This Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) project, supported in the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, focusses on the development of novel, useful, fluorescent labeling strategies that will permit biomacromolecule analysis, especially for proteins and peptides, using capillary electrophoresis (CE). During the tenure of this four-year continuing grant, Professor Beale and his students at the University of Alabama at Birmingham will develop a highly sensitive peptide mapping protocol using CE with laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection, investigate partial specific peptide cleavage schemes and pursue strategies for putting a single fluorescent label at the n-terminus of a protein without modifying the entire protein. During this grant period Professor Beale will expose undergraduates to research opportunities and implement project-based laboratory experiences in the senior level analytical course. This course will be tailored to students in forensic science, public health, pre-med and chemistry. The ability to characterize proteins by mapping peptide sequences and to develop sensitive protein separation methods are important objectives for a host of applications in biotechnology. The separations based on CE with LIF to be developed will be sensitive and practical outcomes of this CAREER research project. The enrichment of the undergraduate analytical curriculum and the enhanced opportunities for undergraduates to participate in frontier research projects are educational aspects of this CAREER research project that will positively impact students at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
