My research

Research interest

1.    Medicinal chemistry, drug repositioning, and natural products

An aurone derivative

Eurycomanone from Eurycoma longifolia 
(known in Malaysia asTongkat Ali)

My interest is in finding new and improved medicinal compounds through the design and synthesis of small molecules. Using medicinal chemistry approaches, modifications are made to a lead compound and these compounds are tested for a biological activity of interest so that a structure-activity relationship (SAR) can be elucidated.  Our aim is to discover potential compounds that are not only potent but drug-like (good absorption, distribution, metabolism, elimination, toxicity (ADMET) and solubility profile).

 Lead optimization of existing drugs and natural products is another area of interest. Natural products hold immense potentials for medicinal use but they are often less than ideal due to inherent physicochemical limitations (poor solubility, low bioavailability, metabolic instabilities, toxicities). Modifications of natural leads may  give rise to a more drug-like natural product.

2.    Cancer Chemoprevention

The Nrf2 pathway (from Nature Reviews Cancer 2003,  3: 768-780)

Chemoprevention entails the consumption of compounds, both natural and synthetic, to reduce the risk of getting cancer. Carcinogenesis, the process leading to the development of cancer is protracted and multistage event. This holds ample opportunities for early intervention to inhibit, slow or reverse the process and therefore prevent the final manifestation of cancer. The Nrf2-ARE-Keap1 pathway is one target pathway for chemopreventive approach. I am interested in building the understanding regarding the NRF2 pathway and its role in carcinogenesis via a chemical and structure-activity relationship approach.

To potential and interested students, an experience of discovery and learning awaits you.

Current project:
Design and synthesis of aurones as potential neuroprotective agents