Dept of Chemistry

DEPT OF CHEMISTRY

Researcher : An XM

List of Research Outputs

Wang J., Peng Y., Sun Y., He H., Zhu S., An X.M., Li M., Lin M.C., Zou B., Xia H.H.X., Jiang B., Chan O.O., Yuen R.M.F., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., All-Trans Retinoic Acid Induces XAF1 Expression Through an Interferon Regulatory Factor-1 Element in Colon Cancer, Gastroenterology. 2006, 130(3): 747-758.

Wang J., He H., Yu L., Xia H.H.X., Lin M.C., Gu Q., Li M., Zou B., An X.M., Jiang B., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., HSF1 down-regulates XAF1 through transcriptional regulation, Journal of Biological Chemistry. 2006, 281(5): 2451-2459.

Researcher : Brown GD

Project Title:	Gradient diffusion-attenuated NMR spectroscopy for the analysis of multi-component mixtures
Investigator(s):	Brown GD
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	12/1994

Abstract:

Spectroscopic analysis of multi-component mixtures has always required a physical separation of the components by some chromatographic technique prior to the acquisition of a characteristic spectrum from each component. In recent years there has been a poliferation of "hyphenated" techniques based on this very principle. The modern capability to generate magnetic-field gradients in NMR Spectroscopy opens up the possibility of differentiating compounds by their diffusion characteristics. The project aims to investigate whether this molecular property can be applied to resolve different components when present simultaneously in the same mixture. If successful, NMR analysis of complex mixtures would then be as simple a matter as NMR analysis of ind ividual compounds, and the need for prior chromatography will have been removed, resulting in greater simplicity and wider applicability of NMR in the analysis of multi-component mixtures.

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Chai Y

List of Research Outputs

Chai Y., Yan S.C., Wong I.L.K., Chow L.M.C. and Sun H., Complexation of antimony (Sb^V) with guanosine 5'-monophosphate and guanosine 5'-diphospho-D-mannose: Formation of both mono- and bis-adducts , Inorganic Chemistry. 2005, 99: 2257-2263.

Researcher : Chan CY

List of Research Outputs

Chan C.Y., Mass spectrometric analysis of selected glycoproteins (MPhil Thesis) . 2005.

Researcher : Chan GKY

Project Title:	Electrochmeical oxidation of glucose
Investigator(s):	Chan GKY
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Outstanding RGC Projects
Start Date:	09/1998

Abstract:

The electrochemical oxidation of glucose on some inorganic electrodes will be studied. These electrodes appeared to have better activities than others reported in the literature. Investigations are planned to identify the oxidation products and hence the mechanism of the glucose oxidation process. Furthermore kinetics studies will be made on well characterized surfaces so that the effects of surface morphology and composition on catalytic activity can be determined. The results of these studies will help in the design of better catalytic electrodes for glucose oxidation and will be used to help in the development of a glucose sensor. The applications of these electrodes as glucose sensors will be assessed. Tests will be made for determination of glucose concentration in serum. Anti-fouling, anti-interference, linearity, and selectivity of a glucose sensor using the new catalyst will be evaluated.

Project Title:	Fuel cell research towards a clean environment
Investigator(s):	Chan GKY, Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	The University of Hong Kong Foundation Seed Grant
Start Date:	03/2001

Abstract:

To accelerate and broaden existing fuel cell research, to foser external links and collaborations.

Project Title:	Controlled macroporous and mesoporous structures for gas-diffusion, gas-evolving, and fuel-cell electrodes
Investigator(s):	Chan GKY
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	08/2003

Abstract:

To synthesize and explore conducting materials with controlled nanostructures, macrostructures, and chemical composition for several electrochemical applications and their optimum performance.

Project Title:	Controlled macroporous and mesoporous structures for gas-diffusion, gas-evolving, and fuel-cell electrodes
Investigator(s):	Chan GKY
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	08/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Hydrogen Generation from Formic Acid Catalysed by Mixed Metal nanoparticles.
Investigator(s):	Chan GKY
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2005
Completion Date:	04/2006

Abstract:

To investigate the optimum composition of mixed metal nanoparticles for formic acid decomposition to generate hydrogen at low temperature. The problems of storing hydrogen safely, conveniently, and economically are limiting the use of hydrogen as a clean energy source. In-situ generation of hydrogen from a hydrocarbon liquid is an attractive means to avoid the hydrogen storage problem. A possible candidate to this approach is formic acid, which can be decomposed to hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Previous studies in literature can only achieve dehydrogenation at elevated temperature and with certain types of metal catalysts. An alternative dehydration pathway of generating water and carbon monoxide is often observed. Preliminary unpublished results in our laboratory show that bimetallic metal nanoparticles can catalyse the dehydrogenation of formic acid at low temperature. Investigations are proposed to quantify the kinetics of the two alternate pathways and hopefully determine an optimum composition and structure that will generate sufficient hydrogen at low to moderate temperature.

Project Title:	Efficient extraction of trace precious metals in industrial effluents via novel water compatible PEG/PS solid-phase separable
Investigator(s):	Chan GKY, Ng CL, Toy PH, Wong KO
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Matching Grant for Joint Research
Start Date:	11/2005

Abstract:

A process technology will be developed to recover gold and silver in waster water collected from electroplating, electronics and other industries. The challenges are to efficiently scavenge low concentrations (mg/L) of metal salts so that the final concentrations in the discharge are down to ug/L level with an economical and environmentally friendly procedure.

Project Title:	Selectivity and Transport of Ions and Water in a Silica Nanotube
Investigator(s):	Chan GKY
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Selectivity and Transport of Ions and Water in a Silica Nanotube
Investigator(s):	Chan GKY
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

To conduct computer simulations at the molecular and atomic level to investigate how ions and water interact with each other and with atoms on the silica surface; to probe and quantify the fluid-solid interactions by modeling the silica surfaces with several structural and functional group variations giving different polarity, charges, and hydrophobicity; to learn how the geometry and surface type of the nanotube will influence selectivity, diffusion, and conductivity of ions and water confined inside the nanopore.

List of Research Outputs

Liu J., Yao J.F., Wang H. and Chan G.K.Y., Fabrication of porous polymer particles with high anion exchange capacity by amination reaction in aqueous medium , Green Chemistry. 2006, 8: 386-389.

Tsang K.Y., Lee T.C., Ren J., Chan G.K.Y., Wang H.Z. and Wang H., Platinum tungsten oxide (Pt-WO₃) nanoparticles: their preparation in glycol and electrocatalytic prperties , Journal of Experimental Nanoscience . 2006, 1: 113-123.

Wang Y., Cheng S., Chan G.K.Y. and Li X.Y., Electrolytic generation of ozone on antimony - and nickel-doped tin oxide electrode , Journal of the Electrochemical Society . 2005, 152: D197-D200.

Wang Y., Cheng S. and Chan G.K.Y., Synthesis of ozone from air via a polymer-electrolyte-membrane cell with a doped tin oxide anode , Green Chemistry. 2006, 8: 568-572.

Xie Z., Li X.Y. and Chan G.K.Y., Electrochemical treatment of saline wastewater sludge liquor for nitrogen and organic removals, The International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Hawaii, U.S.A., December. 2005.

Xie Z., Li X.Y. and Chan G.K.Y., Germicidal action of electrochemical disinfection: comparison with conventional disinfection methods based on microscopic investigations, The International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Hawaii, U.S.A., December. 2005.

Yao J., Wang H., Ringer S.P., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N.P., Growth of SAPO-34 in polymer hydrogels through vapor-phase transport, Microporous and Mesoporous Materials . 2005, 85: 267-272.

Yao J., Wang H., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Incorporating organic polymer into silica walls: A novel strategy for synthesis of templated mesoporous silica with tunable pore structure, Microporous and Mesoporous Materials. 2005, 82: 183-189.

Yao J., Wang H., Liu J., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Preparation of colloidal microporous carbon spheres from furfuryl alcohol, Carbon. 2005, 43: 1709-1715.

Zhang X., Zhang F. and Chan G.K.Y., The synthesis of Pt-modified titanium dioxide thin films by microemulsion templating, their characterization and visible-light photocatalytic properties , Materials Chemistry and Physics . 2006, 97: 384-389.

Zheng X., Guan R.F., Zheng F. and Chan G.K.Y., Ordered amino-functionalized mesoporous silica thin films for high-density DNA probes , Scripta Materialia . 2006, 54: 1651-1654.

Researcher : Chan HY

List of Research Outputs

Yam V.W.W., Chan H.Y., Wong M.C. and Zhu N., Luminescent platinum(II) terpyridyl complexes: effect of counter ions on solvent-induced aggregation and color changes, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 4535-4543.

Researcher : Chan LLY

List of Research Outputs

Li X.P., Li Y.S., Li X., Ding Y., Chan L.L.Y., Yang P., Li G., Liu X., Lin J.S., Wang J., He M.L., Kung H.F., Lin M.C. and Peng Y., Inhibition of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma growth and metastasis in mice by adenovirus-associated virus-mediated expression of human endostatin, Molecular Cancer Therapeutics. 2006, 5: 1290-1298.

Researcher : Chan LY

List of Research Outputs

Li X.P., Li Y.S., Li X., Chan L.Y., Peng Y. and Lin M.C., Inhibition of Human Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Growth and Metastasis in Mice by AAV Mediated Expression of Human Endostatin, GTCbio conference: Angiogenesis Research & Therapeutics Conference. San Diego, USA; 9-10 March, 2006.. 2006.

Researcher : Chan PWH

Project Title:	Synthesis and applications of transition metal-nitrogen multiple bonded complexes in carbon-nitrogen bond formation reactions
Investigator(s):	Chan PWH, Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To develop the chemistry of highly reactive metal-nitrogen multiple bonded complexes.

List of Research Outputs

Li G.Y., Zhang J., Chan P.W.H., Xu Z., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Enantioselective intramolecular cyclopropanation of cis-alkenes by chiral ruthenium(II) schiff base catalysts and crystal structures of (Schiff base) ruthenium complexes containing carbene, PPh₃, and CO ligands , Organometallics. 2006, 25: 1676-1688.

Li J., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Aryl lodide mediated aziridination of alkenes, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5801-5804.

Wang X.S., Tang Y.Z., Huang X.F., Qu Z.R., Che C.M., Chan P.W.H. and Xiong R.G., Syntheses, crystal structures, and luminescent properties of three novel zinc coordination polymers with tetrazolyl ligands, Inorganic Chemistry. 2005, 44: 5278-5285.

Zhang J., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Enantioselective intramolecular amidation of sulfamate esters catalyzed by chiral manganese (III) Schiff-base complexes, Tetrahedron Letters. 2005, 46: 5403-5408.

Zhou C., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Gold(III) porphyrin-catalyzed cycloisomerization of allenones, Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 325-328.

Researcher : Chan PY

List of Research Outputs

Chan P.Y., Time-resolved resonance raman investigation of selected para-substituted phenylnitrenium Ions and the 2-fluorenlynitrenium Ion reaction with guanosine (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Researcher : Chan SC

List of Research Outputs

Lai S.W., Hou Y., Chan S.C., Zhang J., Che C.M., Kwok W.M. and Phillips D.L., Photo-reduction of methylviologen in alcohol solutions using luminescent platinum(II) photocatalysts, 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 15-20 December. 2005.

Researcher : Chan TK

List of Research Outputs

Wong M.K., Wong M.K., Chan T.K., Chan W.Y., Chan W.K., Vrijmoed L.L.P., O'toole D.K. and Che C.M., Dioxiranes generated in situ form pyruvates and oxone as environmentally freindly oxidizing agents for disinfection , Environmental Science & Technology . 2006, 40: 625-630.

Researcher : Chan WK

Project Title:	Hyperbranched polymeric metal complexes as novel nanomaterials
Investigator(s):	Chan WK, Djurisic A
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002
Completion Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

The study attempts to design and synthesize different AB2 typed functional metal complexes and to synthesize a series of hyperbranched polymeric metal complexes based on these monomers; to investigate the effect of reaction condition to the branching ratio and molecular weight of polymers; to deposit the polymers on different substrates and to fabricate simple optoelectronic devices from these substrates; and to investigate the optical function and other surface properties of the polymer thin films by ellipsometry and other physical techniques.

Project Title:	Fabrication of photovoltaic devices by polyelectrolyte deposition
Investigator(s):	Chan WK, Djurisic A
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	08/2003

Abstract:

To prepare a series of ionic polymers that can function as photosensitizers and charge transport materials, and can be fabricated to multilayer structures by the layer-by-layer deposition process; to modify the device structures by using different combination of sensitizers, n- and p-type charge carriers, and mixed layers; to study the photoconducting and photovoltaic properties of the devices fabricated using different light sources; to simulate the experimental results into theoretical models in order to understand different physical processes such as photo charge generation, exciton diffusion, and interference effect.

Project Title:	Fabrication of photovoltaic devices by polyelectrolyte deposition
Investigator(s):	Chan WK, Djurisic A
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	08/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Investigation of charge generation process in photoconducting polymers
Investigator(s):	Chan WK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003
Completion Date:	10/2005

Abstract:

To study the photocurrent response of some polymers that are incorporated with various photosensitizers; to simulate the experimental results by the Onsager's Theory in order to estimate the primary yield and thermalization separation distance of the thermalized hole-electron pairs.

Project Title:	Use of Transition Metal Complexes in Heterojunction Photovoltaic Devices
Investigator(s):	Chan WK, Djurisic A
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To synthesize a series of sublimable transition metal complexes that can be processed by caccuum deposition; to fabricate photovoltaic devices with different structures using the metal complexes as photosensitizers/change carriers; to optimize the device performance by fabricating devices with different structures, using different charge transport layers, or modifying the electrode surfaces; to study the roles of these complexes in photosensitization, exciton separation, exciton diffusion, and charge transport processes.

Project Title:	Use of Transition Metal Complexes in Heterojunction Photovoltaic Devices
Investigator(s):	Chan WK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Fabrication of nanostructures using functional block copolymers as the templates
Investigator(s):	Chan WK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Fabrication of nanostructures using functional block copolymers as the templates
Investigator(s):	Chan WK, Djurisic A
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

The objectives of this project are: 1. To design and synthesize functional block copolymers that can serve as the templates for subsequent nanofabrication. 2. To characterize the solid-state bulk and surface morphology of the resulting block copolymers, and to deposit various types of semiconducting nanoparticles/polyelectrolytes by the electrostatic adsorption process. 3. To fabricate photovoltaic devices based on the nanoparticles-polymer composite, and to study the device performance. 4. To fabricate two dimensional nanoparticles ensembles on a functional block copolymer surface and to study the potential of using these structures as photonic crystals, optical filters, and/or Bragg mirrors.

List of Research Outputs

Cai X., Cheng K.W., Oey C.C., Djurisic A., Chan W.K., Xie M.H. and Chui P.C., Porous metallic films fabricated by self-assembly of gold nanoparticles, Thin Solid Films. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 491: 66-70.

Chan J., Rakic A.D., Kwong C.Y., Liu Z., Djurisic A., Majewski M.L., Chan W.K. and Chui P.C., Device optimization of tris-aluminum (Alq₃) based bilayer organic light emitting diode structures, Smart Materials and Structures. Bristol, IOP Publishing Limited, 2006, 15: S92-S98.

Chan W.K., Assembly of metal containing polymer multilayer thin films and their applications in opto-electronics, 2005 Cross Strait Conference on Polymer Liquid Crystals and Supramolecular Structures, Chengdu, China, October 14-16, 2005.

Chan W.K., Fabrication of photovolatic devices by layer-by-layer polyelectrolyte deposition method, 10th International Conference on Electrical and Related Properties of Organic Solids and Polymers, Corsica, France, July 10-15, . 2005.

Chan W.K., Multifunctional metal containing polymers for opto-electronic applications , Frontier Researches on Chemical Science National Taiwan University, Taipei, January 20-21, 2006.

Chan W.K., Recent advances in using metal containing polyelectrolytes multilayer thin films for optoelectronic applications, Pacificchem 2005, Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., December 15-20, 2005.

Chan W.K., Hui C.S., Man K.K.Y., Cheng K.W., Wong H.L., Zhu N. and Djurisic A., Synthesis and photosensitizing properties of conjugated polymers that contain chlorotricarbonyl bis(phenylimino)acenaphthene rhenium(I) complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 249: 1351-1359.

Chan W.K., Man K.K.Y. and Djurisic A., Use of organometallic polyelectrolytes for multilayer thin film deposition, American Chemical Society 230th National Meeting, Washington DC, August 28-September 1, 2005. . 2005.

Cheung C.H., Djurisic A., Kwong C.Y., Chan J., Rakic A.D., Tam H.L., Cheah K.W., Liu Z., Chan W.K. and Chui P.C., Dependence of the emission from tris (8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum based microcavity on device thickness and the emission layer position, Thin Solid Films. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 489: 235-244.

Djurisic A., Wang H., Chan W.K. and Xie M.H., Characterization of block copolymers using scanning probe microscopy, Journal of Scanning Probe Microscopy. American Scientific Publishers, 2006, 1: 21-31.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Leung Y.H., Xie M.H., Chen H.Y., Wu C.L. and Gwo S., Optical properties of highly faceted ZnO rods, Journal of Applied Physics. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2006, 99: 033517: 1-6.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Phillips D.L. and Chan W.K., Stimulated emission in ZnO nanostructures: A time-resolved study, Journal of Physical Chemistry B. American Chemical Society, 2005, 109: 19228-19233.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Lin M.S. and Gwo S., Ultrafast spectroscopy of stimulated emission in single ZnO tetrapod nanowires, Nanotechnology. Bristol, IOP Publishing Limited, 2006, 17: 244-249.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Chen H.Y., Wu C.L., Gwo S. and Xie M.H., Study of excitonic emission in highly faceted ZnO rods, Chemical Physics Letters. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 412: 141-144.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved photoluminescence from ZnO nanostructures, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2005, 87: 223111: 1-3.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved photoluminescence study of the stimulated emission in ZnO nanoneedles, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2005, 87: 093108:1-3.

Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Phillips D.L., Chan W.K. and Djurisic A., Ultrafast time - and wavelength - resolved photoluminescence study of stimulated emission on selected ZnO nanostructures , International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFICHEM 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., Dec 15-20,. 2005.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Lin M.S., Gwo S. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time - and wavelength - resolved photoluminescence study of stimulated emission on selected ZnO nanostructures , The 4th Asian Conference on Ultrafast Phenomena, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, January 8-11, 2006.

Leung Y.H., Tam K.H., Djurisic A., Xie M.H., Chan W.K., Lu D. and Ge W.K., ZnO nanoshells: synthesis, structure, and optical properties, Journal of Crystal Growth. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 283: 134-140.

Li D., Leung Y.H., Djurisic A., Liu Z., Xie M.H., Gao J. and Chan W.K., CuO nanostructures prepared by a chemical method, Journal of Crystal Growth. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 282: 105-111.

Man K.K.Y., Wong H.L., Chan W.K., Djurisic A., Beach E. and Rozeveld S., Use of a ruthenium-containing conjugated polymer as a photosensitizer in photovoltaic devices fabricated by a layer-by-layer deposition process, Langmuir. American Chemical Society, 2006, 22: 3368-3375.

Oey C.C., Djurisic A., Kwong C.Y., Cheung C.H., Chan W.K., Nunzi J.M. and Chui P.C., Nanocomposite hole injection layer for organic device applications, Thin Solid Films. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 492: 253-258.

Oey C.C., Djurisic A., Wang H., Man K.K.Y., Chan W.K., Xie M.H., Leung Y.H., Pandey A., Nunzi J.M. and Chui P.C., Polymer-TiO₂ solar cells: TiO₂ interconnected network for improved cell performance, Nanotechnology. Bristol, IOP Publishing Limited, 2006, 17: 706-713.

Wang H., Djurisic A., Chan W.K. and Xie M.H., Factors affecting phase and height contrast of diblock copolymer PS-b-PEO thin films in dynamic force mode atomic force microscopy, Applied Surface Science. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 252: 1092-1100.

Wang H., Djurisic A., Xie M.H., Chan W.K. and Kutsay O., Morphology evolution of an asymmetric diblock copolymer P(S-b-MMA) as a function of film thickness and annealing time, International Journal of Nanoscience. Singapore, World Scientific, 2005, 4: 737-743.

Wang H., Djurisic A., Xie M.H., Chan W.K. and Kutsay O., Perpendicular domains in poly(styrene-b-methyl methacrylate) block copolymer films on preferential surfaces, Thin Solid Films. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 488: 329-336.

Wang H., Oey C.C., Djurisic A., Xie M.H., Leung Y.H., Man K.K.Y., Chan W.K., Pandey A., Nunzi J.M. and Chui P.C., Titania bicontinuous network structures for solar cell applications, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2005, 87: 023507:1-3.

Wong M.K., Wong M.K., Chan T.K., Chan W.Y., Chan W.K., Vrijmoed L.L.P., O'toole D.K. and Che C.M., Dioxiranes generated in situ form pyruvates and oxone as environmentally freindly oxidizing agents for disinfection , Environmental Science & Technology . 2006, 40: 625-630.

Wong M.K., Chan W.K. and Che C.M., Sterically bulky metalloporphrin - catalyzed diastereoselective epoxidation of allyl-substituted alkenes , The 230^thAmerica Chemical Society National Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 28 August, 2005 - 1 September, 2005.

Researcher : Chan WK

List of Research Outputs

Chan W.K., Multifunctional metal containing polymers for opto-electronic applications , Frontier Researches on Chemical Science National Taiwan University, Taipei, January 20-21, 2006.

Chan W.K., Recent advances in using metal containing polyelectrolytes multilayer thin films for optoelectronic applications, Pacificchem 2005, Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., December 15-20, 2005.

