Prof. Pollastri’s primary research focus is on discovery of new therapeutics for neglected tropical diseases, using a “parachute” or “repurposing” approach. In this approach, he identifies parasitic targets of importance that have been previously biochemically validated, with a further focus on those targets with human homologs that have been pursued in human drug discovery. Prof. Pollastri’s lab then prepare known ligands previously reported against the human homolog for assessment against the parasite target, and then pursue an optimization program from that starting point. His lab’s first project is focused on trypanosomal phosphodiesterases, enzymes that have ~30% homology to human PDE4 and 5. Other projects focus on trypansomal TOR, Aurora kinases, dihydrofolate reductase, and HDACs.

Prof. Pollastrli’s secondary area of focus is on chemical technologies. Projects in this category include diversification of lead compounds using reaction screening approaches, applications of flow chemistry, and Green Chemistry.

Location

The conference is being hosted by the Department of Chemistry at Tufts University. The welcome and registration table will be in the main entrance of the Pearson Chemistry Lab Building at 62 Talbot Ave, Medford, MA 02155

Elevator Speeches

Communicating scientific research effectively to the larger community is very important. For this reason NSYCC would like to  give attendees at the NSCRC an opportunity to present their research in an “elevator speech” .  Presenters will have a chance to promote their research prior to the poster and the seminar sessions, which could increase the attention that they get during throughout the rest of the conference. Each speaker will get 2 minutes maximum with no additional materials. The the best “elevator speech” will be awarded with a prize and recognition.

Those who expressed their interest to give a pitch in their abstract submission will receive more information on their presentation soon!