Peptide Research Reveals Potential Medical and Diagnostic Applications

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PhD research explored improved methods for building tree-like molecules called dendrimers, which are made up of smaller chains of proteins known as peptides which could assist scientists develop complex, useful molecules more easily and reliably with applications for the development of new medical treatments.

The research was carried out by Dr Sheyi Rotimi whose undergraduate studies in biochemistry at Kogi State University in his home country of Nigeria developed his interest in molecular sciences, leading him to UKZN for his master’s research focusing on peptide synthesis. He achieved his master’s degree cum laude under the supervision of Professor Fernando Albericio and Professor Beatriz Garcia de la Torre, which he used as the foundation of his PhD research.

Using a special chemical structure called 1,3,5-Triazine to link various parts of the structure, Rotimi expanded the toolbox for dendrimer construction for chemists and medical researchers, creating a smart connector to unite parts of the structure using nucleophiles.

This new, gentle, efficient and precise method of constructing dendrimers step-by-step works well in conditions safe for biological systems, making it suitable for creating new medicines or diagnostic tools. This could be applied to lifesaving cancer therapy, targeted drug delivery and advanced vaccines.

The successful synthesis of triazine dendrimers with potent antibacterial activity, particularly against multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, highlights their potential as promising therapeutic candidates. This demonstrates that s-triazine is useful in advanced biomolecule design and contributes a valuable framework for developing new antimicrobial agents, addressing an urgent need to combat antibiotic resistance.

Simplifying the organic synthesis of antimicrobial peptides, which could combat resistant bacteria and other pathogens but involve complex and resource-intensive processes, makes the process more efficient and environmentally sustainable.

Rotimi was drawn to UKZN for its strong reputation of scientific excellence, particularly the Peptide Science Laboratory, which is known worldwide for its sustainable and green synthesis methodologies. Rotimi says he enjoyed UKZN’s diverse, inclusive academic environment, supportive community, the quality of academic mentorship he received, and the vibrant campus life.

His passion for research and innovation, particularly in medicine, grew from his fascination with chemical processes in high school as he learned how they explained everyday phenomena.

The support of Rotimi’s supervisors and peers helped him persist through experimental setbacks during his PhD, and he planned carefully and reflectively to achieve the best results, while participating in politics and football during his studies to maintain his well-being and perspective.

During his PhD studies, he participated in a ten-month research visit to CIC biomaGUNE in San Sebastián, Spain, as part of the Horizon 2020 Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Research and Innovation Staff Exchange project SUPRO-GEN facilitated by the European Commission. This opportunity enabled Rotimi to collaborate with leading researchers and refine his methodologies.

He also published scientific papers emerging from his research in scientific journals. He collaborated with the Italian pharmaceutical company Chemo to develop a new industrial production strategy for Semaglutide, a leading treatment for obesity and Type 2 diabetes. He is now focused on developing synthesis methods for the antidiabetic drugs Tirzepatide and Cagrilintide.

Rotimi is looking ahead to a career in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, hoping to contribute to developing innovative and efficient methodologies for synthesising Glucagon-like peptides, an area of research with significant therapeutic potential, particularly in treating metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and obesity. He enthusiastically applies his academic skills to real-world challenges to advance scientific research and drug development.

Rotimi thanked Albericio and de la Torre for their invaluable guidance and mentorship, and his family, friends, colleagues and funders for their support throughout his academic journey.

Words: Christine Cuénod

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini