Publications
• B.S. 1976, Michigan State University
• Ph.D. 1983, University of Michigan
• NIH Postdoctoral Fellow, 1984-1986, University of Minnesota
• President of the
American Peptide Society (2005-2007)
Research Interests
The design and synthesis of peptide and peptidomimetic analogues, primarily of opioid peptides, and examination
of structure-activity relationships by both conventional and combinatorial chemistry approaches. Exploration of
synthetic methodologies for the preparation of novel peptide and peptidomimetic analogues.
The primary focus of research in Dr. Aldrich’s laboratory is the synthesis of opioid peptide analogues. In one
project, they are synthesizing analogues of the opioid peptide dynorphin A, as kappa opioid receptor antagonists.
They are examining both the structure-activity relationships and the conformational requirements for antagonist
versus agonist activity of dynorphin A analogues. This project also involves the utilization of combinatorial
chemistry to identify novel peptides and peptidomimetics with affinity for kappa opioid receptors.
The second project involves developing appropriate synthetic strategies to incorporate reactive functionalities
and various labeling groups into peptides and synthesizing analogues of opioid peptides as affinity labels for
opioid receptors. Affinity labels bind irreversibly to their target proteins and can be valuable tools in studying
receptor –ligand interactions and receptor function. The long term goal of this research is to identify the points
of attachment of the affinity labels to opioid receptors. This will provide information at a molecular level on how
peptide ligands interact with opioid receptors.
For More Information Contact:
Dr. Jane V. Aldrich
Department of Medicinal Chemistry - KU
1251 Wescoe Hall Dr.
4050 Malott Hall
Lawrence, KS 66045-7582 USA
Phone: (785) 864-2287 fax: (785)864-5326
Email: jaldrich@ku.edu
For Graduate Program Information, email: mdcmdgs@ku.edu
