معرفی
John A. Porco is the Samour Family Professor of Organic Chemistry and Director of the Boston University Center for Molecular Discovery Research. He leads research in synthetic methodologies for complex molecules and chemical library synthesis, with a focus on developing anticancer agents and translation inhibitors targeting eIF4A. His work integrates organic synthesis with translational science to study molecular mechanisms in diseases like cancer and viral infections.
Education:
- B.A. Chemistry (summa cum laude), College of the Holy Cross, 1985
- M.S. Organic Chemistry, Yale University, 1988
- Ph.D. Organic Chemistry, Harvard University, 1992
Research Interests: Porco's lab explores synthetic strategies such as dearomatization-driven cyclizations and photocycloadditions to create bioactive compounds. Key areas include rocaglate synthesis for antiviral and anticancer applications, biomimetic approaches to natural product synthesis, and development of eIF4A inhibitors to target MYC-driven cancers. Their work bridges organic chemistry with drug discovery, emphasizing translational applications in medicine.
Advising and Alumni: Since 1999, 25 PhD students and 19 postdocs have completed training in his group. Alumni pursue academic roles (e.g., Prof. Xiaoguang Lei at Peking University) or industry careers (e.g., Dr. Ji Qi at Merck). The group's research has led to patents for rocaglate derivatives and collaborations with institutions like Eisai Research Institute.
Labs and Facilities: The Porco Group operates within the Boston University Center for Molecular Discovery (NIH-funded), specializing in high-throughput synthesis and screening of chemical libraries. The lab emphasizes innovation in synthetic methods and interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex biological problems.
