Edmund Ellsworth

Edmund Ellsworth, PhD, is a Professor (Fixed-Term) and Director of the Medicinal Chemistry Facility at Michigan State University (MSU), affiliated with the Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology within the College of Osteopathic Medicine. His research focuses on drug discovery, particularly in cancer therapeutics, antibacterial agents, and HIV protease inhibitors. He leads efforts in developing novel small molecules for anti-tumor efficacy, gene expression modulation in mammary tumors, and anti-fibrillization treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. Ellsworth’s work spans from preclinical cancer models (e.g., HER2+ breast cancer, KRAS-driven lung cancer) to tuberculosis drug development targeting Mycobacterium tuberculosis signaling pathways.

His research also explores innovative drug delivery systems, such as lipid-based self-microemulsions for hepatocellular carcinoma treatment. Notable contributions include the discovery of RXR agonists (e.g., MSU-42011) and structural studies of enzyme inhibitors like ornithine decarboxylase. Ellsworth’s interdisciplinary approach integrates computational modeling (e.g., machine learning for cocaine addiction mechanisms) with synthetic chemistry to address complex biological challenges.

As Facility Director, he oversees medicinal chemistry resources supporting MSU’s Drug Discovery initiatives. While no formal awards are listed, his extensive publication record (spanning 1988–2024) underscores his sustained impact in drug development and organic chemistry. His research also extends to ecological studies, such as identifying spermine as a sex pheromone in sea lampreys, highlighting cross-disciplinary interests.