Researcher : Chan WS

List of Research Outputs

Chan W.S., Resonance raman, time-resolved resonance raman and density functional theory study of benzoin diethyl Phosphate, selected r hydroxy and r-methoxy substituted phenacyl ester phototrigger and model compounds (PhD Thesis). 2006.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Du Y., Kan T.W., Toy P.H. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time-resolved transient absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy study of the photodeprotection and rearrangement reactions of p-hydroxyphenacyl caged phosphates , Journal of the American Chemical Society . 2006, 128: 2558-2570.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Zuo P. and Phillips D.L., Using ultrafast time - resolved spectroscopy to investigate photo - deprotection related processes of the p-hydroxphenacyl caged phototrigger compounds, International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A.,December 15-20, 2005.

Phillips D.L., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Zuo P. and Chan W.S., Time - resolved resonance Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy studies of p-hydroxphenacyl caged photorigger compounds , International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., December 15-20, 2005.

Zuo P., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved resonance Raman and density functional theory study of deprotonation reaction of the triplet state of p-hydroxyacetophenone in water solution, Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2005, 70: 8661-8675.

Researcher : Chan WT

Project Title:	Development of a Novel Bottom-Viewed Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry
Investigator(s):	Chan WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To improve the analytical performance of bottom-viewed inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (BV-ICP); to study the characteristics of BV-ICP.

Project Title:	Study of cadmium mobility and accumulation in Viola baoshanenensis
Investigator(s):	Chan WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

To study the cadmium (Cd) mobility and accumulation in a hyperaccumulating plant, Viola baoshanensis. Specifically, Cd in different parts of the plant (root, stem and leaves) and in different phases (solid, aqueous and oil phases) will be measured. Plants of different age that are exposed to different concentration of Cd for different duration will be studied systematically.

Project Title:	Development of a Novel Bottom-Viewed Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry
Investigator(s):	Chan WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Optimization of photochemical decomposition–fluorescence (PCF) measurement of pyrethroids in vegetables and tealeaves
Investigator(s):	Chan WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

Pyrethroids refer to derivatives of pyrethrum which is a natural pesticide extracted from Chrysanthemums [1]. Pyrethroid is the largest group of environment friendly pesticides in the world. Pyrethroids are practically nontoxic to birds, but are very toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates. Pyrethroids break down rapidly in the environment to less toxic compounds. The pesticide is a viable alternative to persistent organic pesticides (POP) such as DDT. Pyrethroids, however, pose certain toxic effects on humans. Pyrethroids affect the nervous system by interacting with the sodium channels of the neuronal membranes and will lead to seizures on high dose. Pyrethroids are endocrine disruptors and may cause damage to the liver upon long-term exposure. The USEPA also identifies pyrethroids as potential carcinogens. Stringent control on the maximum residue level (MRL) in foodstuffs, especially on vegetables and agricultural products, has, therefore, imposed by various countries in recent years. For example, the European Union requirement of MRL of pyrethroids on tealeaves is 0.02–0.1 mg/Kg in Year 2000, orders of magnitude larger than the previous MRL requirement. Proper control of pyrethroid content in foodstuffs is essential, especially for the foodstuffs for export. Determination of the pyrethroid content is the first step in quality control of the foodstuffs. Determination of the pyrethroid residue on agricultural products at 0.01 mg/Kg levels requires highly sensitive instrumental methods, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) [2]. GC-MS requires tedious and meticulous extraction and cleanup processes of the analytes because of low tolerance of sample matrix by the GC column. GC-MS instruments are also relatively expensive and will add to the cost of the agricultural products, if not unaffordable to the producers / exporters. An alternative to GC separation is high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). However, the sensitivity of conventional UV-absorption detection method of HPLC does not meet the MRL requirement. False negative on pyrethroid determination will result in health hazards to the consumers of the agricultural products. False negative will also result in rejection of the products by importing countries and cause financial losses. Post-column photochemical decomposition of pyrethroids and fluorescence measurement of the decomposition products has been demonstrated to be a viable detection method of pyrethroids after HPLC separation. The method is based on the conversion of non-fluorescent analytes into strongly fluorescent photoproducts by UV irradiation. Detection limits of 0.01 mg/Kg are readily achievable [3,4]. The best limits of detection reported in the literatures are in the range of 0.01 to 0.22 μg/Kg in vegetable samples using coupled-column HPLC [5]. In addition to the high sensitivity, the post-column photochemical decomposition–fluorescence (PCF) method is attractive in that photons are used as a reagent in the derivatization reaction [4]. Introduction of photons into the HPLC eluent does not cause turbulence in the HPLC flow and will not result in band broadening of the HPLC peaks. The flux of photons can also be adjusted readily and switched off completely as necessary. Depending on the photochemical reaction and the photon flux, the reaction typically takes more than a minute to complete. A relatively large dead volume of the post-column photochemical reactor is, therefore, needed to allow for the relatively long residence time of the HPLC eluent in the reactor. To avoid significant band broadening, the reactor volume is typically reduced, in the expense of the completeness of the photochemical reaction. For example, the fluorescence intensity of the photoproducts of five pyrethroids increases monotonically as the flow rate eluting solvent reduces [3], an indication of incomplete reaction. We propose to further refine the PCF method. The decomposition conditions, e.g., wavelength and power of the light source, irradiation duration, solvent and additives, and temperature, will be optimized for maximum fluorescence intensity and minimum interference from the sample matrix. The decomposition products will be identified using mass spectrometry. Knowledge of the decomposition products and mechanism is needed to select the decomposition conditions intelligently. Photodegradation products of various environmentally important compounds, e.g., dipheyl ethers [6], have been studied using mass spectrometry. Mass spectrometric studies of photodegradation of pyrethroids, however, are lacking. The objectives of the research proposal are: 1. To develop a photoreactor for post-column pyrethroid determination. 2. To optimize the operating parameters of the photoreactor for maximum sensitivity and minimum band broadening. 3. To study the photodegradation products of pyrethroids using mass spectrometry with the aim of further optimization of the performance of the photoreactor. Reference: 1. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, “Toxicological Profile Information Sheet”, http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp155-c2.pdf, accessed on November 14, 2005. 2. Y.C. Li, J. Yi, Z.B. Bong, S.B. Zhang, and W.H. Zheng, “Determination of Cypermethrin and Fenvalerate Residues in Tea by Reversed-Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography”, J. Xiamen University (Natural Science), 2003, 42, 78-82. 3. T. López-López, M.D. Gil-Garcia, J.L. Mart´ınez-Vidal, M. Mart´ınez-Galera, “Determination of pyrethroids in vegetables by HPLC using continuous on-line post-elution photoirradiation with fluorescence detection”, Analytica Chimica Acta, 2001, 447, 101–111. 4. M. Lores, O. Cabaleiro, R. Cela, “Post-Column photochemical derivatization in high-performance liquid chromatography”, Trends Anal. Chem., 1999, 18, 392–400. 5. P. Parrilla Va´zquez, M.D. Gil Garcı´a, D. Barranco Martı´nez, M. Martı´nez Galera, “Application of coupled-column liquid chromatography combined with post-column photochemically induced fluorimetry derivatization and fluorescence detection to the determination of pyrethroid insecticides in vegetable samples”, Anal. Bioanal. Chem., 2005, 381, 1217–1225. 6. L. Sanchez-Prado, M. Llompart, M. Lores, C. Garcia-Jares, R. Cela, “Investigation of photodegradation products generated after UV-irradiation of five polybrominated diphenyl ethers using photo solid-phase microextraction”, J. Chrom. A, 2005, 1071, 85–92.

List of Research Outputs

Hui Y.N., Wang G., Lin B.C. and Chan W.T., Interface of chip-based capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (CE-ICP-AES), Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry . 2006, 21: 134-140.

Hui Y.N., Wang G., Lin B. and Chan W.T., Microwave Plasma Treatment of Polymer Surface for Irreversible Sealing of Microfluidic Devices, In: Harp Minhas, Lab on a Chip. The Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 5: 1173-1177.

Leung C.M., Jiao J.J.J., Malpas J.G., Chan W.T. and Wang Y.X., Factors affecting the groundwater chemistry in a highly-urbanized coastal area in Hong Kong: an example from the Mid-Levels area, Environmental Geology. 2005, 48(4-5): 480-495.

Yau H.P.M. and Chan W.T., A Novel Detection Scheme of Trace Elements Using ICP-MS, Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry. The Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 1197-1202.

Researcher : Chan WY

List of Research Outputs

Chan W.Y., Gadolinium complexes containing polyaminocarboxylate ligands for the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents (PhD Thesis) . 2005.

Researcher : Che CM

Project Title:	Blue light photoluminescent materials
Investigator(s):	Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Hung Hing Ying Physical Sciences Research Fund
Start Date:	02/1999

Abstract:

To design and prepare highly robust and luminous materials for fabrication of bright blue-light emitting diode (LED) devices.

Project Title:	Institute of molecular technology for drug discovery and synthesis
Investigator(s):	Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Areas of Excellence Scheme
Start Date:	11/2001

Abstract:

To pursue world-class fundamental research in Chemical Biology; to develop novel compounds for new medicine and to engender the development of local and regional pharmaceutical industries through high quality research.

Project Title:	High-valent metal complexes and their photochemical studies
Investigator(s):	Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Matching Fund for NSFC Young Researcher Award
Start Date:	01/2002

Abstract:

To study high-valent metal complexes and their photochemical studies.

Project Title:	Shanghai-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory on chemical synthesis
Investigator(s):	Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	University Research Committee / Committee on Research and Conference Grants - General Award
Start Date:	05/2002

Abstract:

To conduct research activties at Shanghai-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory on chemical synthesis

Project Title:	Oxidation chemistry of ruthenium and osmium-oxo complexes. Biomimetic oxidations and photocatalysis
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Yu WY, Miskowski VM, Chang C.K.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002
Completion Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

The project is to expand the scope of oxidation chemistry of ruthenium and osmium-oxo complexes by designing and studying the chemistry of new metal-oxo systems with targeted physical and chemical properties. The central theme of this project is to probe the oxygen atom transfer reactions involved in biomimetic and organic oxidations through studying the thermal oxidations and photochemistry of suitably designed and well-characterized ruthenium and osmium-oxo complexes.

Project Title:	Research and development of luminescent biosensors for drug screening and environmental monitoring
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Fu J.M., Wong K.Y.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Applied Research
Start Date:	11/2002

Abstract:

To optimize the luminescent materials developed by Che and co-workers for optical pH, oxygen and chlorinated hydrocarbons sensing technology; to fabricate optical biosensors using the newly developed luminescent materials; to apply the newly developed fluorescent pH/oxygen biosensors for cell viability assay, drug screening and monitoring of environmental pollutants.

Project Title:	Novel photoluminescent, sensory and photocatalytic materials derived from closed-shell metal ions and pi-conjugated organics: impact of weak intermolecular interactions and metal-functionalization upon photophysical and photochemical properties
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Lai SW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

The objective is to identify new 1-, 2- and 3- dimensional nanostructures of metal-capped oligomeric carbon materials with tunable spectroscopic properties and to develop novel applicantions in organic optoelectronics and sensory devices.

Project Title:	Novel photoluminescent, sensory and photocatalytic materials derived from closed-shell metal ions and pi-conjugated organics: impact of weak intermolecular interactions and metal-functionalization upon photophysical and photochemical properties
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Lai SW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Functional nanomaterials research
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Chan MCW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To develop new nanostructured and nanocomposite materials, based on the existing research expertise in synthetic chemistry, semiconductors, and ongoing collaborations with Chinese Academy of Sciences; to identify practical applications for newly prepared and patentable nanomaterials, such as catalysts for green chemistry and nanodevices for organic optoelectronics; to enable HKU to develop into a leading institution in nanosciences.

Project Title:	Metal-nitrogen multiple bonded complexes. Synthesis and applications in carbon-nitrogen bond formation reactions
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Tong SM, Chan PWH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To probe the mechanism of H atom abstraction and subsequent C-N bond formation by highly reactive metal-imido complexes; to develop non-porphyrin ruthenium catalysts including metal-metal bonded diruthenium systems for amidation of C-H bonds by the "PhI(OA)₂ + RNH₂ protocol; to prepare new classes of ruthenium and osmium-imido complexes other than those bearing tosylimido ligands; to explore and develop Fe catalysts containing strongly chelating polypyridine ligand systems for amidation of organic compounds; to study systematically the ruthenium-catalyzed amidation of C(sp²)-H bonds of aromatic hydrocarbons and develop its application in organic synthesis; to investigate systematically the proton-coupled electron transfer reactions of Ru-NH₂R complexes by electrochemical means.

Project Title:	Functionalized phosphorescent metal-organic materials for biomedical, photocatalytic and organic optoelectronic applications
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Lai SW, Fu W.F., Yan W.P.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	NSFC/RGC Joint Research Scheme
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To develop new classes of water-soluble phosphorescent metal-organic compounds and polymer derivatives, including those appended with polysaccharide groups, for practical applications in luminescent signaling and biomedical sciences; to develop robust polymer/matrix-supported copper(I) and platinum(II) photocatalysts for light-induced C-H bond activation and atom transfer radical addition polymerization reactions; to study the effect of π-conjugation between transition metal ions and carbon-rich organic materials upon their spectroscopic and excited-states characteristics; to develop new families of phosphorescent platinum(II) dendritic materials exhibiting tunable emission energies for organic optoelectronic applications; to prepare multinuclear Pt(II)-Ru(II) complexes which exhibit low-energy Ru(II)-to-Pt(II) and ligand-to-Pt(II) charge-transfer excited states and to study the electro-optical properties of these heterometallic compounds.

Project Title:	Photoluminescent properties and applications of luminescent d8 and d10 metal complexes with metal-metal interactions
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Yersin H.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Germany/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To exploit the photoluminescence, determined by weak meatllophilic interactions between metal ions with d8 or d10 electronic configuration, weak ligand-ligand interactions in phosphorescent organoplatinum(II) and organogold(I) complexes and intermolecular metal-ligand interactions of d8 and d10 metal species; to elucidate the electronic origin of the emission by spectroscopic methods; to apply the effects of weak interactions upon the emissive characteristics of phosphorescent metal-organic materials to the development of new operating principles for luminescent molecular sensors and nanodevices; to synthesize phosphorescent materials with potential applications in optoelectronics of OLEDs.

Project Title:	Metal-nitrogen multiple bonded complexes. Synthesis and applications in carbon-nitrogen bond formation reactions
Investigator(s):	Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Site-selective Modification of Proteins Catalyzed by Water-Soluble Transition Metal Complexes
Investigator(s):	Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2005
Completion Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

Objectives and significance of the research proposal to be undertaken Site-selective modification of proteins in aqueous medium is of significant importance in protein research and materials science, as it provides an indispensable tool for the studies of protein-protein and protein-drug interactions as well as the synthesis of novel nanoparticle-protein conjugates. Despite the great advancement of chemical synthesis in the last century, there is only a handful of synthetic methods that can be applied on the modifications of proteins (as most of the reactions are not compatible with aqueous medium). In this connection, there is a growing need for developing new reactions that can selectively modify biologically important biomolecules in aqueous medium. Transition metal catalysts are of particular interest in organic synthesis as their reactivities and selectivities can be fine-tuned by judicious choice of metal ions and structurally diverse ligands. Recently, some new transition metal-catalyzed atom/group transfer reactions have been developed for modification of peptide backbone in aqueous medium. However, only a few examples have been utilized for protein modification. We envision that to develop new reactions that can modify biomolecules in a selective manner, it is important to introduce structural motifs to the auxiliary ligands of metal-based catalysts for molecular recognition of the biomolecular targets. Over the years, we have extensively investigated metalloporphyrin-catalyzed atom/group transfer reactions. By virtue of the structural diversity of the macrocyclic ligand, steric and electronic properties of metalloporphyrin catalysts can be fine-tuned for stereo- and enantioselective reactions. We envisage that metalloporphyrins would have tremendous potential to be the future catalysts of choice for site-selective modification of biomolecules. Recently, we have developed two water-soluble ruthenium porphyrin catalysts by attaching hydrophilic groups such as glycan and polyethylene glycol (PEG) at the peripheral phenyl rings of porphyrin ligands for catalytic carbenoid reaction in aqueous medium. Preliminary results have shown that the ruthenium glycosylated porphyrin catalyst was effective for site-selective cyclopropanation of styrene-conjugated proteins including ubiquitin as confirmed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometric analysis. To our knowledge, this is the first example in which metalloporphyrins could be used to catalyze site-selective bioconjugation reactions. These modified-biomolecules would be valuable tools for proteomic and medicinal studies as well as materials science. We foresee that the application of transition metal catalysts on biomolecule modification will be the upcoming frontier area of chemical research in this century. With our existing research capability and the promising findings, we aim to (1) extend the scope of the water-soluble metalloporphyrin catalysis for site-selective protein modification research, (2) explore other carbeniod transfer reactions, and (3) apply the newly developed carbenoid transfer reactions for the conjugation of small molecules to biologically important biomolecules.

Project Title:	Strategic Theme on Drug Discovery and Synthesis
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Man RYK, Lau ASY, Li Y, Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding for Strategic Research Theme
Start Date:	05/2005

Abstract:

To enhance collaborative interdisciplinary research between Science and Medicines with objectives to develop new drug leads and/or innovative research in biomedical sciences. To establish HKU as a leading centre in synergistic, interdisciplinary research on drug discovery and synthesis.

Project Title:	New Polymeric Materials for Flexible Displays
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Yu SC, Chen XM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Applied Research
Start Date:	09/2005
Completion Date:	08/2006

Abstract:

The main theme of this proposal is to develop practical and cost effective Polymeric Light-Emitting Materials based on the phosphorescent small molecules invented at HKU for flexible displays applications. We target to apply external grants including ITF Programme based on technologies developed through this project. We will establish a platform which can facilitate the realization of PLED technology for the display companies and transfer the invented technologies including preparation and characterization to those interested companies. This proposal aims to develop the following technologies: 1) stable blue/bluish green Zn(II) polymeric materials as host for white-light displays; 2) high performance yellow/orange Pt(II) polymeric materials for WOLED applications; 3) new and environmental friendly self-assembled synthetic methods, which are inexpensive and require only simple processing for preparing polymeric materials in high yields and purities.

Project Title:	Metal-Carbon Multiple Bonded Complexes in Catalysis and Supramolecular Chemistry
Investigator(s):	Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Metal-Carbon Multiple Bonded Complexes in Catalysis and Supramolecular Chemistry
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Wong MK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	11/2005

Abstract:

Due to the shortfall of budget, spectroscopic, electronic and energy transfer studies of metal-carbon multiple bonded compounds could not be covered. The revised components of study include the followings: [1] reactive metal-carbene/alkylidyene complexes particularly the bis(carbene/alkylidene)osmium and high-valent ruthenium alkylidene complexes, [2] carbenoid transfer reactions in aqueous medium, and [3] design and synthesis of new classes of polymeric metal-containing carbon-rich materials.

Project Title:	Development of Ruthenium and Iron Catalysts for Green and Biological Oxidations
Investigator(s):	Che CM, Wong MK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

Oxidation Chemistry plays a pivotal role in biological processes and fine chemical industries, and the development of efficient, selective and environmentally friendly oxidation technologies remains a significant challenge in Chemical Sciences in the forthcoming decades. Metal-catalyzed oxidation reactions that utilizes air or hydrogen peroxide as a terminal oxidant is an area of great interest. In this context, there is a continued and growing interest in the design of oxidatively robust catalysts of ruthenium and iron. High-valent ruthenium- and iron-oxo complexes are widely known to have rich oxidation chemistry but applications of their oxidation chemistry in practical organic synthesis have yet to be achieved. Over the years, we have extensively developed metalloporphyrins as efficient catalysts in oxidation reactions. By virtue of the structural diversity of the macrocyclic ligand, steric and electronic properties of metalloporphyrin catalysts can be fine-tuned for stereo- and enantioselective oxidation reactions. We envisage that metalloporphyrins would have tremendous potential to be the future catalysts of choice for selective oxidation reactions in Chemical Industries. Recently, we have developed a practical and mild method for highly selective conversion of terminal alkenes to aldehydes catalyzed by ruthenium porphyrins. More interestingly, we have discovered that this Wacker type oxidation of alkenes can be conducted using air as oxidant. Apart from metalloporphyrin-based catalysts, we have recently prepared a series of iron(II) oligopyridyl complexes, which have been characterized by X-ray crystallography. We are delighted to find that these iron complexes are highly efficient catalysts for alkene epoxidation using Oxone as a terminal oxidant. The main objective of this project is to develop new classes of ruthenium- and iron-oxo complexes for catalytic organic oxidations using air, hydrogen peroxide or Oxone as a terminal oxidant with special emphasis to address several important problems in organic oxidations. The deliverables of this project include a collection of new oxidatively robust catalysts, application studies of ruthenium-catalyzed aerobic Wacker type oxidation of alkenes to aldehydes and iron-catalyzed selective alkene epoxidation and biological oxidation. The ultimate goal is to develop efficient and green oxidation reactions that have useful applications in practical organic synthesis and fine chemical industries.

List of Research Outputs

Chan M.L.Y., Keung W.W.Y., Leung S.W.S., Che C.M. and Man R.Y.K., Role of the nitric oxide signaling cascade in the biological actions of traditional chinese medicine, Acta Pharmacologica Sinica - 15th World Congress of Pharmacology July 2-7, 2006 Beijing, China. 2006, 2006 July; Suppl 1: 341.

Che C.M. and Yu S.C., "Electroluminescent Metallo-Supramolecules with Terpyridine-based groups", (U.S. 2004/0086744A1; PCT/CN03/00891; European Application No. 03757649.3). 2005.

Che C.M. and Sham I.H.T., Borazine-based electroluminescent materials with high thermal stability, hole and electron mobilities for electroluminescent devices., 2005, US 2005153164.

Che C.M., Cytotoxic iron(II) and ruthenium complexes with nitrogen donor ligands, Invited Speaker at the 11th Asian Chemical Congress held in Seoul, Korea, August 24-26. 2005.

Che C.M., Fellow of Federation of Asian Chemical Societies, The 11th Asian Chemical Congress, Seoul, Korea, August 24-26, 2005. 2005.

