Professor Cammers-Goodwin's research focuses on three different manifestations of molecular structure: molecular recognition, pi stacking and secondary solution structure. Phosphate and pyrophosphate recognition is examined through interactions with guanidinoindole derivatives synthesized in accord with computer-aided molecular design parameters to maximize host-guest hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. A systematic variation of substituents designed to achieve both electron-rich and electron-poor aryl moieties in a series of benzyl biphenyls is utilized to determine overall stability achieved through pi stacking in fluid solution. The decarboxylation of a carboxybenzisoxazole is exploited to determine the role of hydrogen bonding in the stabilization of helical protein structures by trifluoroethanol. Educational activities include developing an interdisciplinary biological chemistry course and a course that targets drug design through molecular modeling based on available protein crystal structure data, and through a community outreach program, tutoring and mentoring disadvantaged teenagers. With this CAREER award, the Organic Dynamics Program supports the research of Professor Arthur Cammers-Goodwin of the Department of Chemistry at the University of Kentucky. Professor Cammers-Goodwin's research addresses, through study of model systems, the nature of the interaction between biological molecules and ions and the factors dictating the three-dimensional structure of biological molecules in solution. By focusing on comparatively small model compounds in place of the often complex biological molecules, hypotheses regarding specific factors governing the form of the natural molecules are tested. Professor Cammers-Goodwin's educational activities include developing an interdisciplinary course on biological chemistry course and a course on pharmaceutical synthesis, and through a community center, mentoring minority high school students.
