Synthesis of Spin Labeled Nanosensors for the Estrogen Receptor

Student: Adam Hendricks
Department: Chemistry
Advisor: Robert Hanson

Abstract

Since the term “nanotechnology” was introduced in 1986 by Eric Drexler, it has grown to include a variety of disciplines; such as medicine. The goal of my research is to apply nanotechnology to the field of medicinal organic chemistry through the development of novel nanosensors for the estrogen receptor.

This research project will begin with the synthesis of a spin labeled 17-α-substituted estradiol using a Stille coupling. Concurrently with the preparation of the spin labeled estradiols will be the synthesis of nanoparticle linkers. Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies of the new compounds will further characterize the estrogen receptor in more physiological conditions allowing for the determination of any conformational changes that occur upon binding of a ligand. With these results a second generation of spin labeled estradiols will be prepared and immobilized to gold nanoparticles that were being prepared throughout. The immediate application of these sensors will be as a new diagnostic material that can be used for drug design. It is the long term goal of this project is to use these compounds not only as nanosensors but as “nanomachines” in drug delivery and possible as therapeutics themselves.