Che C.M., Zhang J., Zhang R., Huang J.S., Lai T.S., Tsui H.W.M., Zhou X.G., Zhou Z.Y., Zhu N. and Chang C.K., Hydrocarbon oxidation by b-Halogenated dioxoruthenium (VI) porphyrin camplexes: effect of reduction potential (Ru^VI/V) and C-H bond-dissociation energy on rate constants, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 7040-7053.

Che C.M., Invited Speaker: "Metal-Carbon Multiple Bonded Complexes: Bondings, Catalysis and Materials Science Applications" , The National Conferences of Coordination Chemistry and Bioinorganic Chemistry, in Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China, November 19. 2005.

Che C.M. and Lai S.W., Structural and Spectroscopic Evidence For Weak Metal-Metal Interactions and Metal-Substrate Exciplex Formations in d¹⁰ Metal Complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. Switzerland, Elsevier Science, 2005, 249: 1296-1309.

Che C.M., The 164th most cited chemist worldwide , SCI citations between 1995-2005, which represents the top 0.04% of chemists (website source: ISI Web of KnowledgeTM).. 2005.

Chen R., So M.H., Che C.M. and Sun H., Controlled synthesis of high crystalline bismuth sulfide nanorods: using bisumth citrate as a precursor, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 4540-4545.

Chen R., So M.H., Yang J., Deng F., Che C.M. and Sun H., Fabrication of bismuth subcarbonate nanotube arrays from bismuth citrate, Chemical Communications. 2006, 2265-2267.

Chui S.Y., Chen R. and Che C.M., A Chiral [2] catenane precursor of the antiarthritic Gold_(I) drug auranofin**, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2006, 45: 1621-1624.

Dai D., Xu S.J., Shi S., Xie M.H. and Che C.M., Efficient multiphoton-absorption-induced luminescence in single-crystalline ZnO at room temperature, Optics Letters. Washington, Optical Society of America, 2005, 30: 3377-3379.

Kui C.F., Chui S.Y., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Structures, photoluminescence, and reversible vapoluminescence properties of neutral platinum(II) complexes containing extended pconjugated cyclometalated ligands , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 8297-8309.

Kwan M.C., Cheng K.H., Lai P.T. and Che C.M., Enhanced Mobility for Pentacene TFT Built on NH3-Annealed Thermally Grown SiO2, Proceedings of IEEE Conference on EDSSC. Hong Kong, 2005, 567-570.

Lai S.W., Hou Y., Chan S.C., Zhang J., Che C.M., Kwok W.M. and Phillips D.L., Photo-reduction of methylviologen in alcohol solutions using luminescent platinum(II) photocatalysts, 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 15-20 December. 2005.

Leung K.Y., Tsui W.M., Huang J.S., Che C.M., Liang J. and Zhu N., Imido Transfer from Bis(imido)ruthenium(VI) Porphyrins to Hydrocarbons: Effect of Imido Substituents, C-H Bond Dissociation Energies, and RuVI/V Reduction Potentials, Journal of the American Chemical Society. Columbus, USA, American Chemical Society, 2005, 127: 16629-16640.

Li G.Y., Zhang J., Chan P.W.H., Xu Z., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Enantioselective intramolecular cyclopropanation of cis-alkenes by chiral ruthenium(II) schiff base catalysts and crystal structures of (Schiff base) ruthenium complexes containing carbene, PPh₃, and CO ligands , Organometallics. 2006, 25: 1676-1688.

Li H.Y., Lum C.T., Kung H.F., Che C.M. and Lin M.C., Genome-Wide Study Of The Anti-Tumor Effect Of Gold-1a, A Novel Chemo-Cytotoxic Agent For Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), Shanghai - Hong Kong International Liver Congress 2006; Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2006, 21 (Suppl. 2): A159.

Li J., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Aryl lodide mediated aziridination of alkenes, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5801-5804.

Li K.L.C., Sun R.W.Y., Kui C.F., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Anticancer cyclometalated [Au^III_m(C^N^C)_mL]ⁿ⁺compounds: Synthesis and cytotoxic properties , Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 5253-5266.

Li Q., Xu S.J., Dai D. and Che C.M., Two-photon excited photoluminescence in InGaN multi-quantum-wells structures, Proceeding of 2004 Conference on Optoelectronic and Microelectronic Materials and Devices, 8-10 December 2004, Australia. IEEE, 2005, 153-155.

Liu Y., Wong K.W., Ko C.B., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Synthesis and cytotoxicity studies of arternisinin derivatives containing lipophilic alkyl carbon chains , The 230^thAmerican Society National Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 28 August 2005 - 1 September 2005.

Lo K.Y., Liu Y., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Gold (III) salen complex-catalyzed synthesis of propargylamines via a theree-component coupling reaction , Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 1529-1532.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, 13th Symposium oc Chemistry Postgraduate Research In Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 17, 2006.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, Journal of Proteome Research. 2006, 5: 916-924.

Luk J.M.C., Lam C.T., Siu A.F.M., Lam B.Y.H., Ng I.O.L., Hu M.Y., Che C.M. and Fan S.T., Proteomic profiling of hepatocellular carcinoma in Chinese cohort reveals heat-shock proteins (Hsp27, Hsp70, GRP78) up-regulation and their associated prognostic values, Proteomics . 2006, 6(3): 1049-1057.

Lum C.T., Yang Z., Li H.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Fan S.T., Poon R.T.P., Lin M.C., Che C.M. and Kung H., Gold(III) compound is a novel chemocytotoxic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma, International Journal of Cancer. 2006, 118(6): 1527-1538.

Luo Y., Kwan M.C., Lai P.T. and Che C.M., Lower-voltage Pentacene Transistor with Thermal SiO2 as Gate Insulator, Proceedings of RIUPEEEC. Hong Kong, 2005, 455-458.

Ma D.L., Shum Y.T., Zhang F., Che C.M. and Yang M., Water soluble luminescent platinum terpyridine complexes wiht glycosylated acetylide and arylacetylide ligands: photoluminescent properties and cytotoxicities, Chemical Communications. 2005, 4675-4677.

Ng K.M., Che C.M., Wo S.K., Tam P.K.H. and Lau A.S.Y., Analytical Application of Acetate Anion in Negative Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry for the Analysis of Triterpenoid Saponins - Ginsenosides , Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry. John Wiley and Sons, 2006, 20: 1545 - 1550.

Phillips D.L., Che C.M., Leung K.H., Mao Z. and Tse M.C., A Comparative Study on Metal-metal Interaction in Binuclear Two- and Three-coordinated d¹⁰ -metal Complexes Spectroscopic Investigation of M(I)-M(I) Interaction in the ¹[ds*ps] Excited State of [M₂(dcpm)₂]²⁺ (dcpm = bis(dicyclohexylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) and [M₂(dmpm)₃]²⁺ (dmpm = bis(dimethylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) Complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. 2005, 249: 1476-1490.

Sham I.H.T., Kwok C.C., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Borazine materials for organic optoelectronic applications, Chemical Communications. Cambridge, U.K., Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 3547-3549.

Song L.C., Yu G., Hu Q.M., Che C.M., Zhu N. and Huang J.S., Synthesis and Characterization of the Frst Transition-Metal Fullerene Complexes Containing Bis(eta6-benzene)chromium Moieties, Journal of Organometallic Chemistry. Elsevier, 2006, 691: 787–792.

Sun R.W.Y., Lum C.T., Lin M.C., Kung H.F. and Che C.M., Gold (III) compounds as novel cytotoxic agents for hepatocellular carcinoma, Shanghai - Hong Kong International Liver Congress 2006; Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2006, 21(Suppl.2): A93-A94.

Sun R.W.Y., Chen R., Chung P.Y., Ho C.M., Lin C.L. and Che C.M., Silver nanoparticles fabricated in hepes buffer exhibit cytoprotective activities toward HIV-1 infected cells , Chemical Communications. 2005, 5059-5061.

To Y.F., Sun R.W.Y., Tam P.K.H., Che C.M. and Liu C.L., Anticancer effect of gold (III) porphyrin in nasopharyngeal carcinoma., 97th Annual Meeting of American Association for Cancer Research, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 1-5 April 2006.

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors , Proceeding of SPIE. 2005, 5940: 5940IL.1401L.7.

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors, In: The SPIE society, Proceedings of the SPIE International Society for Opical Engineering. 2005, 5490: 54901L.

Wang X.S., Tang Y.Z., Huang X.F., Qu Z.R., Che C.M., Chan P.W.H. and Xiong R.G., Syntheses, crystal structures, and luminescent properties of three novel zinc coordination polymers with tetrazolyl ligands, Inorganic Chemistry. 2005, 44: 5278-5285.

Wang Y., He Q., Sun R.W.Y., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Gold(III) porphyrin 1a induced apoptosis by mitochondrial death pathways related to reactive oxygen species , Cancer Research. 2005, 65: 11553-11564.

Wang Y., Sun R.W.Y., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Probing ruthenium - acetylide bonding interactions: synthesis, electrochemistry, and spectroscopic studies of acetylide-ruthenium complexes supported by tetradentate macrocyclic amine and diphosphine ligands , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 13997-14007.

Wang Y., He Q., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Proteomic Characterization of the Cytotoxic Mechanism of Gold(III) Porphyrin 1a, an Potential Anticancer Drug, Proteomics. 2006, 6: 131-142.

Wang Y., Cheung Y.H., Yang Z., Chiu J., Che C.M. and He Q., Proteomic approach to study the cytotoxicity of dioscin (saponin), Proteomics. 2006, 6: 2422-2432.

Wong E.L.M., Sun R.W.Y., Chung P.Y., Lin C.L., Zhu N. and Che C.M., A mixed-valent ruthenium-Oxo Oxalato cluster Na₇[Ru₄(m₃-O)₄(C₂O₄)₆] with potent anti-HIV activities, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 4398-4399.

Wong E.L.M., Fang G.S., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Highly cytotoxic iron(II) complexes with pentadentate pyridyl ligands as a new class of anti-tumor agents, Chemical Communications. 2005, 4578-4580.

Wong M.K., Wong M.K., Chan T.K., Chan W.Y., Chan W.K., Vrijmoed L.L.P., O'toole D.K. and Che C.M., Dioxiranes generated in situ form pyruvates and oxone as environmentally freindly oxidizing agents for disinfection , Environmental Science & Technology . 2006, 40: 625-630.

Wong M.K., Chan W.K. and Che C.M., Sterically bulky metalloporphrin - catalyzed diastereoselective epoxidation of allyl-substituted alkenes , The 230^thAmerica Chemical Society National Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 28 August, 2005 - 1 September, 2005.

Wong S.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Chung P.Y., Lin C.L. and Che C.M., Physiologically stable vandadium (IV) porphyrins as a new class of Anti-HIV agents, Chemical Communications. 2005, 3544-3546.

Xu H.W., Li G.Y., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Asymmetric synthesis of multifunctionalized pyrrolines by a ruthenium porphyrin-catalyzed three-component coupling reaction , Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5349-5352.

Xu S.J., Li G., Xiong S. and Che C.M., Temperature dependence of the LO phonon sidebands in free exciton emission of GaN, Journal of Applied Physics. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2006, 99: 073508: 1-5.

Yip W.P., Yu W.Y., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Alkene cis-Dihydroxylation by [(Me₃tacn)(CF₃CO₂)Ru^VIO₂]CIO₄(Me₃tacn = 1,4,7-Trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane); Structural characterization of [3+2] cycloadducts and kinetic studies, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 14239-14249.

Yu M.S., Leung K.Y., Lai S.W., Che C.M., Zee S.S.Y., So K.F., Yuen W.H. and Chang R.C.C., Neuroprotective effects of anti-aging oriental medicine Lycium barbarum against bamyloid peptide neurotoxicity, Experimental Gerontology. 2005, 40: 716-727.

Zhang J., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Enantioselective intramolecular amidation of sulfamate esters catalyzed by chiral manganese (III) Schiff-base complexes, Tetrahedron Letters. 2005, 46: 5403-5408.

Zhang J., Huang J.S. and Che C.M., Oxidation chemistry of poly(ethylene glycol)-supported carbonylruthenium(II) and dioxoruthenium(VI) meso-tetrakis (pentafluorophenyl) porphyrin, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 3020-3031.

Zhang R., Yu W.Y. and Che C.M., Catalytic enantioselective oidation of aromatic hydrocarbons with D₄symmetric chiral ruthenium porphyrin catalysts , Tetrahedron: Asymmetry. 2005, 16: 3520-3526.

Zhou C., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Gold(III) porphyrin-catalyzed cycloisomerization of allenones, Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 325-328.

Researcher : Chen B

List of Research Outputs

Chiu P., Geng Z. and Chen B., Total synthesis of pseudolaric acids A and B, Keynote Lecture of The 4^th Singapore International Chemistry Conference (SICC-4), Singapore, December 8-10. 2005, 81-OS-A0396.

Researcher : Chen F

List of Research Outputs

Chen F. and Yang D., Condensation of amino acids to form peptides in aqueous solution induced by the Oxidation of Sulfur(IV), The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006.

Chen F. and Yang D., Condensation of amino acids to peptides in aqueous solution induced by the oxidation of sulfur(IV) -- An oxidative model for prebiotic peptide formation , The 231^st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30, 2006.

Researcher : Chen F

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Chen G

Project Title:	A first-principles method for calculating STM images of nanoscale molecular systems and its application to alkyl substituted phthalocyanines and porphyrins
Investigator(s):	Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002

Abstract:

The objective of the project is to develop an efficient first-principles method to calculate the scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) images of nonoscale molecular systems and thus build an important tool in the reearch and development of nanotechnology.

Project Title:	Towards the first-principles simulation of open systems
Investigator(s):	Chen G, Yan Y.J.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003
Completion Date:	08/2006

Abstract:

To develop a first-principles quantum dissipation theory (QOT) to simulate the optical and electric processes of real open systems; to develop and implement time-dependent density-functional theory (TDDFT) based quantum dissipation theory (TDDFT-QOT).

Project Title:	Towards the first-principles simulation of open systems
Investigator(s):	Chen G, Yan Y.J.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	First-principles quantum mechanical methods as predictive tools in materials design: neural networks approach
Investigator(s):	Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2004

Abstract:

To employ Neural-Networks-based algorithms to improve greatly the accuracies of the first-principles quantum mechanical methods; to reduce the numerical errors within 1 to 2 kcal/ mol, i.e. the chemical accuracy; to combine the artificial intelligence and the first-principles quantum mechanical methods; to have profound impacts to computational chemistry and physics; to pave the way for the first-principles quantum mechanical methods to be employed as practical tools in materials design and research.

Project Title:	Theoretical Investigation and Computer Simulation of Carbon-Nanotube-Based Devices: Gigahertz Oscillators, Field Emitters and Tweezers
Investigator(s):	Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2004

Abstract:

To explore potential electric and mechanical applications of CNTs; to design new types of nanomechanical devices as operative tools for manipulating atoms and molecules; to contribute to the advancements of nanoscopic science and technology.

Project Title:	Efficient linear scaling methods for optical properties of nanoscale material systems
Investigator(s):	Chen G, Frauenheim T.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Germany/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To develop linear-scaling quantum mechanical methods to simulate complex molecular systems such as nanotubes, nanowires, polymer films, surface, interfaces and biological molecules; to apply the resulting methods to examine the charge transport, optical and magnetic properties of nanotubes and nanowires and the photophysical processes in biological molecules.

Project Title:	Theoretical Investigation and Computer Simulation of Carbon-Nanotube-Based Devices: Gigahertz Oscillators, Field Emitters and Tweezers
Investigator(s):	Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Theoretical investigation of Zinc Oxide nanobelts and nanodevices
Investigator(s):	Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	06/2005

Abstract:

In this project, first-principles quantum mechanics and molecule mechanics methods will be employed to calculate the electronic structures of ZnO nanobelts and to help understand the structural basis of the unique physical properties of ZnO belts. The findings are expected to provide the useful guidance for ZnO nanobelts as potential constituents of nanodevices.

Project Title:	Theoretical investigation of carbon-nanotube-based nanoelectromechanical systems
Investigator(s):	Chen G, Zheng QS, Zhao Y, Jiang Q
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	NSFC/RGC Joint Research Scheme
Start Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

To understand physical properties of the CNT-based nano-components, to design and simulate novel CNT-based NEMS devices and to examine NEMS thermodynamic behavior and fundamental laws of statistical mechanics and thermodynamics at nanoscopic scales.

Project Title:	A novel numerical algorithm for prediction of 3D protein structures
Investigator(s):	Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

The proposed work is to help resolve an important open question in life science, the prediction of protein three-dimensional structures. Due to recent developments in masspec and various sequencing technolgies, the determination of the primary sequences od proteins is not as difficult as before. However, determining their three-dimensional structures remains a challenge. Our objective is to develop a novel numerical algorithm to predict the three dimensional structures of proteins. An emerging view holds that protein folding is determined by the characristic kinetics of protein dynamics. The initial step of protein folding is the formation of secondary structures. This occurs within nano-seconds and is then followed by a hydrophobic collapse of proteins to their globular structures. The time scale of the hydrophobic collapse is from nano-seconds to micro-seconds. Finally, the globular structures re-adjust themselves, which may take more than seconds. Our proposed numerical algorithm is based on this emerging view of protein folding. The first step of our calculation is to determine the secondary structures from the primary sequence via homology modeling. Homology modeling has been employed to predict the tertiary structures of proteins. Due to the limited available known protein structures, homology modeling has only been applied successfully to small number of proteins. On the other hand, there are enough data on secondary structures that can be used for prediction of almost any secondary structures from the primary sequences. Homology modeling of secondary structures is thus expected to be highly successful. The second step of our calculation is to determine the globular structures. This can be achieved by a number of approaches, for instance, fixing the secondary structures while carrying our molecular dynamics simulations, or simplifying the interactions within the proteins by hydrophobic and hydrophillic interactions only. With such approaches, the degrees of freedom are reduced drastically, and thus it would be straight forward to predict the globular structures due to hydrophobic collapsing. Final step of our calculation is annealing which can be carried out by molecular dynamics simulation. Besides developing the algorithm, we plan to develop a computer program as well. The resulting program reads the primary sequence of any protein and predicts several three-dimensional structures of the protein. Each predicted structure carries a confidence score. It is our expectation that our program will become one of the standard programs that researchers will use to predict or interpret the tertiary structures of proteins in a near future.

Project Title:	Towards the chemical accuracy: Combining first-principles methods and Neural Networks
Investigator(s):	Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Towards the chemical accuracy: Combining first-principles methods and Neural Networks
Investigator(s):	Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

In the proposed research, we develop the highly accurate first-principles quantum mechanical methods that systematically correct these inherent errors and thus yield the results of chemical accuracy. It is our objective that the resulting methods are quantitatively accurate and can be employed routinely as predict tools in chemistry, condensed matter physics, and materials science and engineering.

List of Research Outputs

Duan X.M., Li Z.H., Song G.L., Wang W.N., Chen G. and Fan K.N., Neural network correction for heats of formation with a larger experimental training set and new descriptors , Chemical Physics Letters . 2005, 410: 125-130.

Hu L., Chen G. and Chau R.M.W., A neural networks-based drug discovery approach and its application for designing aldose reductase inhibitors , Journal of Molecular Graphics and Modelling. 2006, 24: 244-253.

Ma C.C., Zhao Y., Yam C.Y., Chen G. and Jiang Q., A tribological study of double-walled and triple-walled carbon nanotube oscillators, Nanotechnology. UK, Institute of Physics Publishing, 2005, 16: 1253-1264.

Peng J., Li Z.B., He C.S., Deng S.Z., Xu N.S., Zheng X. and Chen G., Quantum mechanical understanding of field dependence of the apex barrier of a single-wall carbon nanotube , Physical Review B. 2005, 72: 235106-1 to 235106-8.

Shi S., Li G., Xu S.J., Zhao Y. and Chen G., Green luminescence band in ZnO: Fine structures, electron-phonon coupling, and temperature effect, Journal of Physical Chemistry B. American Chemical Society, 2006, 110: 10475-10478.

Shi S., Xu S.J., Wang X. and Chen G., Theoretical absorption spectra of silicon carbide nanocrystals, Thin Solid Films. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2006, 495: 404-406.

Wan C.S., Li Z.H., Fan K.N., Zheng X. and Chen G., Effect of temperature on field emission from a micrometer-long single-walled carbon nanotube, Physical Review B. 2006, 73: 165422-1 to 165422-6.

Wong L.H., Zhao Y., Chen G. and Chwang A.T.Y., Grooving the carbon nanotube oscillators, Applied Physics Letters. 2006, 88: 183107-1 to 183107-3.

Xu S.J., Li G., Wang Y., Zhao Y., Chen G., Zhao D.G., Zhu J.J., Yang H., Yu D.P. and Wang J.N., Quantum dissipation and broadening mechanisms due to electron-phonon interactions in self-formed InGaN quantum dots, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2006, 88: 083123: 1-3.

Zhang M., Su Z.M., Yan L.K., Qiu Y.Q., Chen G. and Wang R.S., Theoretical interpretation of different nanotube morphologies among group III(B,A1,Ga) nitrides, Chemical Physics Letters. 2005, 408: 145-149.

Zhao Y., Ma C.C., Wong L.H., Chen G., Xu Z.P., Zheng Q.S., Jiang Q. and Chwang A.T.Y., Energy Exchanges in Carbon Nanotube Oscillators, Nanotechnology. UK, Institute of Physics Publishing, 2006, 17: 1032-1035.

Researcher : Chen H

List of Research Outputs

Chen H. and Yang D., AgBF₄ catalyzed stereoselective 1,6-Enyne cyclization - fluorination reactions, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Chen H. and Yang D., Stereo-selective fluorination via AgBF₄-catalyzed 1,6-enyne cyclization reaction , The 231st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30. 2006.

Researcher : Chen H

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Chen R

List of Research Outputs

Chen R., So M.H., Che C.M. and Sun H., Controlled synthesis of high crystalline bismuth sulfide nanorods: using bisumth citrate as a precursor, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 4540-4545.

