Investigations into Applications of Nickel Complexes for Future Breast Cancer Treatment
Poster Number
17
Format
Poster Presentation
Faculty Mentor Name
Liang Xue
Abstract/Artist Statement
This research aims to investigate the binding properties of two nickel complexes (NiCR and NiCR-2H) with DNA. NiCR-2H was reported to show unusual cytotoxicity towards human breast cancer cells in contrast to NiCR although the two molecules have very similar structures. The studies here attempt to give an explanation on this significant biological phenomenon by exploring the binding modes of the title molecules with DNA. The on going mechanistic investigation, including viscosity studies, indicates that NiCR and NiCR-2H bind to DNA by way of minor groove interactions instead of intercalation. These investigations help lay the foundation for future applications of nickel complexes in breast cancer treatment. Working as a paramedic for five years gave me the unfortunate opportunity to see many different faces of cancer. Working in an intimate environment with patients and their families I was able to see the wake of devastation lead by such a prevalent disease. Though my perspective in my professional career lead to an understanding of the dynamics of the disease, I fully did not appreciate the inipact on a family until someone I loved fell to cancer. Here I hope to contribute to future success in fighting such a devastating disease.
Location
Wendell Phillips Center, 1st floor hallways
Start Date
3-5-2008 1:00 PM
End Date
3-5-2008 3:00 PM
Investigations into Applications of Nickel Complexes for Future Breast Cancer Treatment
Wendell Phillips Center, 1st floor hallways
This research aims to investigate the binding properties of two nickel complexes (NiCR and NiCR-2H) with DNA. NiCR-2H was reported to show unusual cytotoxicity towards human breast cancer cells in contrast to NiCR although the two molecules have very similar structures. The studies here attempt to give an explanation on this significant biological phenomenon by exploring the binding modes of the title molecules with DNA. The on going mechanistic investigation, including viscosity studies, indicates that NiCR and NiCR-2H bind to DNA by way of minor groove interactions instead of intercalation. These investigations help lay the foundation for future applications of nickel complexes in breast cancer treatment. Working as a paramedic for five years gave me the unfortunate opportunity to see many different faces of cancer. Working in an intimate environment with patients and their families I was able to see the wake of devastation lead by such a prevalent disease. Though my perspective in my professional career lead to an understanding of the dynamics of the disease, I fully did not appreciate the inipact on a family until someone I loved fell to cancer. Here I hope to contribute to future success in fighting such a devastating disease.