معرفی
Lyle Isaacs is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Maryland, College Park, where he has been since 1998. His research focuses on supramolecular and synthetic chemistry, particularly cucurbit[n]urils (CB[n]), molecular containers with applications in drug delivery, neuromuscular block reversal, and environmental remediation. He holds a B.S. from the University of Chicago, an M.S. from UCLA, and a Ph.D. from ETH Zurich, followed by postdoctoral work at Harvard University.
- Education:
- 1987–1991: B.S. Chemistry, University of Chicago
- 1991–1992: M.S. Chemistry, UCLA
- 1992–1995: Ph.D. Organic Chemistry, ETH Zurich
- 1995–1998: NIH Postdoc, Harvard University
Research Interests
The Isaacs group develops cucurbituril-based molecular containers for drug delivery, neuromuscular block reversal, and environmental applications. These containers exhibit ultra-high binding affinities and selectivity in water, enabling applications like solubilizing hydrophobic drugs and neutralizing neuromuscular blocking agents (e.g., rocuronium). Recent breakthroughs include attomolar dissociation constants and in vivo testing of agents like Motor2 and Pillar[6]MaxQ.
Key projects include:
- Drug Delivery: Acyclic CB[n]-type receptors solubilize insoluble drugs (e.g., paclitaxel) with low toxicity.
- Neuromuscular Block Reversal: Agents like Pillar[6]MaxQ reverse anesthesia-induced paralysis in rats, comparable to sugammadex.
- Environmental Remediation: Solid-state sequestration of micropollutants and toxic gases like iodine.
Scientific Awards & Recognition
- 2013: Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science
- 2011: Invention of the Year (UMCP)
- 2001: Cottrell Scholar (Research Corporation)
- 1996: Silver Medallion Dissertation Award (ETH Zurich)
Advising & Grants
He has mentored 1 high school, 23 undergraduate, 19 graduate, and 7 postdoctoral students. Notable grants include NSF-MRSEC support and NIH funding for drug delivery and neuromuscular research. He directs the UMD Chemistry GAANN fellowship program and organized major conferences like the 2015 National Organic Symposium.
Labs & Collaborations
The Isaacs Lab at UMD collaborates with clinicians and material scientists (e.g., Prof. Volker Briken on drug delivery, Prof. Matthias Eikermann on neuromuscular reversal). The lab’s work spans synthetic chemistry, molecular modeling, and in vivo testing, with a focus on bridging basic science and real-world applications.