Chen R., So M.H., Yang J., Deng F., Che C.M. and Sun H., Fabrication of bismuth subcarbonate nanotube arrays from bismuth citrate, Chemical Communications. 2006, 2265-2267.

Chui S.Y., Chen R. and Che C.M., A Chiral [2] catenane precursor of the antiarthritic Gold_(I) drug auranofin**, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2006, 45: 1621-1624.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, 13th Symposium oc Chemistry Postgraduate Research In Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 17, 2006.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, Journal of Proteome Research. 2006, 5: 916-924.

Sun R.W.Y., Chen R., Chung P.Y., Ho C.M., Lin C.L. and Che C.M., Silver nanoparticles fabricated in hepes buffer exhibit cytoprotective activities toward HIV-1 infected cells , Chemical Communications. 2005, 5059-5061.

Researcher : Chen R

List of Research Outputs

Chen R., So M.H., Che C.M. and Sun H., Controlled synthesis of high crystalline bismuth sulfide nanorods: using bisumth citrate as a precursor, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 4540-4545.

Chen R., So M.H., Yang J., Deng F., Che C.M. and Sun H., Fabrication of bismuth subcarbonate nanotube arrays from bismuth citrate, Chemical Communications. 2006, 2265-2267.

Chui S.Y., Chen R. and Che C.M., A Chiral [2] catenane precursor of the antiarthritic Gold_(I) drug auranofin**, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2006, 45: 1621-1624.

Researcher : Cheng CC

List of Research Outputs

Cheng C.C., Lo W.Y., Yip S.K., Zhu N., Yuan L. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Soluble Polynuclear Gold(I) Chalcogenido and Alkynyl Aggregates, Abstract in the Pacifichem 2005 conference, Honolulu, USA, 15-20 December, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. E.C.C. Cheng). 2005.

Lam C.F., Yam V.W.W., Wong M.C., Cheng C.C. and Zhu N., Synthesis and characterization of luminescent rhenium(I) -- platinum(II) polypyridine bichromophoric alkynyl-bridged molecular rods, Organometallics. 2005, 24: 4298-4305.

Li C.K., Cheng C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent phosphinocrown-containing gold (I) complexes: Their syntheses, spectroscopic studies and host-guest chemistry, Inorganica Chimica Acta . 2005, 358: 4191-4200.

Lu X.X., Cheng C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, luminescence and ion-binding properties of palladium(II) complexes with 1,2-bis[benzo-15-crown-5)phosphino]ehtane (dbcpe), Dalton Transactions. 2006, 1803-1806.

Yu S.Y., Zhang Z.X., Cheng C.C., Li Y.Z., Yam V.W.W., Huang H.P. and Zhang R., A chiral luminescent Au₁₆ ring self-assembled from achiral components, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 17994-17995.

Researcher : Cheng KH

List of Research Outputs

Kwan M.C., Cheng K.H., Lai P.T. and Che C.M., Enhanced Mobility for Pentacene TFT Built on NH3-Annealed Thermally Grown SiO2, Proceedings of IEEE Conference on EDSSC. Hong Kong, 2005, 567-570.

Researcher : Cheng KW

List of Research Outputs

Cai X., Cheng K.W., Oey C.C., Djurisic A., Chan W.K., Xie M.H. and Chui P.C., Porous metallic films fabricated by self-assembly of gold nanoparticles, Thin Solid Films. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 491: 66-70.

Chan W.K., Hui C.S., Man K.K.Y., Cheng K.W., Wong H.L., Zhu N. and Djurisic A., Synthesis and photosensitizing properties of conjugated polymers that contain chlorotricarbonyl bis(phenylimino)acenaphthene rhenium(I) complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 249: 1351-1359.

Researcher : Cheng KW

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Cheng S

List of Research Outputs

Wang Y., Cheng S., Chan G.K.Y. and Li X.Y., Electrolytic generation of ozone on antimony - and nickel-doped tin oxide electrode , Journal of the Electrochemical Society . 2005, 152: D197-D200.

Wang Y., Cheng S. and Chan G.K.Y., Synthesis of ozone from air via a polymer-electrolyte-membrane cell with a doped tin oxide anode , Green Chemistry. 2006, 8: 568-572.

Researcher : Cheung ASC

Project Title:	Catalytic reaction in a supersonic nozzle beam: CO₂ reforming of CH₄
Investigator(s):	Cheung ASC, Au C.T.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2002
Completion Date:	11/2005

Abstract:

This project is to study catalytic reactions in a short time sacle rather than traditionally at equilibrium. Specifically, it studies the catalytic reaction of converting carbon dioxide and methane to valuable synthesis gas with transition metal based catalyst.

Project Title:	Laser Jet Spectroscopy of Low-lying Electronic States of Group III-V Diatomic Molecules
Investigator(s):	Cheung ASC
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2004

Abstract:

To record the electronic transition spectrum of some selected gas-phase Group III-V diatomic molecules in the visible and NIR spectral regions; to analyze the electronic transition spectrum recorded for some-selected Group III-V diatomic molecules and determine their molecular structure. Reasons for the change: the change from covering the UV. visible and NIR spectral regions of the Group III-V diatomic molecules to only the visible and NIR regions of some selected Group III-V diatomic molecules is necessary because, at the present funding level, resource is insufficient for us to tackle the whole spectral region and most of the Group III-V molecules as proposed.

Project Title:	Optical-optical double resonance spectroscopy of transition metal compounds
Investigator(s):	Cheung ASC
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005
Completion Date:	12/2006

Abstract:

The objective of the proposed investigation is to study the high-lying electronic transitions of transitional metal compounds. It is proposed to combine laser vaporization/reaction free jet expansion source for producing the metal compound in gas-phase and optical-optical double resonance (OODR) spectroscopy to study electronic states near the dissociation limit. The goal of this research is to determine the vibrational and rotational, constants for electronic transitions of transition metal compounds. Supersonic expansion is a well-known technique for cooling the internal degrees of freedom of molecules far below the normal boiling point, while maintaining the molecule in gas-phase. Recently, this technique has been combined with laser vaporization/reaction source to produce high-boiling point transition metal compounds and dimers. A localized pulse heating of the metal or metallic compound by focused laser irradiation is technically superior to the extreme temperatures required to vaporize metal compounds. An intense pulse beam source of gas mixtures provides chemicals for the reaction with vaporized metal atom. The technique of laser vaporization/reaction with supersonic expansion has been proven to be successful in forming metallic compounds in gas-phase at low temperature. In OODR spectroscopy, two photons of different wavelength undergo absorption in a three-level system. Both of these photons are either from the near infrared, visible or ultra violet or each is from a different one of these spectral regions. When these two photons are arranged to pass each other in opposite directions, a spectrum with sub-Doppler resolution could be obtained. The OODR process with two photons absorption in two steps reaching for the high-lying electronic state is called cascade OODR process, which permits the study of these high-lying electronic states that are not reachable either because of symmetry characteristics from the ground state or due to limitation in photon energy with only one photon. The molecules excited are those in the specific lower level to upper levels of various electronic states, so excitation is selective for this transition or a group of transitions. Spectroscopy involving a double resonance technique in which transitions are detected through fluorescence is of advantages. This is because in the optical region the detection of fluorescence photon against a background of zero or little scattered laser light is intrinsically much more sensitive than the detection of direct absorption of laser light. The applicant has an on-going programme and long history of studying transition metal containing species in the visible and near infrared region using laser induced fluorescence techniques with an argon ion pump dye laser system. It is proposed here to combine the laser vaporization/reaction supersonic expansion technique with OODR spectroscopy to study electronic transitions of transition metal compounds. Such a combined approach should be fruitful for studying the high-energy electronic states because it solves the problem of getting the high melting point compounds in the gas-phase and performing high-resolution study. In this project, a widely tunable pulsed dye laser and narrow linewidth laser source will be used to excite the metal compound molecules and the detection is by fluorescence spectroscopy. Most of the high-lying electronic transitions of transition metal compounds are not known, once these molecules are produced in a supersonic jet, an extensive spectral search for the electronic transitions is necessary.

Project Title:	Laser Jet Spectroscopy of Low-lying Electronic States of Group III-V Diatomic Molecules
Investigator(s):	Cheung ASC
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Photochemical conversion of methane to methanol
Investigator(s):	Cheung ASC
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Laser spectroscopy of metallic compounds in a pulsed plasma expansion
Investigator(s):	Cheung ASC
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

The objective of this investigation is to study the low-lying electronic transitions of metal compounds. It is proposed to combine direct current (DC) discharge and free jet expansion source for producing the metal compounds in gas-phase and using cavity ring down (CRD) spectroscopy to study electronic transitions in the near infrared spectral region. The goal of this research is to determine the molecular vibrational and rotational constants for electronic transitions of metal compounds. The electronic transition spectrum of gas-phase metal compounds is a topic of great interest in many branches of chemistry and physics [1]. Bonding between a ligand is of great importance in chemistry because of the role it plays in homogenous and heterogeneous catalytic processes [2]. In addition, metal compounds have been found in the circumstellar envelops of M-type stars, making these species of interest to the astrophysical community as well [3,4,5]. Searching and detection of gas-phase of metal compounds in stellar objects rely heavily on laboratory measurements of their electronic transition or rotational spectrum for identifying particular transition frequencies to aid the search. Unfortunately, transition frequencies for these carbide molecules are generally not available. We hope to be able to provide such transition information for the astronomy community to search for them. Detection of any of the metallic diatomic molecules would have broad implication for nucleosynthesis, dust grain composition and gas-phase chemistry in circumstellar materials Many metal compounds are high temperature molecules and their production usually require high temperature environment. The usual hot oven technique presents difficulties in the vaporization of these high temperature compounds. Even though thermal excitation could produce these metal compounds in gas phase, the thermal distribution of these molecules at high temperature will greatly complicate the absorption or emission spectra obtained. Supersonic expansion is a well-known technique for cooling the internal degrees of freedom of molecules far below the normal boiling point, while maintaining the molecules in gas phase. Recently, this method has been combined with laser vaporization/reaction source to produce high boiling transition metal compounds [6,7]. High voltage direct-current (DC) pulsed discharge has also proven to be a versatile technique in producing carbon-containing molecules [8,9]. Early work in DC pulsed discharge indicated that the production of molecular species and production efficiency is extremely sensitive to the discharge voltage applied, discharge timing, the compositions of sample gas and so on. It is possible to generate different species under various conditions [8]. We plan to build a DC pulsed discharge assembly in this project at the exit of the free jet expansion molecular source. The cavity ring down spectroscopy (CRDS), using pulsed tunable lasers, has proven to be a highly sensitive absorption technique. Since its introduction [10], CRDS has resulted in applications to chemical problems ranging from surface phenomena to process measurements in plasmas and plumes, to atmospheric studies and to a wide range of chemical kinetics studies. This novel type of long path-length measurement is based upon the measurement of the rate of absorption rather than the magnitude of absorption of a light pulse confined within a closed cell cavity. By measuring the decay time, this technique overcomes known stability and intensity variation problems encountered with pulse lasers. CRDS is one of the most sensitive absorption techniques presently available. Studies of various reaction intermediates and products using CRDS have been reported in a review by Busch and Busch [11]. Even thought laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) spectroscopy is one the most sensitive laser spectroscopic technique available for studying electronic transition, but in the NIR region LIF is not that useful because of the lack of very sensitive detector. The advantage of the CRDS using multi-pass absorption technique in the NIR spectral region is obvious. In this project, electronic transition spectrum of metal compounds in the NIR will be recorded using CRDS. References: [1] J. F. Harrison, Chem. Rev. 100, 679 (2000). [2] W.A. Nugebt and J.M. Mayer, “Metal Ligand Multiple Bonds”, Wiley-Interscience, New York, 1988. [3] M.A. Brewster and L.M. Ziurys, Astrophys. J. Lett. 559, L163, (2001). [4] G. van Helden, A.G. Tielens, M.A. Duncan, L.B. Waters,and G. Meijer, Science 288, 313 (2000) [5] R.R. Joyce, K.H. Hinkle, L. Wallace, M. Dulick and D.L. Lambert, Astrophys. J. 116, 2520 (1998). [6] S. Maruyama, L.R. Suderson, R.E. Smalley, Rev. Sci. Instrum., 61, 3686 (1990). [7] A. S-C. Cheung, Q. Ran, W.S Tam, D. K-W. Mok, P.M. Yeung, J. Mol. Spectrosc. 203, 96 (2000). [8] Y. Ohshima and Y. Endo, J. Mol. Spectrosc. 153, 627 (1992) [9] T.C. Smith, H. Li, D.J. Clouthier C.T, Kingston and A.J. Merer, J. Chem. Phys.112, 3663 (2000) [10] J. J. Scherer, J. B. Paul, A. O’Keefe and R. J. Saykally, Chem. Rev, 97, 25 (1997). [11] K. W. Busch and M. A. Busch, Cavity Ring Down Spectroscopy ACS series 720, ACS, Washington. DC. USA, 1999.

List of Research Outputs

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂ reforming , Catalysis Letters. 2006, 108: 37-44.

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂, International Symposium on molecular Spectcoscopy, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., June 19-23, 2006. Poster No. RB06.

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂reforming , "Modern Development in Spectroscopy" Tulip Summer School, Noordwijk, The Netherlands, April 26-29, 2006. Poster No: 7.

Ye J., Pang H.F. and Cheung A.S.C., Optical-optical double resonance spectroscopy of yttrium monohalides , International Symposium on Molecular Spectroscopy, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., June 19-23, 2006. Poster No. RH11.

Yoshino K., Thome A.P., Murray J.E., Cheung A.S.C., Wong A.L. and Imajo T., The application of a vacuum-ultraviolet Fourier transform spectrometer and synchrotron-radiation source to measurements of bands of No.VII. The final report, The Journal of Chemical Physics. 2006, 124: 054323-1 - 054323-22.

Researcher : Cheung KK

List of Research Outputs

Guan X., Tse M.K., Yang Y., Sze K.H., Cheung K.K. and Wong K.B., Study of the structure and dynamics of a thermophilic acylphosphatase from Pyrococcus horikoshii by NMR spectroscopy, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005. PO-08, p.24.

Lo K.W.W., Hui W.K., Chung C.K., Chung C.K., Tsang K.H.K., Ng D.C.M., Zhu N. and Cheung K.K., Biological labelling reagents and probes derived from luminescent transition metal polypyridine complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. 2005, 249: 1434-1450.

Researcher : Cheung WKA

List of Research Outputs

Cheung W.K.A., Investigation of probe insertion effects on plasma excitation conditions in direct sample insertion-inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (PhD Thesis). 2005.

Researcher : Chiu J

Project Title:	Regulation of [alpha]-fetoprotein gene expression in differentiating and cancer cells
Investigator(s):	Chiu J
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002
Completion Date:	12/2006

Abstract:

The project attempts to: (1) Identify and characterize DAS-binding protein (DAP) that regulate [alpha]-fetoprotein expression; (2) Investigate the specific DNA binding activity and biological function of DAP. The biological function will be determined by using various mutant genes, DAP antisense sequence and transcription factor decoys; (3) Identify other genes that are regulated by the DAS cis-element through a computer-assisted analysis of the genomic sequences in GenBank; and (4) Investigate the expression of these candidate genes in F9 cells during differentiation, and in developing liver cells and hepatomas.

Project Title:	Biochemical and proteomic analyses of arsenic carcinogenesis
Investigator(s):	Chiu J, Leung SY, He Q
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To establish and examine the processes of in vitro carcinogenesis induced by arsenic; to identify key elements of oxidative stress that involve in arsenic-induced cell transformation by biochemical and proteomic approaches; to determine which signaling pathway that mediates arsenic-induced cell transformation by proteomic approach.

Project Title:	Biochemical and proteomic analyses of arsenic carcinogenesis
Investigator(s):	Chiu J, Leung SY, He Q
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Synergistic interaction of arsenic and HBV in the etiopathogenesis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Investigator(s):	Chiu J
Department:	Anatomy
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Chiu P

Project Title:	Applications of copper hydride reductions to organic synthesis
Investigator(s):	Chiu P
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	07/2002

Abstract:

The project will examine substrates including alkynones and nitroalkenes, that will undergo stereoselective reductive aldol reaction to achieve new motifs in the products. Intermolecular aldol reaction will be developed to make the protocol more generally applicable to organic synthesis. Efforts will be devoted to achieve a catalytic reductive aldol reaction, which will make this reaction more economical and environmentally sound.

Project Title:	Intramolecular cycloadditions of sulfonyl-activated substrates
Investigator(s):	Chiu P, Metz P.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Germany/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme
Start Date:	01/2004
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

To devise a synthetic route toward diazoketones which contain a vinylsulfonate as dipolarophile; to examine the reactivity and diastereoselectivity of metal catalyzed carbene cyclization-cycloaddition of these substrates; to examine the ring opening reactions of the heterocyclic products of cycloadditions; to apply these results in the enantioselective synthesis of biologically active natural products such as ferutinin and tenuferidin.

Project Title:	Synthetic Studies toward Guanacastepene A
Investigator(s):	Chiu P, Toy PH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	08/2004

Abstract:

To study the carbene cyclization cycloaddition cascade reaction and its application to the synthesis of the BC ring system of guanacastepene A; to synthesize and characterize monomers and polymers bearing arsine residues; to evaluate the use of immobilized arsines in organic synthesis, and its application to the synthesis of guanacastepene; to use of Nazarov cyclization strategy to elaborate the BC ring system to the ABC rings of guanacastepene; to engage in studies toward the asymmetric total synthesis of guanacastepene A.

Project Title:	Reactions of novel diazoketones
Investigator(s):	Chiu P
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

1. To investigate the synthesis of beta-hydroxy-α-diazoketones 2. To synthesize structurally novel beta-hydroxy-α-diazoketones 3. To explore the reactivity of beta-hydroxy-α-diazoketones, particularly as metal carbene precursors, and their applications in organic synthesis

Project Title:	Synthetic Studies toward Guanacastepene A
Investigator(s):	Chiu P
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Investigations on the reduction of activated dienes
Investigator(s):	Chiu P
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

1. To explore reaction conditions to reduce activated alkenes 2. To investigate catalytic reduction reactions for activated alkenes.

Project Title:	Study, design, and synthesis of pseudolaric acid derivatives as anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor agents
Investigator(s):	Chiu P
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2006
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

List of Research Outputs

Chan M.C.W., Tam K.H., Zhu N., Chiu P. and Matsui S., Synthesis, structures, and olefin polymerization characteristics of Group 4 [Zr{OAr)₂py}Cl₂(D)] (D = O-Donors, CI[HPR₃]) supported by tridentate Pyridine-2,6-bis (aryloxide) Ligands, Organometallics. 2006, 25: 785-792.

Chiu P., Application of the carbene cyclization-cycloaddition cascade in total synthesis , Pure and Applied Chemistry . 2005, 77: 1183-1189.

Chiu P., Leung L.T. and Leung S.K., Copper-catalyzed hydrostannation of activated alkynes, The 13^th IUPAC International Symposium Symposium on Organometallic Chemistry directed toward Organic Synthesis, Geneva, Switzerland, July 17-21. 2005, P-448.

Chiu P. and Leung L.T., Hydrostannation of activated alkynes mediated by Stryker's reagent, Pure and Applied Chemistry. 2006, 78: 281-285.

Chiu P., Total synthesis of pseudolaric acids A and B, Invited Lecture of The 0^th International Conference on Cutting-edge Organic Chemistry in Asia, Nagoya, Japan, March 9-10. 2006.

Chiu P., Geng Z. and Chen B., Total synthesis of pseudolaric acids A and B, Keynote Lecture of The 4^th Singapore International Chemistry Conference (SICC-4), Singapore, December 8-10. 2005, 81-OS-A0396.

Lau C.Y. and Chiu P., The use of non-cross-linked polystyrene-supported triphenylarsine reagent in Stille cross-coupling reactions and the reduction of scrambled products, Pacifichem 2005, Honolulu, HI, USA, December 15-20. 2005.

Leung L.T., Leung S.K. and Chiu P., Copper-catalyzed hydrostannation of activated alkynes , Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5249-5252.

Wong K.W., Chiu P., Chung S.S.M., Chow L.M., Zhao Y.Z., Yang B. and Ko C.B., Pseudolaric Acid B, a novel microtubule-destabilizing agent that circumvents multi-drug resistance phenotype and exhibits antitumor activity in vivo., Clinical Cancer Research. 2005, 11: 6002-11.

Zhang X., Ko Y.Y., Li S., Miao R. and Chiu P., Allenes as dipolarophiles in the intramolecular carbene cyclization-cycloaddition cascade reaction, Synlett. 2006, 1197-1200.

Researcher : Chu BWK

List of Research Outputs

Li M., Chu B.W.K. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, characterization, spectroscopic, and electrochemiluminescence properties of a solvatochromic azacrown-containing cyanoruthenate(II): Potential applications in separation and indirect photometric detection of cations and amino acids in HPLC, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 3528-3537.

Researcher : Chu IK

Project Title:	Formation of molecular radical cations of oligopeptides
Investigator(s):	Chu IK, Rodriquez C.F.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	08/2003
Completion Date:	07/2005

Abstract:

To determine factors that influence the radical cation formaton: (a) effect of amino acid composition, (b) effect of peptide sequence, (c) effect of metal center, (d) effect of ligand; to estimate the reduction potential of the metal complex and its gas phase acidity.

