Using Exploratory LC-MS Metabolomics to Identify Carnivory-Related Molecular Changes in Drosera Capensis

Abstract: 

Mass spectrometry (MS) is an ever-advancing technique, capable of detecting small molecules at incredibly low concentrations, while gathering the information necessary to identify unknown molecules. I have used LC-MS/MS to identify unknown small molecules in Drosera capensis, or the Cape Sundew. I will present basic LC-MS/MS data collection theory and guidance, and discuss how we used a combination of LC-MS/MS, genomics, and transcriptomics to monitor the response of D. capensis to a variety of treatments.

Progress towards the meroterpenoid rhodatin and synthesis of rhodocorane L

Abstract:

Progress towards enantioselective synthesis of the meroterpenoid rhodatin and the synthesis of the related terpenoid rhodocorane L, both with unique oxidized acorane-type core structures, will be discussed. The spiro[4.5] bicyclic acorane core of each will be formed using asymmetric gold-catalyzed dearomative spirocyclization. This work towards rhodatin explores synthesis and reactivity of ene-diketones, which are rare understudied motifs, towards carbon nucleophiles.

An Approach Toward the Divergent Synthesis of Dihydro-β-Agarofuran Natural Product

Abstract: The Vanderwal group focuses on the total synthesis of bioactive natural products and the development of new methods to support complex synthetic endeavors. Motivated by the structural complexity and biological activity of the dihydro-β-agarofuran (DHBA) family, we aimed to develop an efficient route to access these natural products. Along the way, we established a new method for installing quaternary centers on arene substrates via a diastereoselective Birch reduction/alkylation, using (–)-8-phenylmenthol as an ester chiral auxiliary.

Putting a New Spin on Intermediate Detection and Automated Analysis to Accelerate Electrochemical Discovery

Abstract: Elucidating and controlling the interfacial reactivity of oxygenated intermediates is key to a broad scope of electrochemical studies of catalysts, sensors, and energy storage media. I will present a modern approach to understanding the electrochemical interface using techniques based on small electrodes, new spectroscopic methods, and the use of automated electrochemistry to characterize intermediates such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and to explore the converstion of oxygenated organics.