Oxidative stress is a common biological effect resulting from the imbalance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated and depleted in living organisms.  This disruption in oxidative species can result in widespread cellular damage with systematic physiological consequences often associated with tissue injury and disease. Herein, we describe methodology that takes advantage of the unique reactivity of selenium-based amino acids to undergo oxidative elimination to form alkenes and subsequent conjugate addition with thiols. We exploit this reactivity to develop elastin-based biomaterials that are responsive to reactive oxygen species. We demonstrate this transformation in cross-linked gels and hydrogels, and discuss its application in ROS dosimetry and drug delivery. This research outlines a strategy by our laboratory to utilize artificial amino acids to introduce novel reactivity and structural properties in proteins.The oxidation of selenium compounds to promote unique reactivity in biomaterials serves as a platform for my future research interests in introducing small, oxidized molecules (i.e. SO2 and CO2) into organic molecules. This ongoing work compliments my previous research experience in metal catalysis and mechanism. An aspect of my future research will focus on the development of green strategies using metal catalysis to convert biomaterials such as lignin and cellulose to common energy and industrial feedstocks.

Selenoamino acids and the development of biomaterials responsive to reactive oxygen species (ROS)

244th National Meeting (2012)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.