Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing global environmental challenges, with global plastic waste generation estimated to reach 687 Mt/year. Biobased and biodegradable polymers offer a promising alternative to conventional fossil-based plastics and a potential pathway toward reducing their environmental impact.

Dhilirolide U is a highly oxygenated fungal meroterpenoid derived from 3,5-dimethylorsellinic acid (DMOA). Its unique 6/6/6/5/5 pentacyclic framework, featuring a densely functionalized bicyclo[3.2.1]octane core fused to a γ-lactone, presents significant challenges for chemical synthesis. In 2026, Carreira and coworkers reported the first total synthesis of (±)-dhilirolide U, employing a series of strategically designed transformations to construct its complex molecular architecture.

Our research program focuses on developing selective and sustainable synthetic methods that streamline the preparation of functionalized molecules from abundant and readily available feedstocks. In particular, we are interested in photocatalytic and electrochemical strategies that generate radical and radical ion intermediates, leveraging the unique reactivity of these open-shell species to achieve challenging bond constructions under mild conditions.

Histones are small proteins that package DNA into chromosomes, and a large number of studies have showed that several post-translational modification (PTM) sites on the histones are associated with both gene activation and silencing.  Along with DNA and small non-coding RNA, histone PTMs make up epigenetic mechanisms that control gene expression patterns outside of DNA sequence mutations. Dysregulation of these chromatin networks underlie several human diseases such as cancer.

G Protein-Coupled Receptors (GPCRs) are the largest family of membrane proteins in the human genome and play an essential role in signal transduction. These receptors bind a wide range of extracellular ligands, including hormones, neurotransmitters, nucleotides, peptides, and undergo conformational changes in their seven transmembrane domains to activate intracellular signaling pathways.

Mira Le, a Chemistry PhD Candidate in the Lockin Group, has been selected as one of five recipients of an Achievement Rewards for College Scientists (ARCS) Scholarship. This competitive award given by the University of Georgia Biomedical and Translational Sciences Institute partnered with the ARCS to support research that "addresses important challenges across the life sciences, engineering and human health." Mira will receive an award of $9,000 for the 2026-2027 academic year.