The focus of this research will be in two areas. First, studies on nudibranchs will identify new compounds and determine the source organisms for those compounds that are dietary derived. Specific examples of systems to be studied include: Bornella anguila, Phyllidia ocellata, P. zelandica, P. varicosa, Siphonaria spp., Phestilla sibogae, Adalaria proxema and Alderia modesta. Second, the role of symbionts in the production of marine natural products will be examined. Target molecucles include: Swinholide A, the pyridoacridine alkaloids, the Renieramycins, Jaspamide, Halichodramide, cyclic dipeptides and diterpenes. With this renewal award, the Synthetic Organic Program is supporting the research of Dr. D. John Faulkner of the Marine Research Division of the University of California-San Diego Scripps Institute. Dr. Faulkner will focus his work on understanding the impact of marine natural products on marine biology. The project involves the chemistry and chemical ecology of marine molluscs, and the the role of symbionts in the production of marine natural products.