Project Title:	Formation of molecular radical cations of oligopeptides
Investigator(s):	Chu IK, Rodriquez C.F.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	08/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Mapping of N-Glycosylation Sites of Selected Glycoproteins by Means of Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Investigator(s):	Chu IK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

Protein glycosylation has been recognized as one of the most common protein post-translational modifications, especially N-linked glycosylation, which plays important roles in various virus-receptor interactions.[1] Determining the exact residues that are glycosylated is an essential part in understanding protein function. Identification and sequence information of the specific proteins expressed are highly desirable but difficult to acquire because of small sample sizes, low concentrations and the requirement of sensitive analytical techniques. The ability to identify and determine proteins in femtomole quantities is rapidly being realized with the advent in the late 1980s of electrospray (ESI) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI), ionization techniques for mass spectrometry that are sensitive and well-suited for proteins.[2] The advent of the aforementioned soft ionization techniques recognized by the 2002 Nobel Price in chemistry in which revolutionized the field of mass spectrometry by enabling the introduction of very large non-volatile biomolecules into the gas phase. These techniques are used routinely to introduce peptides and proteins into the gas phase, in the form of closed-shell protonated ions, [M + nH]n+ or species cationized on metals, followed by structure determination using tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). Protein MS, in combination with high-resolution separation techniques and database searching, is being applied to identify proteins via their tryptic maps and partial sequence data. However, the genetically determined sequence of the amino acids defines the structure and ultimately the function of the protein. Many important proteins are post-translationally modified, such as the spike glycoproteins from Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) coronavirus and Gp120 from Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), an essential step rendering them functionally active; post-translational modifications are not apparent from genomics sequence or mRNA expression data. The detection of protonated peptides via ESI or MALDI-MS has been recognized as key technology in the identification of proteins and it post-translation modifications. A complete glycosylation sites mapping of glycoproteins in complexes biological sample could be difficult to acquire owing to the observed peptide ions from ESI or MALDI-MS are sequence, MS ionization and charge dependent as a result of bottom necking in complete N-Glycosylation sites identification. We ascribe the favorable formation of protonated peptides may be due to the relatively high proton affinity and ionization efficiency of particular peptides. In this proposal, we aim to (1) study the effects of sequential specific and non-specific enzymatic digestion, ionization techniques and sample purification on the protein coverage; (2) develop methodologies to confirm and screen the potential N-glycosylation sites using tandem mass spectrometry; and (3) develop an appropriate method for the extraction, enrichment, and purification of glycopeptides.

Project Title:	Dissociation of Molecular Radical Cationic Oligopeptides
Investigator(s):	Chu IK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Dissociation of Molecular Radical Cationic Oligopeptides
Investigator(s):	Chu IK, Rodriquez C.F., Laskin J
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

The proposed studies will focus on obtaining a fundamental understanding of the dissociation pathways of peptide radical cations using a combination of tandem mass spectrometry experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In addition, we will study the energetics of dissociation of these species using RRKM-based modeling of the time- and collision energy-resolved SID data. Understanding the fragmentation mechanisms of peptides is a key step that is required prior to establishing strategies for gas-phase peptide sequencing.

List of Research Outputs

Chu I.K., Fellowship, Summer Research Institute, Fundamental Science Directorate, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Department of Energy, USA. Richland, USA, 2005.

Chu I.K. and Lam N.W., Generation of peptide radical dications via low-energy collision-induced dissociation of [Cu^II(terpy)(M+H)] ^·3+ , Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry. 2005, 16: 1795-1804.

Lam N.W., Orlova G., Laskin J. and Chu I.K., Facile generation and characterization cationic radical peptides: ligand effect and peptide structures, 54th American Society for Mass Spectrometry Conference, Seattle, USA. 2006.

Lam N.W., Orlova G., Laskin J. and Chu I.K., Facile generation and characterization of cationic radical peptides: Ligand effect and peptide structures, Poster Presentation in Proceedings of 54th ASMS Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topies, Seattle, Washington State, U.S.A., May 28 - June 1, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. 393.

Lam N.W. and Chu I.K., Generation of peptide radical dications via low-energy collision-induced dissociation of [Cu^II(terpy)(M+H)]^.3+, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. A16.

Lam N.W., Yu K.Y., Le Blanc J...C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SBSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic Arabidopsis by means of tandem mass spectrometry, 54th American Society for Mass Spectrometry Conference, Seattle, USA. 2006.

Lam N.W., Siu S.O., Orlova G. and Chu I.K., Macrocyclic effect of auxiliary ligand on the gas phase dissociation of ternary copper(II)–GGX complexes, Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry. 2006, 20: 790-796.

Laskin J. and Chu I.K., Fragmentation energetics of peptide radical cations from time- and energy-resolved surface-induced dissociation studies, 54th American Society for Mass Spectrometry Conference, Seattle, USA, June. 2006.

Ruan D., Lam N.W., Orlova G. and Chu I.K., Facile generation and characterization of cationic radical peptides: Ligand effect and peptide structures, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006. Poster No. A18.

Siu S.O., Cox D., Lee C.K.F., Yeung W.S.B. and Chu I.K., Characterization of N-linked Glycosylation sites and glycams of glycodelins by means of tandem mass spectrometry, 54th American Society for Mass Spectrometry Conference, Seattle, USA. 2006.

Siu S.O., Cox D., Lee C.K.F., Yeung W.S.B. and Chu I.K., Characterization of N-linked glycosylation sites and glycans of glycodelins by means of tandem mass spectrometry , Poster Presentation in Proceedings of 54th ASMS Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topies, Seattle, Washington State, U.S.A., May 28 - June 1, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. 394.

Siu S.O., Cox O., Lee C.K.F., Yeung W.S.B. and Chu I.K., Characterization of N-linked glycosylation sites and glycans of glycodelins by means of tandem mass spectrometry, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong . 2006, A19.

Yu K.Y., Lam N.W., Shiu H.Y.F., Yves Le Blanc J.C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SbSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic arabidopsis by means of tandem mass spectrometry , Poster Presentation in Proceedings of 54th ASMS Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topies, Seattle, Washington State, U.S.A., May 28 - June 1, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. 466.

Yu K.Y., Lam N.W., Shiu H.Y.F., Yves Le Blanc J.C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SbSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic arabidposis by means of tandem mass spectrometry, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. A23.

Researcher : Chu LM

List of Research Outputs

Du Y., Guan X., Kwok W.M., Chu L.M. and Phillips D.L., Comparison of the dehalogenation of dihalomethanes (CH₂XI, where X = Cl , Br, I) following ultraviolet photolysis in aqueous and NaCL saltwater environments, Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2005, 109: 5872-5882.

Researcher : Chui SY

List of Research Outputs

Chui S.Y., Chen R. and Che C.M., A Chiral [2] catenane precursor of the antiarthritic Gold_(I) drug auranofin**, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2006, 45: 1621-1624.

Kui C.F., Chui S.Y., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Structures, photoluminescence, and reversible vapoluminescence properties of neutral platinum(II) complexes containing extended pconjugated cyclometalated ligands , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 8297-8309.

Researcher : Chung NW

List of Research Outputs

Yang D., Wang H., Sun Z., Chung N.W. and Shen J., A highly selective fluorescent probe for the detection and imaging of peroxynitrite in living cells , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 6004-6005.

Researcher : Du Y

List of Research Outputs

Du Y., Guan X., Kwok W.M., Chu L.M. and Phillips D.L., Comparison of the dehalogenation of dihalomethanes (CH₂XI, where X = Cl , Br, I) following ultraviolet photolysis in aqueous and NaCL saltwater environments, Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2005, 109: 5872-5882.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Du Y., Kan T.W., Toy P.H. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time-resolved transient absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy study of the photodeprotection and rearrangement reactions of p-hydroxyphenacyl caged phosphates , Journal of the American Chemical Society . 2006, 128: 2558-2570.

Researcher : Fang GS

List of Research Outputs

Wong E.L.M., Fang G.S., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Highly cytotoxic iron(II) complexes with pentadentate pyridyl ligands as a new class of anti-tumor agents, Chemical Communications. 2005, 4578-4580.

Researcher : Fung CMK

List of Research Outputs

Fung C.M.K., Synthesis and applications of copper hydride complexes in reductive reactions (PhD Thesis). 2006.

Researcher : Fung KL

List of Research Outputs

Fung K.L., Yan H., Ching Y.P., Ng I.O.L., Chung S.S.M., Sun H. and Ko B.C.B., Homodimerization of the deleted in liver cancer 2 (DLC2) is not mediated by the SAM domain, FEBS-IUBMB Conference, July 2005.

Fung K.L., Molecular study of the deleted in lver cancer 2 (DLC2)-solution structure of the Sam Domain and interaction with MCM7 (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Li H., Fung K.L., Jin D., Chung S.S.M., Cing Y.P., Ng I.O.L., Sze K.H., Ko C.B. and Sun H., Solution structures and dynamics of the sterile of Motif (SAM) domain of the deleted in liver cancer 2 (DLC2): a monomeric structure with membrane-binding properties, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-17, p.33.

Researcher : Fung KL

List of Research Outputs

Fung K.L., Molecular study of the deleted in lver cancer 2 (DLC2)-solution structure of the Sam Domain and interaction with MCM7 (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Researcher : Fung YS

Project Title:	PCR-based DNA quartz piezoelectric biosensor for determination of E. Coli in environmental and food samples
Investigator(s):	Fung YS, Ng SP, Yam WC, Yao S.Z., Li Z.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2003

Abstract:

To investigate and select a suitable primer and probe for use in the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to amplify appropriate DNA sequence for E. coli determination using the piezoelectric crystal (PZ) biosensor; to develop and optimize the coating procedure for a single strand Deoxyribonucleic Acid (ssDNA) onto the quartz piezoelectric crystal surface; to investigate the mechanism for the procedures during immobilization and hybridization of ssDNA of E. coli using various techniques based on Scanning Probe Microscope (SPM); to correlate the PCR-based DNA PZ signal with the bacteria count using the real-time PCR and Capillary Electrophoresis (CE) for quantitative determination; to optimize the working conditions, determine the analytical parameters and study the field application of PCR-based DNA quartz PZ biosensor.

Project Title:	PCR-based DNA quartz piezoelectric biosensor for determination of E. Coli in environmental and food samples
Investigator(s):	Fung YS, Ng SP, Yam WC, Yao S.Z., Li Z.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	10/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Application of Microchip Electrophoresis and related methodologies for Respiratory Research
Investigator(s):	Fung YS, Lin BC, Qin JH, Lam WK, Tsang KWT, Ho JCM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2005
Completion Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

Recent work done at Respiratory Medicine, HKU, had shown the potential role of genetic polymorphisms of glutathione-S-transferases GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1 in susceptibility to lung cancer in Hong Kong Chinese and GSTT1 null genotype was found to associate with an increased risk for lung cancer in non-smoking Chinese in Hong Kong (Lung Cancer (2004) 45, 155-160). This leads to the need in assessing the role of combined genetic polymorphisms of related enzymes in elucidating the etological factors of lung cancer amongst non-smoker in Hong Kong, particular for female in Southern China, as little work has done in this area before. In addition to genetic research, investigation on changes in antioxidant enzyme activities and oxidized glutathione (glutathione, GSSG) in erythrocytes from patients with asthma has been conducted, showing that asthma is accompanied by an alteration in systemic antioxidant status due to possible oxidative stress (J. Allergy & Clinical Immunology, 2004, 114(2) 260-264). Through previous research collaboration between Chemistry Department and Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, we have developed methodologies based on microchip electrophoresis for genotyping of -6A/G functional polymorphism in the core promoter region of Angiotensingen Gene (Electrophoresis, in press), as well as an ultra-rapid method for simultaneous determination of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and Reduced Glutathione (GSH) in Apoptotic Leukemia cells (Electrophoresis, under review). The genotyping methodology developed based on microchip electrophoresis can be extended for determining other lung cancer related genes such as Interlukin 11G and Interin 1 and the ultrarapid assay for ROS and GSH by microchip electrophoresis (results obtained within 27s) can be adopted after development for analysis in plasma. They will provide suitable methodologies to enhance the work done in respiratory medicine in cancer and asthma research. The objectives of the present proposal are developing the microchip electrophoresis methodologies for the analysis of ROS and related species in plasma, as well as for the determination of genes related to lung cancer such as Interlukin 11G and Interin 1. The tools available will enable conducting a survey of selected population to understand the route from genetic makeup to expression of antioxidants through protein analysis. The information obtained is essential to map the path for carcinogenesis for lung cancer and to understand the effect of antioxidants on asthma patients, producing results needed to identify high risk group and to guide therapeutic treatment for intervention to block pathogenesis development for asthma and cancer patients.

Project Title:	Electrophoretic Nano-coating Technology using Environmental Friendly Water-based Nano-coating System for Corrosion Protection and Decoration of Metal Parts and Components used in Automobiles
Investigator(s):	Fung YS, Zhu D, Lin B.C., Li Z.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Applied Research
Start Date:	05/2005
Completion Date:	04/2006

Abstract:

The main objective is to develop the two nanotechnologies, namely Capillary Nano-particle Sizing Technology (CENST) and the Electrophoretic Nanocoating Technology (ENT), which are previously supported by the Innovation and Technology Fund (ITS/125/01), to new processes to produce specific products in the manufacturing of automobile parts and accessories, a rising industrial sector at the Pearl River Delta area. There are three main focus areas for developing the product oriented processes using the two nanotechnologies developed. The first focus area is to develop a transparent polymeric coating layer with main focus on corrosion protection of aluminium and magnesium based alloys. They can be used for functional coating or for coating parts with decorative appearance. Fundamental investigations have to be performed to study the pore structure of the protective oxide layer formed during industrial production of aluminium and magnesium alloys and to investigate the size distribution effect of nano-emulsion on coating formed at various pore structures as identified. The composition of the electrophoretic bath needs to be developed and the working conditions of ENT established under the best performance. In addition, the working conditions of CENST needed to be optimized for QA/QC of the ENT processes. The second area is developing coating using nanoemulsion and a mixture of dyes to achieve a combined function on corrosion protection and decorative finish. It will aim at achieving both functions using a single coating process. The third area will focus on the co-deposition of nano-composites with metal particles, dyes and nanoemusion to produce desirable patterns for highly decorative parts. All the processes developed use the environmental friendly water-based system. Blending nano-emulsion with other polymer particles will be investigated in the above three processes to produce an Interpenetration Network structure to achieve a desirable coating layer with suitable thickness and to reduce cost.

Project Title:	Clinical study and application of capillary electrophoesis-frontal analysis for measurement and management of unbound serum bilirubin in newborn babies at Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong
Investigator(s):	Fung YS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Nanoparticle Characterization Technology for Biomedical Research and Diagnostic Application
Investigator(s):	Fung YS, Li Z., Yeung WSB, O WS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

Introduction The proposed project aims to investigate the applicability of the nanoparticle characterization technology in the areas of biomedical research and diagnosis. The technology has been developed by Dr Fung with the support of the Innovation and Technology Fund (ITF) project (Fung, Li and Zhu, 2005) awarded by the Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) on the development of Nanotechnology for sizing and collection of polymeric nanoemulsions for industrial quality control and assessment application. During the ITF project started in March 2002 till August 2004, we have built and tested the following equipment and facilities for sizing, counting, collection and characterization of polymeric nano-particles: Electrospray Aerosol Generator, Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer, Condensation Particle Counter and the Nanometer Aerosol Sampler/Collector for collection of nanoparticles for Dynamic Laser Scattering studies and characterization by TEM, SEM, AFM, ICP-MS and other techniques available in the University. The system allows intact electrospray of industrial polymeric nanoemulsions for separation according to their m/e ratio, counting the number of nanoparticles within a given size range and collection of nanoparticles separated for subsequent morphological and chemical characterization by other advanced techniques. This is the first set of equipment and facilities built specially for characterization of industrial polymeric nanoemulsions for quality control purpose. Using the equipment and facilities built to provide a reliable laboratory-based methodology for accurate sizing and characterization of soft nanoparticles, we have successfully developed both the equipment and methodology of the Capillary Electrophoretic Nano-sizing Technology (CENST) and tested its applicability in factory at Pearl River Delta area for onsite quality assessment of industrial nano-emulsions. We have been invited by the ITC to submit a bid for the State Technological Invention Award (STIA) and the State Scientific and Technological Progress Award (SSTPA) under the 2006 State Science and Technology Awards Scheme. In addition, we have invited by the Hong Kong Productivity Council to further develop the electrophoretic nanotechnologies for automobile application and acted as one of the initiating projects for the R & D centre on automobile which have received approval from the ITC and Legislative Council and will be started early next year. Since the completion of the ITF project in August last year, we have explored the possibility of the nanotechnology developed for biomedical application, as many biomolecules such as proteins and subcelluar organelles (e.g. mitochrondria) are in nanometric sizes and our techniques developed can be applied for their separation and characterization. With a new graduate student coming in January 2005 to Dr Fung’s group, a procedure for determining free and protein-bound calcium in milk samples has been developed using the nanoparticle characterization technology developed with results presented at the 8th Asianalysis meeting held in Taipei in October this year (Fung and Sze, 2005). We are in the process of writing a paper on the work presented.. During the Joint Retreat of the Strategic Research Theme of Development and Reproduction & Centre for Reproduction, Development and Growth held at the end of June, I have met and discussed with Dr S.B. Yeung and other colleagues in the medical faculties, and found that there are strong interest in calcium speciation, counting and characterization of biomedical nanoparticles. The following project has been formulated with details given below : Backgrounds : Calcium homeostasis is important for fertilization and early embryonic development. The entry of the sperm into the oocyte causes repetitive release of calcium from intracellular calcium store leading to oscillation in the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration [Ca2+]i (Stricker, 1999; Dumollard et al., 2002). The frequency and the amplitude of this calcium oscillation provide cues leading to completion of meiosis and initiation of embryonic development (Ozil and Huneau, 2001). The calcium concentration in these studies was determined by calcium ratio imaging. Currently, there is no established method in determining bound calcium in oocyte, though calcium-binding proteins have been detected in oocyte (Balakier et al., 2002). Mitochondria are important organelles in regulating intracellular calcium homeostasis in oocytes. Sperm-triggered calcium oscillations stimulate mitochondrial ATP production (Hajnoczky et al., 1995; Dumollard et al., 2003, 2004), which in turn regulates intracellular Ca2+ release (Mak et al., 1999). Mitochondrial dysfunction in mouse oocytes impairs Ca2+ clearance from the cytosol (Liu et al., 2001). Evidence show that mitochondrial ATP generation in oocyte is crucial to the maintenance of a low resting [Ca2+]i and for sustenance of sperm-triggered calcium oscillations (Dumollard et al, 2004). Aging is associated with changes in mitochondria within the oocyte. Mitochondria in aged oocytes have features found in senescent somatic cells (Motta et al., 2000; de Bruin et al., 2004) and apoptotic somatic cells (Müller-Hocker et al., 1996; Lee and Wei, 2001), show sign of degradation (Sundstrom and colleagues 1985) and more frequent point mutations and rearrangements of mitochondrial DNA (Barritt et al., 1999). Aging is also related to decline in mitochondrial charge (Wilding et al., 2001), which has been associated with increased levels of mosaicism in embryos (Wilding et al., 2003). Aged mouse oocytes have defective regulation of intracellular ATP at fertilization (Igarashi et al., 2005). Whether these age-related changes in mitochondria would affect the calcium homeostasis in oocyte from advanced aged mammals is not entirely known. Hypothesis Calcium homeostasis is defective in aging oocytes. Objectives 1.To develop the electrophoretic methodology for determining free and bound calcium concentration in mouse oocytes 2.Based on the method developed, to compare the concentration of free and bound calcium in oocytes from mature and aged mice. 3. To develop the nanoparticle characterization methodology for counting, separation and characterization of mitochondria in aged as compared to matured oocytes. References: Pooled together with other sections and placed at the end of the Research Plan and Methodology section.

List of Research Outputs

Fung Y.S., Zhu D., Li Z. and You T., "Electrophoretic nano-coating" (Chinese Patent No. CN-2005-1654558A) , Chinese Patent Office . 2005.

Fung Y.S., Zhu D., Li Z. and You T., "Electrophoretic nano-coating" (US-2005-0173248A1) , Unitied States Patent Office . 2005.

Fung Y.S., Sun D. and Yeung C.Y., Capillary electrophoresis for binding study of bilirubin to human serum proteins, Abstract of 8^th Asian Conference on Analytical Sciences (Asianalysis VIII), Taipei, Taiwan, October 16-20, 2005. KA-06: 62.

Fung Y.S., Sun D. and Yeung C.Y., Capillary electrophoresis for binding study of bilirubin to human serum proteins, Invited Lecture at 8^th Asian Conference on Analytical Science (Asianalysis VIII), Taipei, Taiwan, October 16-20, 2005. 2005.

Fung Y.S., Zhang Y., Si S., Sun H. and Yao S.Z., DNA Piezoelectric Quartz Crystal Biosensors , In: (C.A. Grimes, E.C. Dickey and M.V. Pishko, eds), Encyclopedia of Sensors, First Edition. American Scientific Publishers, 2006, 2: 439-450.

Fung Y.S. and Dao K.L., Extraction and chromatographic determination of chlorophenols in soil, Abstract of 18^th Annual International Ion Chromatography Symposium (IICS 2005), Montreal, Canada, September 18-21, 2005. P-23-M: 55-56.

Fung Y.S., Guest Professor, Dongguan Institute of Technology, Guangdong, China, 1999 - June 2006. 2005.

Fung Y.S., Guest Professor, High Molecular Polymer Material and Engineering Research Institute, Material Science and Engineering Faculty, Jilin University, China, 2003- June 2006. 2005.

Fung Y.S., Guest Professor, High Molecular Polymer Material and Engineering Research Institute, Material Science and Engineering Faculty, Jilin University, China, 2003-2006. 2005.

Fung Y.S., Member of Editorial Board, Chemistry Education, published by the Chinese Chemical Society, April 2000 - June 2006. 2005.

Fung Y.S., Member of Editorial Board, Journal of Biochemical and Biophysical Methods, January 2005 - 2007. Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Elsevier, 2005.

Fung Y.S., Oxygen flask combustion, In: (Paul J. Worsfold, Alan Townshend and Colin F. Poole, eds.), Encyclopedia of Analytical Science, Second Edition. Oxford, Elsevier, 2005, 5: 137-146.

