Using uranyl ions to transform C-H bonds into C-C bonds
Official title: Artificial Metalloenzymes Containing Uranyl Cofactors for Photocatalytic C-H Bond Functionalization
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-11011267 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help create important chemical connections using a special type of ion and light, which could eventually lead to better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | January 5, 2024 |
| Project end | January 4, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31GM149158-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011267 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals interested in advancements in synthetic chemistry and drug development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to chemical synthesis or drug development may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of uranyl cations as catalysts to selectively transform unactivated C-H bonds into C-C bonds, a significant challenge in synthetic chemistry. By utilizing visible light to excite the uranyl ion, the project aims to create highly reactive intermediates that can effectively abstract hydrogen atoms from C-H bonds. The approach draws inspiration from natural metalloenzymes, which achieve selective transformations through their unique structures. Patients may benefit from advancements in chemical synthesis that could lead to new therapeutic compounds.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more efficient methods for creating complex organic molecules, potentially resulting in new treatments or drugs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in using photocatalysis for similar transformations, indicating a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herrera, Gabriel — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Herrera, Gabriel
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.