Heterocyclic Chemistry
Heterocycles form the structural core of most pharmaceuticals. We contribute to this field through new synthetic methodology, mechanistic studies, and comprehensive reviews that map the landscape for the community.
Reviews & Synthetic Scope
Heterocycles are the backbone of modern drug design — present in over 85% of approved pharmaceuticals. Our group maintains a strong interest in the synthesis, reactivity, and biological applications of heterocyclic scaffolds, both through original research and through comprehensive reviews. Current topics include mesoionic triazoloquinazolines (with Prof. Kovalenko, Kharkiv) and the chemistry of coumarins, aziridines, and nitrogen-containing heterocycles. This work is reflected in a growing body of review literature (Front. Chem. 2024; Org. Biomol. Chem. 2023; Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023) and a recent book chapter in Targets in Heterocyclic Systems (2025).
Mesoionic Heterocycles
In collaboration with Prof. Sergiy Kovalenko (V. N. Karazin Kharkiv National University, Ukraine), we develop efficient synthetic routes to novel fused mesoionic heterocycles of the triazoloquinazoline family. These unusual zwitterionic structures, confirmed by X-ray crystallography and computational analysis, display intriguing electronic properties and coordination chemistry with potential applications in medicinal chemistry and metal complexation. This collaboration reflects our commitment to maintaining scientific partnerships with Ukrainian researchers during wartime.
Mesoionic triazoloquinazoline — 2D structure and X-ray crystallographic confirmation.
Future Directions: Cystic Fibrosis
A central goal for our group is to contribute to the development of new therapeutics for cystic fibrosis. Together with Dr. Iva Spreitzer, we are building a compound database at the Institute of Pharmacy and plan to screen for modulators of mutant CFTR proteins. This direction is deeply personal to Christian, who lost family members to this disease.