design and test compounds for optical imaging targeted at cancer cells, as well as markers and biosensors. Additionally, we design and investigate molecular and nanostructural compounds for potential biomedical applications.
Sample research projects include:
" Exploring influence of inorganic cell microenvironment on NO signalling deregulation in age-related disorders. From molecular mechanistic insight in model systems to new therapeutic targets."
"Air Pollution versus Autoimmunity: Role of multiphase aqueous Inorganic Chemistry (APARIC)"
"Targeting of hypoxic cancer cells for imaging"
"Tuning anticancer properties of ruthenium polypyridyl complexes towards antimetastatic activity"