Lab strategy and overall interests

The researchers in LCOM (Laboratory of Organometallic and Medicinal Chemistry) work on every step of the drug development process: from finding treatment targets to clinical studies. We design and synthesize new compounds with targeted properties and study their biological activity and mechanism of action. We also investigate known therapeutic agents for anti-cancer activity (drug repurposing), as well as new drug delivery systems (such as liposome-based or nanoparticle formulations) to find novel treatments for unmet clinical needs.

We use advanced in vitro drug screening systems - 3D tumoroid models - to test candidates and formulations identified by traditional screening, to better assess their therapeutic viability. We can then translate this research to clinical trials.

Particular interests in compounds that synergize with heat for combination with thermotherapy (focal therapy) and compounds that operate via epigenetic modes of action (including the development of chemical tools). We have key collaborations with clinicians in the domains of retinoblastoma and mesothelioma (both involving chemotherapy combined with hyperthermia).