Organic Synthesis Platform
The Organic Synthesis Platform is involved in the synthesis of biologically active molecules for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The laboratories are equipped with modern apparatus for the synthesis of molecules of industrial interest in the field of bioactive compounds for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes and of composite and biomedical materials. The laboratories are also equipped with modern apparatus for purification, microwave assisted reactions and continuous reactors.
The Organic Synthesis Platform is involved in two main lines of research: angiogenesis and apoptosis. Within the area of angiogenesis research is directed toward integrins, a particular class of adhesion molecules. These play a major role in tumour metastasis, and in other important pathologies such as osteoporosis, restenosis, diabetic retinopathies etc. Our research is directed both toward diagnostics and therapeutics. In the field of apoptosis we are interested in XIAP inhibitors, and in particular in the synthesis of Smac/DIABLO mimetics. Potent Smac mimetics may have promising therapeutic applications as a new class of anti-cancer drugs.
Scientific Director
Leonardo Manzoni gained his Laurea degree in Chemistry from University of Milan in 1992. He received his PhD from University of Milan in 1996, under the supervision of Professor Carlo Scolastico. From 1996-1997 he was granted an Alexander von Humboldt fellowship and was a post-doctoral research associate with Professor Richard R. Schmidt at the University of Konstanz (Germany). In 1998, he returned to University of Milan as a post-doctoral researcher. Since 2001 he holds a permanent position at CNR (Institute of Molecular Science and Technologies – ISTM) as a research scientist.
Dr. Leonardo Manzoni and his group