Synthesis and Metabolism of Chlorophylls and Derivatives

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The focus of this research is a broad study on the syntheses and metabolism of chlorophylls and derivatives. The biosynthetic origin of macrocyclic carbons in the bacteriochlorophyll-e will be investigated and the degradation of the molecules in senescent bacteria studied. Synthetic studies will be aimed at the production of a variety of targets including 3,8-divinylchlorophyll-a, isochlorophyll-a, a conformationally locked phytochromobilin and a series of non-planar porphyrins and chlorins. Stable phlorins and corroles will also be constructed with the goal of producing bis-macrocycles. With this award, the Synthetic Organic Program is supporting the research of Dr. Kevin M. Smith of the Department of Chemistry at the University of California, Davis. Dr. Smith will focus his work on a broad-based and wide-ranging study of the biosynthesis, catabolism, chemistry and spectroscopy of novel porphyrins, chlorophylls and bacteriochlorophylls. Chlorophylls are the catalysts in the vital process of photosynthesis and are involved in light gathering as well as the process of charge separation. Certain porphyrins and their metal complexes are to be studied as biomimics of chlorophylls found in photosynthetic organisms and as molecules with potential biomedical implications.