Final Report Summary - CHLIP (Understanding Halogenated Lipids: Synthesis, Mode of Action, Structural Studies, and Applications)
The complex molecules produced by organisms in nature serve as the signals by which nature communicates and regulates. In studying the role of the metabolites, we have much to learn about complex systems, and these lessons can be implemented in understanding diseases and adverse effects in humans. The chlorinated lipids that formed the basis of CHLIP have been associated with food poisoning from contaminated mussels. Our work sheds light on the use of chlorides to control molecular shape and, significantly, has provided insight into what makes these molecules toxic to humans. The investigations of the natural substances were extrapolated by our group in the use of chlorides as surrogates for common groups in bioactive agents and, specifically, potential medicines.