Resarch Group Dr. Makarem

Bioorganometallic Chemistry and Tumor Targeting

In our fundamental research we study metal-based conjugates for use in tumor targeting and cancer theranostics (e.g., PET imaging, targeted therapy). Metal-based conjugates are modified bioactive molecules (peptides, proteins, antibodies, etc.) bearing a theranostic metal/radiometal ion and are currently of high interest in radiopharmaceutical drug discovery and nuclear medicine. They are structurally composed of three parts: a bioactive targeting molecule or pharmacophore, a metal/radiometal payload, and a bifunctional complexing ligand (chelator) which is a small organic molecule connecting the metal payload to the pharmacophore. The research in Makarem’s Lab particularly focuses on new bifunctional chelators.