Research Projects@PeptLabSynthesis and computational methods to investigate the role of post-translational modifications in peptides involved in the immune response

Synthesis and computational methods to investigate the role of post-translational modifications in peptides involved in the immune response

Abstract: This research develops potent anti-leishmanial agents from Decoralin and its derivatives, a wasp venom peptide. To overcome structural instability, a triazole stapling strategy locks the peptide into an alpha-helical conformation. This modification enhances helicity, proteolytic stability, and membrane-targeting precision via electrostatic attraction. The derivatives induce rapid membrane disruption and parasite death while completely sparing host cells. This rational design establishes stapled Decoralin and its derivatives as a robust framework for next-generation leishmaniasis treatments.