Fung Y.S., Si S., Zhang Y. and Zhu D., Piezoelectric immunosensors for detection of bacteria, In: (C.A. Grimes, E.C. Dickey and M.V. Pishko, eds), Encyclopedia of Sensors, First Edition . American Scientific Publishers, CA, USA, 2006, 7: 451-462.

Fung Y.S. and Lau K.M., Separation and determination of cations in beverage products by capillary zone electrophoresis , Journal of Chromatography A. 2006, 1118: 144-150.

Fung Y.S. and Lau K.M., Separation and determination of cations in beverage products by capillary zone electrophoresis, Abstract of 18^th Annual International Ion Chromatography Symposium (IICS 2005), Montreal, Canada, September 18-21, 2005. P-34-T: 60.

Gong F., Wang B.T., Fung Y.S. and Chau F.T., Chemometric characterization of the quality of the atmospheric environment in Hong Kong, Atmospheric Environment. 2005, 39: 6388-6397.

Li Y.H., Wang C.Y., Sun J.Y., Zhou Y.C., You T., Wang E.K. and Fung Y.S., Determination of dioxopromethazine hydrochloride by capillary electrophoresis with electrochemiluminescence detection, Analytica Chimica Acta. 2005, 550: 40-46.

Liang A., He X., Du Y., Wang K., Fung Y.S. and Lin B.C., Capillary zone electrophoresis characterization of low molecular weight heparin binding to interleukin 2, Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis. 2005, 38: 408-413.

Si S., Fung Y.S. and Zhu D., Improvement of piezoelectric crystal sensor for the detection of organic vapors using nanocrystalline TiO₂ films, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 165-171.

Sun H., Zhang Y., Si S., Zhu D. and Fung Y.S., Piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) with photochemically deposited nano-sized Ag particles for determining cyanide at trace levels in water, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 925-932.

Sun H. and Fung Y.S., Piezoelectric quartz crystal sensor using molecularly imprinted polymers as recognition coating for rapid analysis of pirimicarb residues, Abstract of 8^th Asian Conference on Analytical Science (Asianalysis VIII), Taipei, Taiwan, October 16-20, 2005. PG-12: 297.

Sun Z. and Fung Y.S., Flow injection analysis coupled with PQC/DNA Biosensor for assay of E.Coli based on detecting DNA products from PRC amplification , Abstract, 2nd International Meeting on Microsensors and Microsystems (IMm² 2006), Tainan, China, January 15-18, 2006. Poster No. 17.

Sze K.L. and Fung Y.S., Hyphenated gas-phase electrophoretic mobility molecular analyzer with inductively coupled plasma-spectrometric detection for the determination of free and particle-bounded calcium in liquid milk products, Abstract of 8^th Asian Conference on Analytical Sciences (Asianalysis VIII), Taipei, Taiwan, October 16-20, 2005. PF-11: 262.

Zhang Y., Fung Y.S., Sun H., Zhu D. and Yao S., Study of protein adsorption on polymer coatings surface by combining quartz crystal microbalance with electrochemical impedance methods, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 933-942.

Researcher : Gao H

List of Research Outputs

Yang P.H., Gao H., Cai J., Chiu J., Sun H. and He Q., The stepwise process of chromium-induced DNA breakage: characterization by electrochemistry, atomic force microscopy, and DNA electrophoresis, Chemical Research in Toxicology. 2005, 18: 1563-1566.

Researcher : Gao Q

List of Research Outputs

Yang D., Zheng B., Gao Q., Gu S. and Zhu N., Enantioselective PhSe-group-transfer tandem radical cyclization reactions catalytzed by a chiral lewis acid, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2005, 45: 255-258.

Researcher : Ge R

List of Research Outputs

Ge R., Watt R.M., Sun X., Tanner J.A., He Q., Huang J. and Sun H., Expression and characterization of a histidine-rich protein, Hpn: potential for Ni²⁺ storage in Helicobacter pylori, Biochemical Journal. 2006, 393: 285-293.

Sun X., Ge R., Sun H., Chiu J. and He Q., Biochemical characterization of the lipoprotein MtsA in Mts/ABC responsible for iron transport in Streptococcus pyogenes, The 230th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, Washington DC, August 28-September 1, 2005.

Researcher : Ge R

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Geng Z

List of Research Outputs

Chiu P., Geng Z. and Chen B., Total synthesis of pseudolaric acids A and B, Keynote Lecture of The 4^th Singapore International Chemistry Conference (SICC-4), Singapore, December 8-10. 2005, 81-OS-A0396.

Researcher : Gu S

List of Research Outputs

Yang D., Zheng B., Gao Q., Gu S. and Zhu N., Enantioselective PhSe-group-transfer tandem radical cyclization reactions catalytzed by a chiral lewis acid, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2005, 45: 255-258.

Researcher : Guan X

List of Research Outputs

Du Y., Guan X., Kwok W.M., Chu L.M. and Phillips D.L., Comparison of the dehalogenation of dihalomethanes (CH₂XI, where X = Cl , Br, I) following ultraviolet photolysis in aqueous and NaCL saltwater environments, Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2005, 109: 5872-5882.

Guan X., Phillips D.L. and Yang D., A density functional theory study of the 5-Exo cyclization reaction of a-substituted 6, 6-dipheny-5-hexenyl radicals , Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2006, 71: 1984-1988.

Guan X., Tse M.K., Yang Y., Sze K.H., Cheung K.K. and Wong K.B., Study of the structure and dynamics of a thermophilic acylphosphatase from Pyrococcus horikoshii by NMR spectroscopy, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005. PO-08, p.24.

Yang Y., Guan X., Tse M.K., Sze K.H. and Haynes R.K., Determination of solution structures of lolatins and tyrocidine-A by NMR spectroscopy , Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-30, p.46.

Researcher : Guan X

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Guan X

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Guo J

List of Research Outputs

Ko C.B., Tong H.Y., Guo J. and Chung S.S.M., Identification of novel nuclear export domains of transcription factor OREBP / TonEBP / NAFT5 , Annual Meeting of Experimental Biology 2006, San Francisco, CA, U.S.A., Apri. 1-5, 2006.

Researcher : Hao Y

List of Research Outputs

Hao Y., Synthesis and conformational studies of Beta 2,3-cyclic aminoxy peptides (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Researcher : He Q

Project Title:	Molecular dynamics of iron transport
Investigator(s):	He Q, Sun H
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2002
Completion Date:	11/2006

Abstract:

(1) How the chemical properties of the critical metal-binding ligands affect iron binding and release from transferrin in vitro. (2) How a depleted level of transferrin (and iron) in living cells affects the expression of related proteins in the iron-transport pathway. (3) Study the cellular trafficking of transferrin as a possible pathway for delivering drugs and nano-particles besides iron.

Project Title:	Proteomic profiling of cellular responses to chromium (Cr) cytotoxicity
Investigator(s):	He Q
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	04/2005
Completion Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

To study the proteomic responses of lung cells treated by chromium and correlate the proteomic results with the exist data from DNA studies.

Project Title:	Functional and structural characterization of lipoprotein MtsA in MtsABC responsible for transport of iron and other metal ions in Streptococcus pyogenes
Investigator(s):	He Q
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Proteomic approach to study metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Investigator(s):	He Q
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

Background: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the fourth most common malignancy and still represents a great health concern in China. Most of the patients cannot survive more than one year after presenting at healthcare centers and the 5-year survival rate for ESCC remains as low as 10 percent or even less. One of the main reasons for the ominous phenomena is that neoplasms in esophagus are not detected until they have invaded the surrounding tissues or spread throughout the body (metastasis) at advanced stages. The early detection and diagnosis of esophageal malignancy is critical for its therapy and management. Tumor metastasis is the spread of cancer cells from the original site to other parts of the body. It is a very complex and multi-step process and often referred to as a cascade. The process of metastasis formation begins with some tumor cells breaking adhesions with neighboring cells and detaching from the primary tumor. Those cells then dissolve the extracellular matrix, migrate and invade surrounding tissues, and/or travel via the circulatory system, invade, survive and proliferate at distant new sites. Metastasis is by far the leading cause of death in cancer patients including ESCC, responsible for more than 90% of all cancer mortality. Lymph node metastasis is a strong and dominant prognostic aspect for ESCC. Lymphatic invasion represents a physiological predictor of lymph node metastasis in patients with ESCC and is a factor significantly influencing overall survival rate. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the lymphatic invasion of cancer cells in ESCC is still unclear. Several proteins such as HIF-1α and VEGF family have been individually studied and their expression was reported to correlate with the depth of tumor invasion, tumor stage, venous invasion, lymphatic invasion, and lymph node metastasis. However, there is still lacking systematic data showing the molecular factors and their interactions in the process of lymphatic metastasis of ESCC. Proteomics is a systematic research approach aiming to provide the global characterization of protein expression and function under given conditions. Proteomics provides an effective methodology to globally examine the different protein expressions and protein interactions in disease. Proteomic technology has been widely used in biomarker discovery, target identification and pathogenetic studies including tumor metastasis. We have used 2D-gel based proteomics to compare the protein profiles between ESCC tumor and matched surrounding tissues and to identify differently expressed proteins in the esophageal cancer. A number of tumor-associated proteins including SCCA1, transgelin, TPM, prohibitin, PRX, aB-Cryst and MnSOD was detected with altered expressions, corresponding to a complicated multi-step process involved in the initiation, formation and progression of esophageal carcinoma (Proteomics, 2005, 5:2960-2971). However, ESCC metastasis has not been investigated by proteomic approach up today. Objectives: The main objective of this proposal is to study ESCC metastasis by proteomic technology. Using our established 2DE-based proteomics, we plan to profile and compare the proteomes and sub-fractions extracted from cultured esophageal cancer cells with one bearing proved metastatic potential. We will systematically characterize the differently expressed proteins in metastatic cells and identify the molecular factors correlated to the tumor invasion and metastasis.

List of Research Outputs

Cai Z., Chiu J. and He Q., Current Progresses in Sample Preparation for Two-Dimensional Electrophoresis in Proteomics, Current Proteomics. 2006, 2: 259-268.

Ge R., Watt R.M., Sun X., Tanner J.A., He Q., Huang J. and Sun H., Expression and characterization of a histidine-rich protein, Hpn: potential for Ni²⁺ storage in Helicobacter pylori, Biochemical Journal. 2006, 393: 285-293.

He Q., Proteomics And Its Application In The Research Of Liver Diseases, Asian Pacific Digestive Week 2005 (APDW 2005). Seoul, Korea, 2005.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, 13th Symposium oc Chemistry Postgraduate Research In Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 17, 2006.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, Journal of Proteome Research. 2006, 5: 916-924.

Sun X., Ge R., Sun H., Chiu J. and He Q., Biochemical characterization of the lipoprotein MtsA in Mts/ABC responsible for iron transport in Streptococcus pyogenes, The 230th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, Washington DC, August 28-September 1, 2005.

Wang Y., He Q., Sun R.W.Y., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Gold(III) porphyrin 1a induced apoptosis by mitochondrial death pathways related to reactive oxygen species , Cancer Research. 2005, 65: 11553-11564.

Wang Y., He Q., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Proteomic Characterization of the Cytotoxic Mechanism of Gold(III) Porphyrin 1a, an Potential Anticancer Drug, Proteomics. 2006, 6: 131-142.

Wang Y., Cheung Y.H., Yang Z., Chiu J., Che C.M. and He Q., Proteomic approach to study the cytotoxicity of dioscin (saponin), Proteomics. 2006, 6: 2422-2432.

Yang P.H., Gao H., Cai J., Chiu J., Sun H. and He Q., The stepwise process of chromium-induced DNA breakage: characterization by electrochemistry, atomic force microscopy, and DNA electrophoresis, Chemical Research in Toxicology. 2005, 18: 1563-1566.

Zhu R., Lau G., Chiu J. and He Q., Proteomics profiling of human serum for biomarker detection of the progression from hepatitis B virus to hepatocellular carcinoma, The 230^th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, Washington DC., Aug 28 - Sept 1. 2005.

Researcher : He S

List of Research Outputs

He S., Yan J., Shen R., Zhao S. and Toy P.H., Non-cross-linked Polystyrene-supported triphenylphosphine microencapsulated palladium: An efficient and recyclable catalyst for Suzuki-miyaura reactions, Synlett. 2006, 563-566.

He S., Zhang C., Ng K.W. and Toy P.H., Polystyrene-supported Triphenylarsines: Useful ligands in palladium-catalyzed aryl halide homocoupling reactions and a catalyst for alkene epoxidation using hydrogen peroxide , Tetrahedron. 2005, 61: 12053-12057.

Researcher : Ho CM

List of Research Outputs

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, 13th Symposium oc Chemistry Postgraduate Research In Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 17, 2006.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, Journal of Proteome Research. 2006, 5: 916-924.

Sun R.W.Y., Chen R., Chung P.Y., Ho C.M., Lin C.L. and Che C.M., Silver nanoparticles fabricated in hepes buffer exhibit cytoprotective activities toward HIV-1 infected cells , Chemical Communications. 2005, 5059-5061.

Researcher : Ho CY

List of Research Outputs

Ho C.Y., Asymmetric epoxidation of olefins and cyclization reactions catalyzed by Amines (PhD Thesis) . 2005.

Lee O.Y., Law K.L., Ho C.Y. and Yang D., Highly chemoselective reductive amination of carbonyl compounds promoted by InCl₃, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22 . 2006.

Researcher : Hou Y

List of Research Outputs

Lai S.W., Hou Y., Chan S.C., Zhang J., Che C.M., Kwok W.M. and Phillips D.L., Photo-reduction of methylviologen in alcohol solutions using luminescent platinum(II) photocatalysts, 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 15-20 December. 2005.

Researcher : Hu L

List of Research Outputs

Hu L., Chen G. and Chau R.M.W., A neural networks-based drug discovery approach and its application for designing aldose reductase inhibitors , Journal of Molecular Graphics and Modelling. 2006, 24: 244-253.

Researcher : Huang JS

Project Title:	Unusual metal-phosphorus bonded metalloporphyrins
Investigator(s):	Huang JS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2004
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

To develop novel chemistry of metalloporphyrins with metal-phosphorus (M-P) bonds, including (i) the syntheses and reactivities of metalloporphyrins bearing primary/secondary phosphine, halophosphine, polyphosphine, phosphido, and phosphinidene ligands and (ii) multi metalloporphyrin assemblies linked by bidentate P-ligands.

Project Title:	Iron, Ruthenium, and Osmium Phosphinidene and Sulfido Complexes: Phosphorus or Sulfur Atom Transfer Reactions and Models for Native Iron-Sulfur Clusters
Investigator(s):	Huang JS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To develop the chemistry of (1) metal-phosphorus multiple bonds in metallomacrocycles or metallosalens, (2) metal-sulfur multiple bonds in iron, ruthenium, or osmium complexes, (3) ruthenium or osmium analogues of biologically important iron-sulfur clusters. The ultimate goals are to realize metal catalyzed C P bond formation reactions such as phosphirane formation alkenes, to develop new metal cat alysts for the C-S bond formation reactions such as alkene episulfidation, and to synthesize new structural or functional models for the active sites of iron-sulfur proteins or nitrogenase.

Project Title:	Metalloporphyrin- and metallosalen-mediated imine functionalizations
Investigator(s):	Huang JS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

The main objectives of this project are: 1) To synthesize various imine or iminato complexes of metalloporphyrins or metallosalens. 2) To study the spectral and structural properties of the imine or iminato complexes of metalloporphyrins or metallosalens. 3) To explore the reactivity of the coordinated imine or iminato ligands toward a variety of reagents such as diazo compounds, imido sources, and aryl halides. 4) To develop metalloporphyrin- or metallosalen-catalyzed aziridination, diaziridination, and N-arylation of imines.

Project Title:	Iron, Ruthenium, and Osmium Phosphinidene and Sulfido Complexes: Phosphorus or Sulfur Atom Transfer Reactions and Models for Native Iron-Sulfur Clusters
Investigator(s):	Huang JS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Activation of P-H Bonds by Metalloporphyrins or Metallosalens
Investigator(s):	Huang JS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

(i) To explore the reactivity of primary/secondary phosphine complexes of metalloporphyrins and metallosalens. (ii) To explore the chemistry of oxidized metalloporphyrin/metallosalen complexes of primary/secondary phosphines and examine the P-H bond activation upon oxidation. (iii) To explore the reactivity of primary/secondary phosphines with oxo, imido, and carbene complexes of metalloporphyrins. (iv) To examine the possibility of using metalloporphyrins or metallosalens as efficient catalysts for C-P bond formation reactions such as hydrophosphination.

Project Title:	Functionalization of Iron-, Ruthenium-, and Osmium-Sulfur Clusters with Terminal Metal-Carbene, -Imido, or -Nitrido Bonds
Investigator(s):	Huang JS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Functionalization of Iron-, Ruthenium-, and Osmium-Sulfur Clusters with Terminal Metal-Carbene, -Imido, or -Nitrido Bonds
Investigator(s):	Huang JS
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

The main objectives of this project are: (1) To develop the chemistry of iron-, ruthenium-, and osmium-sulfur clusters bearing terminal metal-ligand multiple bonds. (2) To explore the possibility of using such types of metal-sulfur clusters as multicenter group transfer agents or catalysts for organic transformations such as cyclopropanation, aziridination, and alkene formation reactions, along with using metal-sulfur clusters bearing terminal carbene or imido groups as building blocks for larger metal-sulfur clusters or nanosized metal sulfides exhibiting unique structures and/or catalytic properties.

List of Research Outputs

Che C.M., Zhang J., Zhang R., Huang J.S., Lai T.S., Tsui H.W.M., Zhou X.G., Zhou Z.Y., Zhu N. and Chang C.K., Hydrocarbon oxidation by b-Halogenated dioxoruthenium (VI) porphyrin camplexes: effect of reduction potential (Ru^VI/V) and C-H bond-dissociation energy on rate constants, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 7040-7053.

Leung K.Y., Tsui W.M., Huang J.S., Che C.M., Liang J. and Zhu N., Imido Transfer from Bis(imido)ruthenium(VI) Porphyrins to Hydrocarbons: Effect of Imido Substituents, C-H Bond Dissociation Energies, and RuVI/V Reduction Potentials, Journal of the American Chemical Society. Columbus, USA, American Chemical Society, 2005, 127: 16629-16640.

Song L.C., Yu G., Hu Q.M., Che C.M., Zhu N. and Huang J.S., Synthesis and Characterization of the Frst Transition-Metal Fullerene Complexes Containing Bis(eta6-benzene)chromium Moieties, Journal of Organometallic Chemistry. Elsevier, 2006, 691: 787–792.

Zhang J., Huang J.S. and Che C.M., Oxidation chemistry of poly(ethylene glycol)-supported carbonylruthenium(II) and dioxoruthenium(VI) meso-tetrakis (pentafluorophenyl) porphyrin, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 3020-3031.

Researcher : Hui CS

List of Research Outputs

Chan W.K., Hui C.S., Man K.K.Y., Cheng K.W., Wong H.L., Zhu N. and Djurisic A., Synthesis and photosensitizing properties of conjugated polymers that contain chlorotricarbonyl bis(phenylimino)acenaphthene rhenium(I) complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 249: 1351-1359.

Researcher : Hui SK

List of Research Outputs

Hui S.K., Chow H.F. and Sze K.H., NMR study of organogel - bis (L-phenylalanie)-based pyridine-2, 6-dicarboxyamide, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006. O-35.

Wong C.H., Chow H.F., Hui S.K. and Sze K.H., Generation-independent dimerization behavior of quadruple hydrogen-bond-containing oligoether dendrons, Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 1811-1814.

Researcher : Hui SK

List of Research Outputs

Wong C.H., Chow H.F., Hui S.K. and Sze K.H., Generation-independent dimerization behavior of quadruple hydrogen-bond-containing oligoether dendrons, Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 1811-1814.

Researcher : Hui YN

List of Research Outputs

Hui Y.N., Development and application of chip-based and capillary-based capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy and sass spectrometry (PhD Thesis). 2005.

Hui Y.N., Wang G., Lin B.C. and Chan W.T., Interface of chip-based capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (CE-ICP-AES), Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry . 2006, 21: 134-140.

Hui Y.N., Wang G., Lin B. and Chan W.T., Microwave Plasma Treatment of Polymer Surface for Irreversible Sealing of Microfluidic Devices, In: Harp Minhas, Lab on a Chip. The Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 5: 1173-1177.

Researcher : Huo L

List of Research Outputs

Huo L., Tang J.W., Huang J.J., Huang P.T., Huang C.F., Kung H.F. and Lin M.C., Cancer immunotherapy targeting the telomerase reverse transcriptase, Cellular & molecular immunology. 2006, 3(1): 1-11.

Researcher : Kan TW

List of Research Outputs

Kan T.W. and Toy P.H., Sulfur-and selenium-based linkers in polymer-supported organic synthesis, Journal of Sulfur Chemistry . 2005, 26: 509-540.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Du Y., Kan T.W., Toy P.H. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time-resolved transient absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy study of the photodeprotection and rearrangement reactions of p-hydroxyphenacyl caged phosphates , Journal of the American Chemical Society . 2006, 128: 2558-2570.

Researcher : Ko CB

Project Title:	Transgenic mice approach to elucidating the role of osmotic response element binding protein (OREBP) in water homeostasis
Investigator(s):	Ko CB, Chung SSM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002
Completion Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

The project aims at understanding the physiological role of osmotic response element binding protein (OREBP) in kidney by developing transgenic mice that overexpress a dominant negative mutant of this protein in the inner medullary collecting ducts. It is anticipated that this study would reveal the role of OREBP in urine concentrating mechanism.

Project Title:	Mechanism of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of OREBP/TonEBP
Investigator(s):	Ko CB, Chung SSM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003
Completion Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

To elucidate the role of Crm-1 in hypotonicity-induced nuclear export of OREBP; to define the minimal domain in OREBP required for the nuclear import and export functions; to examine the role of histone deacetylases in regulation of hypotonicity-induced OREBP nuclear export.

