Design and Synthesis of a LAT-1-Targeting 9-Aminoacridine-Lysine Conjugate for Selective Cancer Therapy
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Karelle Aiken
Location
Russell Union Ballroom
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Organic Chemistry
Type of Research
On-going
Session Format
Poster Presentation
College
College of Science & Mathematics
Department
Chemistry
Abstract
L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) has emerged as a focus for research in anti-cancer therapeutics. This protein provides a carrier-mediated transport (CMT) strategy for facilitated diffusion across the cell membrane, specifically amino acid uptake that supports cell growth and other processes. LAT1 is often overexpressed in cancer cells due to heightened nutrient demands. The transporter can be utilized to achieve greater selectivity for malignant cells over healthy cells with therapeutics that are strategically designed for uptake via LAT1, amino acid-drug conjugates. The heterocyclic 9-aminoacridine (9NH-A) is known for its ability to intercalate into the DNA double helix, forming complexes that act as a cytostatic agent. These characteristics make the acridine backbone especially promising for cancer treatment, particularly in hindering the progression of malignant cells. The synthetic plan in this project involves coupling 9NH-A to the naturally occurring amino acid lysine (Lys) to create LAT1-targeting 9NH-A-Lys conjugate. This presentation focuses on the current findings involving the synthesis of 9NH-A-Lys.
Program Description
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Start Date
4-23-2026 10:00 AM
End Date
4-23-2026 12:00 PM
Recommended Citation
Jernigan, Evan B., "Design and Synthesis of a LAT-1-Targeting 9-Aminoacridine-Lysine Conjugate for Selective Cancer Therapy" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 24.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026/2026/24
Design and Synthesis of a LAT-1-Targeting 9-Aminoacridine-Lysine Conjugate for Selective Cancer Therapy
Russell Union Ballroom
L-type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) has emerged as a focus for research in anti-cancer therapeutics. This protein provides a carrier-mediated transport (CMT) strategy for facilitated diffusion across the cell membrane, specifically amino acid uptake that supports cell growth and other processes. LAT1 is often overexpressed in cancer cells due to heightened nutrient demands. The transporter can be utilized to achieve greater selectivity for malignant cells over healthy cells with therapeutics that are strategically designed for uptake via LAT1, amino acid-drug conjugates. The heterocyclic 9-aminoacridine (9NH-A) is known for its ability to intercalate into the DNA double helix, forming complexes that act as a cytostatic agent. These characteristics make the acridine backbone especially promising for cancer treatment, particularly in hindering the progression of malignant cells. The synthetic plan in this project involves coupling 9NH-A to the naturally occurring amino acid lysine (Lys) to create LAT1-targeting 9NH-A-Lys conjugate. This presentation focuses on the current findings involving the synthesis of 9NH-A-Lys.
