CHED 265 |
| Our lab is interested in developing aptamer-based colorimetric molecular sensors for flunitrazepam (better known as “roofies”) and other commonly abused narcotics. A combinatorial approach was used with the aim of creating the most effective and inexpensive sensor possible. Various dyes and aptamers were tested at a range of concentrations. The goal was to create a portable, commercially available test kit for detecting the presence of a drug in drinks or for those investigating other drug-related crimes. Circular dichroism spectrometry was used to differentiate between the enantiomers of methamphetamine and other chiral drugs which form a complex between the narcotic and a zinc-porphyrin tweezer. This is important because for many chiral drugs, the two enantiomers have completely different physiological effects. This porphyrin tweezer technology may be used to form a sensor for the different enantiomers of methamphetamine, and possibly, may be used to create a colorimetric sensor for the drug. |
|
Undergraduate Research Poster Session: Analytical Chemistry
11:00 AM-1:00 PM, Monday, April 7, 2008 Morial Convention Center -- Hall A, Poster
Division of Chemical Education |