Project Title:	Mechanism of nucleocytoplasmic shuttling of OREBP/TonEBP
Investigator(s):	Ko CB, Chung SSM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003
Completion Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	The role of osmotic response element binding protein in the hypertonic induction of p53
Investigator(s):	Ko CB
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2004
Completion Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

To elucidate the role of OREBP in the phypertonic-induction of p53, and to explore the role of p53 in mediating the expression of OREBP-dependent genes.

Project Title:	The mechanism of OREBP/TonEBP/NFAT5-dependent transcription - role of signaling pathway and chromatin remodeling
Investigator(s):	Ko CB
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	The mechanism of OREBP/TonEBP/NFAT5-dependent transcription - role of signaling pathway and chromatin remodeling
Investigator(s):	Ko CB, Chung SSM, Rao A.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To examine the correlation between OREBP-recruitment to different promoters and the kinetics of OREBP-dependent gene expressions; to evaluate the role of histone modification in OREBP-dependent gene transcription and the role of IKK and p38 in histone phosphorylation at OREBP-dependent promoters; to investigate the role of p300/CBP in histone modification and OREBP transcription activation.

Project Title:	To investigate the role of OREBP/TonEBP/NFAT5 in adipocyte growth and function
Investigator(s):	Ko CB
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	The Role of OREBP in Cell Growth
Investigator(s):	Ko CB
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2006
Completion Date:	10/2006

Abstract:

Cell growth, together with cell division and cell death is one of the most fundamental aspects of cell behavior. Proliferating cells often double in mass by increased marcomolecular biosynthesis before division to ensure cell size is maintained. Although the term cell growth (increase in mass and size) and cell division (progression through the cell cycle and the increase in number) are often being used synonymously, they are indeed separable process (1). In mammalian cells, blocking cell cycle progression did not prevent cells from increase in size (2). On the other hand, it is conceivable that cells must attain a threshold of size before committed to cell division to achieve cell-size homeostasis. Cell growth and division are therefore tightly coordinated in most dividing cells during animal development. Yet how cell growth is linked to cell cycle progression is still poorly understood. Prevailing hypothesis suggested that cell growth (mass or size) is rate-limiting for cell cycle progression. This is supported by the fact that blocking cell growth by nutrient or growth factor deprivation results in cell cycle arrest at G1 phase (3). Molecularly, it has been suggested that cell cycle progression is triggered by the increase in translation rate, particularly that of cell cycle regulators (4,5). Furthermore, p53, Retinoblastoma, and p16ARF are implicated as signaling molecules to coordinate cell growth and division by virtue of their roles in regulating both synthesis of ribosome and cell cycle progression (6). The Osmotic Response Element Binding Protein (OREBP), also known as NFAT5 or TonEBP, was originally identified as a transcription factor that orchestrates the hypertonicity-induced expression of a battery of genes crucial for the adaptation of mammalian cells to extracellular hypertonic stress (7). The known OREBP-regulated gene, such as aldose reductase, myo-inotistol transporter, betaine transporter, etc, are responsible for the intracellular accumulation of organic osmolytes (such as polyols and amino acid derivatives) that are important for cells to withstand extracellular hypertonic stress. In the course of elucidating the role of OREBP in lens development, we revealed that inhibition of OREBP activity leads to incomplete elongation of lens fiber cells (8). Since the lens fiber cells are terminally differentiated, yet are directed to elongate significantly to complete the growth process, our data implicated a role of OREBP in cell growth of lens fiber cells. Recent data from us demonstrated that OREBP silencing in HeLa cells also decreases cell size (data not shown). Taken together, these data suggested that OREBP may also play a role in cell growth. How OREBP activity is required for cell growth is unknown at present. We suggested the following possibilities: 1) OREBP silencing may lead to overall reduced level of intracellular osmolytes, resulting in cell shrinkage and growth deficit. 2) OREBP silencing may reduce the expression level of sodium-coupled neutral amino acid transporter subtype SNAT2, which may play a dominant role in the cell growth. SNAT2 is a member of the SLC38 gene family. Together with other transporter subtypes including SNAT1 and SNAT4, it accounts for the classical System A transport activity and is responsible for the cellular transport of small, zwitterionic amino acids. Hypertonic induction of SNAT2 is OREBP-dependent (9), and is thought to be important for the maintenance of cell volume, as SNAT2 gene silencing hinders cell recovery from hypertonic stress (10). Furthermore, SNAT2 is also subjected to tight regulatory control by amino acid deprivation and cell cycle progression. In myotubes, adipocyctes, fibroblasts and HepG2 cells, amino acid deprivation leads to rapid redistribution to the SNAT2 protein from an intracellular compartment to the plasma membrane, as well as an increase in gene transcription (11-14). Besides serving as organic osmolytes, the level of intracellular amino acids also acts as the activator for the mTOR (mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway (15). The mTOR pathway has emerged as one of the key regulators of cell growth in mammals (16). It couples the input of growth factor, nutrients (amino acids and glucose), and energy status to S6 Kinase 1 (S6K1) activation, translational initiation and cell growth. Although the mTOR pathway is most sensitive to change in leucine levels, a decrement in level of various other amino acids also inhibits the pathway (17), suggesting that the level of total amino acid pool is important for the pathway and cell growth. Inhibition of the pathway by rapamycin (a specific inhibitor of mTOR) resulting in reduced protein synthesis, leading to reduced cell size (18). 3) OREBP silencing may lead to DNA damage, resulting in stalled cell growth. Expression of dominant-negative OREBP leads to DNA damage, p53 overexpression and Chk2 activation in growing lens fiber cells with the cause that is not yet evident (8). However, it is still unknown if OREBP silencing leads to similar defects in HeLa cells. In proliferating cells, DNA damage activates Chk1 or Chk2, which plays an important role in organizing DNA damage response including stabilization of p53 and phosphorylation of Cdc25A and Cdc25C proteins, resulting in cell cycle arrest at G1/S or G2/M or apoptosis (19,20). In this proposal, we propose to discern the molecuclar mechanism leading to the observed defect in OREBP knockdown cells. There are two major objectives for the study: 1. To fully characterize the cell size phenotype in OREBP knockdown cells. 2. To examine the mechanism(s) responsible for the cell growth deficit in OREBP knockdown cells. The findings from this study will provide us more information regarding the function of OREBP in relation to cell growth, and will enable us to perfect our grant proposal in the coming CERG application. Reference 1.Jorgensen, P., and Tyers, M. (2004) Curr Biol 14, R1014-1027 2.Conlon, I. J., Dunn, G. A., Mudge, A. W., and Raff, M. C. (2001) Nat Cell Biol 3, 918-921 3.Pardee, A. B. (1974) Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 71, 1286-1290 4.Daga, R. R., and Jimenez, J. (1999) J Cell Sci 112 Pt 18, 3137-3146 5.Polymenis, M., and Schmidt, E. V. (1997) Genes Dev 11, 2522-2531 6.Ruggero, D., and Pandolfi, P. P. (2003) Nat Rev Cancer 3, 179-192 7.Handler, J. S., and Kwon, H. M. (2001) Kidney Int 60, 408-411 8.Wang, Y., Ko, B. C., Yang, J. Y., Lam, T. T., Jiang, Z., Zhang, J., Chung, S. K., and Chung, S. S. (2005) J Biol Chem 280, 19986-19991 9.Trama, J., Go, W. Y., and Ho, S. N. (2002) J.Immunol. 169, 5477-5488 10.Bevilacqua, E., Bussolati, O., Dall'Asta, V., Gaccioli, F., Sala, R., Gazzola, G. C., and Franchi-Gazzola, R. (2005) FEBS Lett 579, 3376-3380 11.Bain, P. J., LeBlanc-Chaffin, R., Chen, H., Palii, S. S., Leach, K. M., and Kilberg, M. S. (2002) J Nutr 132, 3023-3029 12.Gazzola, R. F., Sala, R., Bussolati, O., Visigalli, R., Dall'Asta, V., Ganapathy, V., and Gazzola, G. C. (2001) FEBS Lett 490, 11-14 13.Hyde, R., Christie, G. R., Litherland, G. J., Hajduch, E., Taylor, P. M., and Hundal, H. S. (2001) Biochem J 355, 563-568 14.Ling, R., Bridges, C. C., Sugawara, M., Fujita, T., Leibach, F. H., Prasad, P. D., and Ganapathy, V. (2001) Biochim Biophys Acta 151, 15-21 15.Kim, D. H., Sarbassov, D. D., Ali, S. M., King, J. E., Latek, R. R., Erdjument-Bromage, H., Tempst, P., and Sabatini, D. M. (2002) Cell 110, 163-175 16.Sarbassov, D. D., Ali, S. M., and Sabatini, D. M. (2005) Curr Opin Cell Biol 17, 1-8 17.Hara, K., Yonezawa, K., Weng, Q. P., Kozlowski, M. T., Belham, C., and Avruch, J. (1998) J Biol Chem 273, 14484-14494 18.Fingar, D. C., Salama, S., Tsou, C., Harlow, E., and Blenis, J. (2002) Genes Dev 16, 1472-1487 19.Ahn, J., Urist, M., and Prives, C. (2004) DNA Repair (Amst) 3, 1039-1047 20.Agarwal, M. L., Taylor, W. R., Chernov, M. V., Chernova, O. B., and Stark, G. R. (1998) J Biol Chem 273, 1-4

List of Research Outputs

Ko C.B., Tong H.Y. and Chung S.S.M., Identification of a novel nuclear export sequence of OREBP / TonEBP / NFAT5 that control cytoplasmic localization , 45th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Cell Biology, The Moscone Centre, San Fancisco, U.S.A., Dec 10-14, 2005.

Ko C.B., Tong H.Y., Guo J. and Chung S.S.M., Identification of novel nuclear export domains of transcription factor OREBP / TonEBP / NAFT5 , Annual Meeting of Experimental Biology 2006, San Francisco, CA, U.S.A., Apri. 1-5, 2006.

Li H., Fung K.L., Jin D., Chung S.S.M., Cing Y.P., Ng I.O.L., Sze K.H., Ko C.B. and Sun H., Solution structures and dynamics of the sterile of Motif (SAM) domain of the deleted in liver cancer 2 (DLC2): a monomeric structure with membrane-binding properties, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-17, p.33.

Liu Y., Wong K.W., Ko C.B., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Synthesis and cytotoxicity studies of arternisinin derivatives containing lipophilic alkyl carbon chains , The 230^thAmerican Society National Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 28 August 2005 - 1 September 2005.

Wong K.W., Chiu P., Chung S.S.M., Chow L.M., Zhao Y.Z., Yang B. and Ko C.B., Pseudolaric Acid B, a novel microtubule-destabilizing agent that circumvents multi-drug resistance phenotype and exhibits antitumor activity in vivo., Clinical Cancer Research. 2005, 11: 6002-11.

Researcher : Ko CC

Project Title:	Synthesis and studies of a new class of photochromic phenanthroline ligands and their zinc complexes
Investigator(s):	Ko CC, Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004
Completion Date:	04/2006

Abstract:

To design and synthesize a new class of photochromic phenanthroline molecules with interesting optical memory and recording properties, which may possess the capability to function as potential coordinating ligands for the formation of zinc complexes.

List of Research Outputs

Ko C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Photochromic and Luminescence Properties of a Versatile 1,10-Phenanthroline Ligand and Its Rhenium Complexes, Pacifichem 2005, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, December 15-20, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. Chi Chiu Ko). 2005.

Researcher : Ko YY

List of Research Outputs

Zhang X., Ko Y.Y., Li S., Miao R. and Chiu P., Allenes as dipolarophiles in the intramolecular carbene cyclization-cycloaddition cascade reaction, Synlett. 2006, 1197-1200.

Researcher : Kui CF

List of Research Outputs

Chan M.C.W., Kui C.F., Cole J.M., Mclntyre G.J., Matsui S., Zhu N. and Tam K.H., Neutron and X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic investigations of intramolecular [C-H^...F-C] contacts in post-metallocene polyolefin catalysts: modeling weak attractive polymer-ligand interactions, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 2607-2619.

Kui C.F., Non-covalent weak interactions in group IV, Pt(II) and Au(I) organometallic complexes: synthesis, structures and properties (PhD Thesis). 2005.

Kui C.F., Chui S.Y., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Structures, photoluminescence, and reversible vapoluminescence properties of neutral platinum(II) complexes containing extended pconjugated cyclometalated ligands , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 8297-8309.

Li K.L.C., Sun R.W.Y., Kui C.F., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Anticancer cyclometalated [Au^III_m(C^N^C)_mL]ⁿ⁺compounds: Synthesis and cytotoxic properties , Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 5253-5266.

Researcher : Kui CF

List of Research Outputs

Kui C.F., Non-covalent weak interactions in group IV, Pt(II) and Au(I) organometallic complexes: synthesis, structures and properties (PhD Thesis). 2005.

Researcher : Kung H

List of Research Outputs

Lum C.T., Yang Z., Li H.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Fan S.T., Poon R.T.P., Lin M.C., Che C.M. and Kung H., Gold(III) compound is a novel chemocytotoxic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma, International Journal of Cancer. 2006, 118(6): 1527-1538.

Researcher : Kwok CC

List of Research Outputs

Kwok C.C., Functional light-emitting materials of Platinum, Zinc and Boron for organic optoelectronic devices (PhD Thesis) . 2005.

Sham I.H.T., Kwok C.C., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Borazine materials for organic optoelectronic applications, Chemical Communications. Cambridge, U.K., Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 3547-3549.

Researcher : Kwok CC

List of Research Outputs

Kwok C.C., Functional light-emitting materials of Platinum, Zinc and Boron for organic optoelectronic devices (PhD Thesis) . 2005.

Sham I.H.T., Kwok C.C., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Borazine materials for organic optoelectronic applications, Chemical Communications. Cambridge, U.K., Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 3547-3549.

Researcher : Kwok WM

Project Title:	Ultrafast time-resolved transient absorption and resonance raman spectroscopic investigations of the photochemistry of selected chlorinated and brominated compounds
Investigator(s):	Kwok WM, Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004
Completion Date:	10/2005

Abstract:

To use ultrafast time-resolved spectroscopy techniques to investigate the photochemistry of selected halogenated compounds in water solvated environments.

Project Title:	Ultrafast time-resolved investigation on the structure and dynamics of photo-excited DNA bases, base derivatives and oligonucleotides.
Investigator(s):	Kwok WM, Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006
Completion Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation absorbed by DNA initiates photochemical events leading to base damage and genetic modification. Exposure of DNA to UV light excites nucleobases (the building block of DNA as well as the predominant DNA chromophores for UV irradiation). The subsequent photochemical reactions of the excited nucleobases in DNA are responsible for some of the most serious DNA photo-induced damage. While the major products of these photoreactions have now been characterized, little is known about the excited state responsible for their formation. Understanding the dynamics and properties of the photo-excited nucleobases and oligonucleotides is prerequisite for evaluating the factors involved in the following formation of photolesions. The major goal of this proposal is to utilize combined ultrafast time-resolved techniques to provide direct experimental evidence for characterization of the excited state properties including both the structural and electronic nature and lifetime information for the UV-excited nucleobases and selected oligonucleotides in solution phase. It is well known that the DNA bases are remarkably photostable due to their ultrashort excited state lifetimes. While extensive works have been done aiming to explore the excited states of the photo-excited nucleobases and valuable information has been obtained, there have been much uncertainties about the precise property of the excited state, especially structural information on the nucleobase excited states has been in lack in literature; it is also unclear about the mechanism responsible for the ultrafast deactivation of the nucleobase singlet-excited states. To help resolve this issue, we propose to use our newly developed femtosecond Kerr-gated time-resolved fluorescence (KTRF), transient absorption (TA) and picosecond time-resolved resonance Raman (ps-TR3) apparatus to perform a systematic study on natural nucleobases and selected base derivatives in solvents of different properties. (i) For the proposed KTRF and TA experiments, the novel broadband feature of our KTRF and TA spectroscopic techniques combined with the high sensitivity and broad time and spectral windows enable the first broadband and time-resolved fluorescence and absorption spectral characterization for the ultrashort-lived excited state of nucleobases. Since the spectral character and dynamics of the nucleobase excited states can be modulated by changing of solvent property as well as by specific covalent modification of the nucleobases, examine of the spectral dependence on the solvents and covalent modifications by the KTRF and TA spectroscopy can generate important insights and enable a clear and detailed description of the nonradiative pathway. (ii) We propose to use the ps-TR3 spectroscopy to directly probe the excited state structure of selected base derivatives and nucleobases and acquire the missing structural information. This result, in conjunction with the electronic property provided by the preceding KTRF and TA measurement, should enable a comprehensive description of the nucleobase excited state and help to resolve a continuing debate on the nature of the deactivation pathway. With knowledge of the excited state nature for the DNA base units, we propose to perform preliminary combined KTRF and TA experiments to monitor directly the spectral evolution of photo-excited oligonucleotide model compounds. Previous studies find that the singlet excited states of many base multimers have much longer lifetime (in nanosecond time scale) than that of the single bases (in sub-picosecond time scale). There has been expectation that these long-lived singlet excited states could possibly act as the direct precursors to some of the most important DNA photolesions. However, the important issues of the origin and nature of the long-lived excited states remain poorly understood. By performing the proposed ultrafast experiments and making comparisons with the results obtained for the relevant nucleobases, we intend to provide the first broadband fluorescence and absorption data for the excited states of the selected oligonucleotide model compounds. These results enable us to explore and elucidate the electronic energy relaxation dynamics and excited state assignments in the oligonucleotides. If time permits, we also plan to use TR3 spectroscopy to directly probe the structure of the excited states for the selected oligonucleotides. This provides the essential structural information to allow an explicit identification and more fully characterization of the long-lived excited state(s) in the nucleobases. The work supported by this project will result in publication(s) in the open refereed scientific literature and at least one in a top SCI peer-reviewed journal. The planed work will also lead to strengthen a RGC proposal that we will submit in this highly interested area related to the DNA damage caused by UV irradiation.

List of Research Outputs

Clarke T.M., Gordon K.C., Kwok W.M., Phillips D.L. and Officer D.L., Turning from pp^*to charge-transfer excited states in styryl-substituted terthiophenes: An ultrafast and steady-state emission study, Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2006, 110: 7696-7702.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Leung Y.H., Xie M.H., Chen H.Y., Wu C.L. and Gwo S., Optical properties of highly faceted ZnO rods, Journal of Applied Physics. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2006, 99: 033517: 1-6.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Phillips D.L. and Chan W.K., Stimulated emission in ZnO nanostructures: A time-resolved study, Journal of Physical Chemistry B. American Chemical Society, 2005, 109: 19228-19233.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Lin M.S. and Gwo S., Ultrafast spectroscopy of stimulated emission in single ZnO tetrapod nanowires, Nanotechnology. Bristol, IOP Publishing Limited, 2006, 17: 244-249.

Du Y., Guan X., Kwok W.M., Chu L.M. and Phillips D.L., Comparison of the dehalogenation of dihalomethanes (CH₂XI, where X = Cl , Br, I) following ultraviolet photolysis in aqueous and NaCL saltwater environments, Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2005, 109: 5872-5882.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Chen H.Y., Wu C.L., Gwo S. and Xie M.H., Study of excitonic emission in highly faceted ZnO rods, Chemical Physics Letters. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 412: 141-144.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved photoluminescence from ZnO nanostructures, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2005, 87: 223111: 1-3.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved photoluminescence study of the stimulated emission in ZnO nanoneedles, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2005, 87: 093108:1-3.

Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Phillips D.L., Chan W.K. and Djurisic A., Ultrafast time - and wavelength - resolved photoluminescence study of stimulated emission on selected ZnO nanostructures , International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFICHEM 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., Dec 15-20,. 2005.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Lin M.S., Gwo S. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time - and wavelength - resolved photoluminescence study of stimulated emission on selected ZnO nanostructures , The 4th Asian Conference on Ultrafast Phenomena, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, January 8-11, 2006.

Lai S.W., Hou Y., Chan S.C., Zhang J., Che C.M., Kwok W.M. and Phillips D.L., Photo-reduction of methylviologen in alcohol solutions using luminescent platinum(II) photocatalysts, 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 15-20 December. 2005.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Du Y., Kan T.W., Toy P.H. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time-resolved transient absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy study of the photodeprotection and rearrangement reactions of p-hydroxyphenacyl caged phosphates , Journal of the American Chemical Society . 2006, 128: 2558-2570.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Zuo P. and Phillips D.L., Using ultrafast time - resolved spectroscopy to investigate photo - deprotection related processes of the p-hydroxphenacyl caged phototrigger compounds, International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A.,December 15-20, 2005.

Phillips D.L., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Zuo P. and Chan W.S., Time - resolved resonance Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy studies of p-hydroxphenacyl caged photorigger compounds , International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., December 15-20, 2005.

Zuo P., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved resonance Raman and density functional theory study of deprotonation reaction of the triplet state of p-hydroxyacetophenone in water solution, Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2005, 70: 8661-8675.

Researcher : Kwong KW

List of Research Outputs

Teng W.D., Huang R., Kwong K.W., Shi M. and Toy P.H., Influence of michael acceptor stereochemistry on intramolecular morita-baylis-hillman reactions, Journal of Organic Chemistry . 2006, 71: 368-371.

Zhao L.J., Kwong K.W., Shi M., Toy P.H. and Toy P.H., Optimization of polystyrene-supported triphenylphosphine catalysts for Aza-morita-baylis-hillman, Tetrahedron. 2005, 61: 12026-12032.

Researcher : Lai SW

Project Title:	Photoluminescent platinum(II) materials for sensory applications
Investigator(s):	Lai SW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

To develop cyclometalated platinum(II) complexes for luminescent sensory devices and molecular recognition of biomolecules. The significance of this research proposal is to foster the collaborative and interdisciplinary research in the area of photoluminescent dyes for biosensor technology.

