Dhilirolide U is a highly oxygenated fungal meroterpenoid derived from 3,5-dimethylorsellinic acid (DMOA). Its unique 6/6/6/5/5 pentacyclic framework, featuring a densely functionalized bicyclo[3.2.1]octane core fused to a γ-lactone, presents significant challenges for chemical synthesis. In 2026, Carreira and coworkers reported the first total synthesis of (±)-dhilirolide U, employing a series of strategically designed transformations to construct its complex molecular architecture.

Our research program focuses on developing selective and sustainable synthetic methods that streamline the preparation of functionalized molecules from abundant and readily available feedstocks. In particular, we are interested in photocatalytic and electrochemical strategies that generate radical and radical ion intermediates, leveraging the unique reactivity of these open-shell species to achieve challenging bond constructions under mild conditions.

Histones are small proteins that package DNA into chromosomes, and a large number of studies have showed that several post-translational modification (PTM) sites on the histones are associated with both gene activation and silencing.  Along with DNA and small non-coding RNA, histone PTMs make up epigenetic mechanisms that control gene expression patterns outside of DNA sequence mutations. Dysregulation of these chromatin networks underlie several human diseases such as cancer.

G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of membrane proteins in the human genome and play an essential role in signal transduction. These receptors bind a wide range of extracellular ligands, including hormones, neurotransmitters, nucleotides, peptides, and undergo conformational changes in their seven transmembrane domains to activate intracellular signaling pathways.

Mira Le, a Chemistry PhD Candidate in the Lockin Group, has been selected as one of five recipients of an Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) Scholarship. This competitive award given by the University of Georgia Biomedical and Translational Sciences Institute partnered with the ARCS to support research that "addresses important challenges across the life sciences, engineering and human health." Mira will receive an award of $9,000 for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Dr. Vlad Klepov, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry, received an Early Career Researcher Program award from the Department of Energy. DOE ECRP is the agency’s most prestigious award for junior faculty that serves to recognize exceptional early career researchers at U.S. academic institutions, DOE national laboratories, and Office of Science User Facilities.

Aliphatic polyesters such as poly (butylene succinate) (PBS) and poly (lactic acid) (PLA) are attractive materials because their chemical structures provide opportunities to tailor thermal, mechanical, and functional properties. However, their performance is strongly influenced by molecular architecture, crystallization, and interactions between polymer chains, while poor interfacial compatibility can further limit the properties of polyester blends.