Research

In Makarem Lab, we particularly develop chelators for use in tumor targeting. In this context, our research focuses on the design, synthesis, molecular studies, and application of bifunctional chelators. This class of complexing ligands can coordinate metal ions through a set of donor atoms while simultaneously binding to bioactive vectors through their conjugating groups; they are duly called “bifunctional”. For clinical applications, chelate cages must be strong enough to safely deliver their metal/radiometal payload to tumor cells. Additionally, the linkage between the chelator backbone and vector must be stable enough during biological circulation in the patient’s body. Therefore, chelators designed for tumor targeting must be assessed from different perspectives, such as coordination behavior, bioconjugation capability, and biostability. To achieve this goal, we primarily investigate non-radioactive models, while successful results will be further developed using radioactive approaches.

1- Design and synthesis:

2- Molecular studies (complex chemistry, bioconjugation methodologies, stability tests, etc.):

3- Applications in radiopharmaceutical syntheses and tumor targeting (collaboration with partners)