Project Title:	Solvatochromic Studies and Biomedical Applications of Dicyano Osmium(II) Complexes
Investigator(s):	Lai SW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

This proposal aims to synthesize a series of cis-dicyano osmium(II) diimine complexes bearing triphenylphosphine and dimethyl sulfoxide ligands, undertake the photophysical studies and investigate their solvatochromic properties. The purpose of the proposed project is to explore the potential applications of this class of complexes as luminescent biomolecule-tagging materials. The key issues of this project are to design and synthesize luminescent osmium(II) complexes, the photophysical properties of which are effectively affected by subtle changes in the surrounding micro-environment. The solvatochromism of luminescent complexes can be thoroughly studied to enable the judicious design of luminescent osmium(II) complexes, with the aim of inducing the profound impacts upon the photoluminescent properties with changing solvent environment. The purpose of the proposed project is to integrate biomolecular binding chemistry with phosphorescence. The susceptibility of the absorption and emission energies of these luminescent dicyano osmium(II) systems to subtle changes in their micro-environments will be utilized as sensory operating principles. The metal-sensing capabilities will be explored via spectrophotometric responses. The sensitivity and selectivity towards different metal analytes will be investigated and the binding stability will also be determined. Upon derivatizing the diimine ligands with moieties bearing biomolecule-binding abilities, we intend to further utilize the sensitivity of spectrophotometric responses towards guest molecules in the applications as biomolecule-tagging materials.

List of Research Outputs

Che C.M. and Lai S.W., Structural and Spectroscopic Evidence For Weak Metal-Metal Interactions and Metal-Substrate Exciplex Formations in d¹⁰ Metal Complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. Switzerland, Elsevier Science, 2005, 249: 1296-1309.

Lai S.W., Hou Y., Chan S.C., Zhang J., Che C.M., Kwok W.M. and Phillips D.L., Photo-reduction of methylviologen in alcohol solutions using luminescent platinum(II) photocatalysts, 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 15-20 December. 2005.

Researcher : Lam CF

List of Research Outputs

Lam C.F., Yam V.W.W., Wong M.C., Cheng C.C. and Zhu N., Synthesis and characterization of luminescent rhenium(I) -- platinum(II) polypyridine bichromophoric alkynyl-bridged molecular rods, Organometallics. 2005, 24: 4298-4305.

Lam C.F., Synthesis, optical and luminescence studies of rhenium(I) diimine alkynyl complexes and their utilization as building blocks for the assembly of multinuclear and mixed-metal complexes (PhD Thesis). 2005.

Researcher : Lam NW

List of Research Outputs

Chu I.K. and Lam N.W., Generation of peptide radical dications via low-energy collision-induced dissociation of [Cu^II(terpy)(M+H)] ^·3+ , Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry. 2005, 16: 1795-1804.

Lam N.W., Orlova G., Laskin J. and Chu I.K., Facile generation and characterization cationic radical peptides: ligand effect and peptide structures, 54th American Society for Mass Spectrometry Conference, Seattle, USA. 2006.

Lam N.W., Orlova G., Laskin J. and Chu I.K., Facile generation and characterization of cationic radical peptides: Ligand effect and peptide structures, Poster Presentation in Proceedings of 54th ASMS Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topies, Seattle, Washington State, U.S.A., May 28 - June 1, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. 393.

Lam N.W. and Chu I.K., Generation of peptide radical dications via low-energy collision-induced dissociation of [Cu^II(terpy)(M+H)]^.3+, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. A16.

Lam N.W., Yu K.Y., Le Blanc J...C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SBSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic Arabidopsis by means of tandem mass spectrometry, 54th American Society for Mass Spectrometry Conference, Seattle, USA. 2006.

Lam N.W., Siu S.O., Orlova G. and Chu I.K., Macrocyclic effect of auxiliary ligand on the gas phase dissociation of ternary copper(II)–GGX complexes, Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry. 2006, 20: 790-796.

Ruan D., Lam N.W., Orlova G. and Chu I.K., Facile generation and characterization of cationic radical peptides: Ligand effect and peptide structures, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006. Poster No. A18.

Yu K.Y., Lam N.W., Shiu H.Y.F., Yves Le Blanc J.C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SbSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic arabidopsis by means of tandem mass spectrometry , Poster Presentation in Proceedings of 54th ASMS Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topies, Seattle, Washington State, U.S.A., May 28 - June 1, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. 466.

Yu K.Y., Lam N.W., Shiu H.Y.F., Yves Le Blanc J.C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SbSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic arabidposis by means of tandem mass spectrometry, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. A23.

Researcher : Lam NW

List of Research Outputs

Yu K.Y., Lam N.W., Shiu H.Y.F., Yves Le Blanc J.C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SbSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic arabidposis by means of tandem mass spectrometry, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. A23.

Researcher : Lam SK

List of Research Outputs

Lam S.K., An Asymmetric Carbene Cyclization Cycloaddition Strategy Toward the Systhesis of Indicol (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Researcher : Lau CY

List of Research Outputs

Lau C.Y. and Chiu P., The use of non-cross-linked polystyrene-supported triphenylarsine reagent in Stille cross-coupling reactions and the reduction of scrambled products, Pacifichem 2005, Honolulu, HI, USA, December 15-20. 2005.

Researcher : Lau KM

List of Research Outputs

Fung Y.S. and Lau K.M., Separation and determination of cations in beverage products by capillary zone electrophoresis , Journal of Chromatography A. 2006, 1118: 144-150.

Researcher : Lau PKJ

List of Research Outputs

Lau P.K.J. and Wong W.T., Synthesis and structural characterization of a series of high-hydride content osmium-rhodium carbonyl complexes by the hydrogenation of arene-coordinated clusters, Dalton Transactions. 2005, 2005: 2579-2587.

Researcher : Law GL

List of Research Outputs

Li C., Li Y.X., Law G.L., Man K., Wong W.T. and Lei H., Fast water-exchange Gd³⁺-(DO3A-like) complex functionalized with aza-15-crown-5 showing prolonged residence lifetime in vivo, Bioconjugate Chemistry. 2006, 17(3): 571-574.

Wong K.L., Law G.L., Yang Y. and Wong W.T., A highly porous luminescent terbium - Organic framework for reversible anion sensing , Advanced Materials . 2006, 18: 1051-1054.

Researcher : Law GL

List of Research Outputs

Wong K.L., Law G.L., Yang Y. and Wong W.T., A highly porous luminescent terbium - Organic framework for reversible anion sensing , Advanced Materials . 2006, 18: 1051-1054.

Researcher : Law KL

List of Research Outputs

Law K.L., Lee O.Y. and Yang D., Lewis acid-catalyzed secondary amine formation via direct reductive amination of carbonyl compounds , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Lee O.Y., Law K.L., Ho C.Y. and Yang D., Highly chemoselective reductive amination of carbonyl compounds promoted by InCl₃, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22 . 2006.

Yip K.T.P., Yang M., Law K.L., Zhu N. and Yang D., Pd(II)-catalyzed enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions. Synthesis of Indolines through C-N and C-C bond formation, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 3130-3131.

Researcher : Law KL

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Lee HHF

List of Research Outputs

Peng Y., Yang P., Tanner J.A., Huang J., Li M., Lee H.H.F., Xu R.H., Kung H. and Lin M.C., Cold-inducible RNA binding protein is required for the expression of adhesion molecules and embryonic cell movement in Xenopus laevis, Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2006, 344: 416-424.

Researcher : Lee OY

List of Research Outputs

Law K.L., Lee O.Y. and Yang D., Lewis acid-catalyzed secondary amine formation via direct reductive amination of carbonyl compounds , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Lee O.Y., Law K.L., Ho C.Y. and Yang D., Highly chemoselective reductive amination of carbonyl compounds promoted by InCl₃, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22 . 2006.

Yip K.T.P., Li J., Lee O.Y. and Yang D., Aerobic oxidative cyclization under Pd(II) catalysis: A regioselective approach to heterocycles, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5717-5719.

Researcher : Lee TC

List of Research Outputs

Tsang K.Y., Lee T.C., Ren J., Chan G.K.Y., Wang H.Z. and Wang H., Platinum tungsten oxide (Pt-WO₃) nanoparticles: their preparation in glycol and electrocatalytic prperties , Journal of Experimental Nanoscience . 2006, 1: 113-123.

Researcher : Leung KH

List of Research Outputs

Phillips D.L., Che C.M., Leung K.H., Mao Z. and Tse M.C., A Comparative Study on Metal-metal Interaction in Binuclear Two- and Three-coordinated d¹⁰ -metal Complexes Spectroscopic Investigation of M(I)-M(I) Interaction in the ¹[ds*ps] Excited State of [M₂(dcpm)₂]²⁺ (dcpm = bis(dicyclohexylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) and [M₂(dmpm)₃]²⁺ (dmpm = bis(dimethylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) Complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. 2005, 249: 1476-1490.

Researcher : Leung KY

List of Research Outputs

Leung K.Y., Tsui W.M., Huang J.S., Che C.M., Liang J. and Zhu N., Imido Transfer from Bis(imido)ruthenium(VI) Porphyrins to Hydrocarbons: Effect of Imido Substituents, C-H Bond Dissociation Energies, and RuVI/V Reduction Potentials, Journal of the American Chemical Society. Columbus, USA, American Chemical Society, 2005, 127: 16629-16640.

Yu M.S., Leung K.Y., Lai S.W., Che C.M., Zee S.S.Y., So K.F., Yuen W.H. and Chang R.C.C., Neuroprotective effects of anti-aging oriental medicine Lycium barbarum against bamyloid peptide neurotoxicity, Experimental Gerontology. 2005, 40: 716-727.

Researcher : Leung KY

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Leung LT

List of Research Outputs

Chiu P., Leung L.T. and Leung S.K., Copper-catalyzed hydrostannation of activated alkynes, The 13^th IUPAC International Symposium Symposium on Organometallic Chemistry directed toward Organic Synthesis, Geneva, Switzerland, July 17-21. 2005, P-448.

Chiu P. and Leung L.T., Hydrostannation of activated alkynes mediated by Stryker's reagent, Pure and Applied Chemistry. 2006, 78: 281-285.

Leung L.T., Leung S.K. and Chiu P., Copper-catalyzed hydrostannation of activated alkynes , Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5249-5252.

Researcher : Leung SK

List of Research Outputs

Chiu P., Leung L.T. and Leung S.K., Copper-catalyzed hydrostannation of activated alkynes, The 13^th IUPAC International Symposium Symposium on Organometallic Chemistry directed toward Organic Synthesis, Geneva, Switzerland, July 17-21. 2005, P-448.

Leung L.T., Leung S.K. and Chiu P., Copper-catalyzed hydrostannation of activated alkynes , Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5249-5252.

Researcher : Li C

List of Research Outputs

Li C., Li Y.X., Law G.L., Man K., Wong W.T. and Lei H., Fast water-exchange Gd³⁺-(DO3A-like) complex functionalized with aza-15-crown-5 showing prolonged residence lifetime in vivo, Bioconjugate Chemistry. 2006, 17(3): 571-574.

Li C. and Yang D., First total synthesis of (-)-5-demethoxyfumagillol, The 231^st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30, 2006.

Li C. and Yang D., Total synthesis of (-)-5-demethoxyfumagillol, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Researcher : Li C

List of Research Outputs

Li C. and Yang D., First total synthesis of (-)-5-demethoxyfumagillol, The 231^st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30, 2006.

Li C. and Yang D., Total synthesis of (-)-5-demethoxyfumagillol, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Researcher : Li CK

List of Research Outputs

Li C.K., Cheng C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent phosphinocrown-containing gold (I) complexes: Their syntheses, spectroscopic studies and host-guest chemistry, Inorganica Chimica Acta . 2005, 358: 4191-4200.

Researcher : Li F

List of Research Outputs

Zu Y. and Li F., Characterization Of The Low-oxidation-potential Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence Of Tris(2,2′-bipyridine)ruthenium(ii) With Tri-n-propylamine As Coreactant , Analytica Chimica Acta. ELSVIER, 2005, 550: 47-52.

Researcher : Li H

List of Research Outputs

Li H., Fung K.L., Jin D., Chung S.S.M., Cing Y.P., Ng I.O.L., Sze K.H., Ko C.B. and Sun H., Solution structures and dynamics of the sterile of Motif (SAM) domain of the deleted in liver cancer 2 (DLC2): a monomeric structure with membrane-binding properties, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-17, p.33.

Wang H., Zhang Q., Cai B., Li H., Sze K.H., Huang Z.X., Wu H.M. and Sun H., Solution structure and dynamics of human metallothionein-3 (MT-3), FEBS Letters. 2006, 580: 795-800.

Researcher : Li HY

List of Research Outputs

Li H.Y., Lum C.T., Kung H.F., Che C.M. and Lin M.C., Genome-Wide Study Of The Anti-Tumor Effect Of Gold-1a, A Novel Chemo-Cytotoxic Agent For Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), Shanghai - Hong Kong International Liver Congress 2006; Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2006, 21 (Suppl. 2): A159.

Lum C.T., Yang Z., Li H.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Fan S.T., Poon R.T.P., Lin M.C., Che C.M. and Kung H., Gold(III) compound is a novel chemocytotoxic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma, International Journal of Cancer. 2006, 118(6): 1527-1538.

Researcher : Li J

List of Research Outputs

Li J., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Aryl lodide mediated aziridination of alkenes, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5801-5804.

Yip K.T.P., Li J., Lee O.Y. and Yang D., Aerobic oxidative cyclization under Pd(II) catalysis: A regioselective approach to heterocycles, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5717-5719.

Researcher : Li J

List of Research Outputs

Li J., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Aryl lodide mediated aziridination of alkenes, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5801-5804.

Yip K.T.P., Li J., Lee O.Y. and Yang D., Aerobic oxidative cyclization under Pd(II) catalysis: A regioselective approach to heterocycles, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5717-5719.

Researcher : Li KLC

List of Research Outputs

Li K.L.C., Sun R.W.Y., Kui C.F., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Anticancer cyclometalated [Au^III_m(C^N^C)_mL]ⁿ⁺compounds: Synthesis and cytotoxic properties , Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 5253-5266.

Researcher : Li L

List of Research Outputs

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂ reforming , Catalysis Letters. 2006, 108: 37-44.

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂, International Symposium on molecular Spectcoscopy, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., June 19-23, 2006. Poster No. RB06.

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂reforming , "Modern Development in Spectroscopy" Tulip Summer School, Noordwijk, The Netherlands, April 26-29, 2006. Poster No: 7.

Researcher : Li M

List of Research Outputs

Li M., Ng S.M., Wang J., Lai L., Leung S.Y., Franco M., Peng Y., He M.L., Kung H.F. and Lin M.C., EFA6A Enhances Glioma Cell Invasion through ADP Ribosylation Factor 6/Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Signaling (Li M. and Ng S.M. are equal first authors)., Cancer Research. 2006, 66(3): 1583-1590.

Li M., Chu B.W.K. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, characterization, spectroscopic, and electrochemiluminescence properties of a solvatochromic azacrown-containing cyanoruthenate(II): Potential applications in separation and indirect photometric detection of cations and amino acids in HPLC, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 3528-3537.

Peng Y., Yang P., Tanner J.A., Huang J., Li M., Lee H.H.F., Xu R.H., Kung H. and Lin M.C., Cold-inducible RNA binding protein is required for the expression of adhesion molecules and embryonic cell movement in Xenopus laevis, Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2006, 344: 416-424.

Wang J., Peng Y., Sun Y., He H., Zhu S., An X.M., Li M., Lin M.C., Zou B., Xia H.H.X., Jiang B., Chan O.O., Yuen R.M.F., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., All-Trans Retinoic Acid Induces XAF1 Expression Through an Interferon Regulatory Factor-1 Element in Colon Cancer, Gastroenterology. 2006, 130(3): 747-758.

Wang J., He H., Yu L., Xia H.H.X., Lin M.C., Gu Q., Li M., Zou B., An X.M., Jiang B., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., HSF1 down-regulates XAF1 through transcriptional regulation, Journal of Biological Chemistry. 2006, 281(5): 2451-2459.

Wang X., Li M., Wang J., Yeung C.M., Zhang H., Kung H., Jiang B. and Lin M.C., The BH3-only protein, PUMA, is involved in oxaliplatin-induced apoptosis in colon cancer cells, Biochemical Pharmacology. 2006, 71(11): 1540-1550.

Researcher : Li M

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Li Q

List of Research Outputs

Li Q. and Yam V.W.W., High-yield synthesis of selenium nanowires in water at room temperature, Chemical Communications. 2006, 1006-1008.

Researcher : Li S

List of Research Outputs

Zhang X., Ko Y.Y., Li S., Miao R. and Chiu P., Allenes as dipolarophiles in the intramolecular carbene cyclization-cycloaddition cascade reaction, Synlett. 2006, 1197-1200.

Researcher : Li YS

List of Research Outputs

Li X.P., Li Y.S., Li X., Chan L.Y., Peng Y. and Lin M.C., Inhibition of Human Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Growth and Metastasis in Mice by AAV Mediated Expression of Human Endostatin, GTCbio conference: Angiogenesis Research & Therapeutics Conference. San Diego, USA; 9-10 March, 2006.. 2006.

Li X.P., Li Y.S., Li X., Ding Y., Chan L.L.Y., Yang P., Li G., Liu X., Lin J.S., Wang J., He M.L., Kung H.F., Lin M.C. and Peng Y., Inhibition of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma growth and metastasis in mice by adenovirus-associated virus-mediated expression of human endostatin, Molecular Cancer Therapeutics. 2006, 5: 1290-1298.

Researcher : Li Z

List of Research Outputs

Fung Y.S., Zhu D., Li Z. and You T., "Electrophoretic nano-coating" (Chinese Patent No. CN-2005-1654558A) , Chinese Patent Office . 2005.

Fung Y.S., Zhu D., Li Z. and You T., "Electrophoretic nano-coating" (US-2005-0173248A1) , Unitied States Patent Office . 2005.

Researcher : Liang J

List of Research Outputs

Leung K.Y., Tsui W.M., Huang J.S., Che C.M., Liang J. and Zhu N., Imido Transfer from Bis(imido)ruthenium(VI) Porphyrins to Hydrocarbons: Effect of Imido Substituents, C-H Bond Dissociation Energies, and RuVI/V Reduction Potentials, Journal of the American Chemical Society. Columbus, USA, American Chemical Society, 2005, 127: 16629-16640.

Researcher : Lin MC

Project Title:	Basic research on systemic damage in early stage and wound-healing after severe trauma
Investigator(s):	Lin MC
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Matching Fund for National Key Basic Research Development Scheme (973 Projects)
Start Date:	04/2001

Abstract:

To study basic research on systemic damage in early stage and wound-healing after severe trauma.

Project Title:	Basic research on the mechanism of aging and the prevention of geriatric disease
Investigator(s):	Lin MC
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Matching Fund for National Key Basic Research Development Scheme (973 Projects)
Start Date:	12/2001

Abstract:

To study the mechanism of aging and the prevention of geriatric disease.

Project Title:	Characterization of a novel cell cycle related kinase in glioblastoma
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Leung SY, Ching YP
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2002

Abstract:

The project aims at characterizing the role of cell cycle related kinase (CCRK) in cell cycle control, apoptosis, cell division and cell proliferation. Potential tumorigenic function of CCRK in human glioblastoma, fibroblast cell lines, and nude mice xenograft will also be investigated.

Project Title:	Cancer gene therapy using a novel anti-cancer polypeptide hTERTC27 delivered by a novel AAV and Adenovirus Cocktail vector system
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Wong BCY, Kung H, Peng Y
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Innovation and Technology Support Programme
Start Date:	06/2003
Completion Date:	08/2006

Abstract:

To optimize our innovative, novel and patented hTERTC27 cancer gene therapy and the AAV/Adv cocktail vector technologies developed in our laboratory; to establish patented stable cell line and platforms for the large scale production of AAV-hTERTC27 and Adv-hTERTC27; to carry out, using the above, in pre-clinical study for treating solid tumors.

Project Title:	Molecular basis of alcohol-induced birth defects, the critical role of Pax 6
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Wong BCY, Yang JY, Peng Y
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To elucidate the signaling pathways leading to alcohol-mediated inhibition of Pax6 expression and to identify the targets downstream of Pax6 responsible for microcephaly. We are particularly interested in the involvements of the PI3 kinase pathways and the reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species; to investigate the molecular mechanisms for alcohol-induced growth retardation, in particular its relationship with gut development; to study alcohol induced eye deformation; to screen for agents that protect against alcohol induced birth defects.

Project Title:	Molecular basis of alcohol-induced birth defects, the critical role of Pax 6
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Wong BCY, Yang JY, Peng Y
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Molecular basis for the telomere dysfunction and anti-tumor activities of a C-terminal polypeptide of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERTC27)
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Wong BCY
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	12/2003
Completion Date:	11/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Gene therapy for the treatment of HBV infection, HBV-induced liver cancer
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Zheng B, Yuen KY, Kung H
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Innovation and Technology Support Programme
Start Date:	07/2004
Completion Date:	11/2005

Abstract:

To develop an innovative and effective gene therapies to treat HBV infection and HCC.

Project Title:	Development of Novel AAV based anti-angiogenesis gene therapy for the treatment of liver cancer
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Fan ST, Wong BCY, Ng SM, He ML, Gan R.B., Kung H
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Innovation and Technology Support Programme
Start Date:	08/2004
Completion Date:	11/2005

Abstract:

To develop an innovative and effective gene therapies to treat hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Project Title:	Cancer gene therapy using a novel anti-cancer polypeptide hTERTC27 delivered by a novel AAV and Adenovirus Cocktail vector system
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Kung H, Wong BCY
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Innovation and Technology Fund Internship Programme
Start Date:	09/2004
Completion Date:	07/2005

Abstract:

Project Title:	Characterizing the role of P13K signaling cascade in Xenopus neural induction
Investigator(s):	Lin MC
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Characterization of HNF-1 Cis-element as a novel insulin negative responsive element and identification of a new anti-diabetic drug targeting this element
Investigator(s):	Lin MC
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Characterization of HNF-1 Cis-element as a novel insulin negative responsive element and identification of a new anti-diabetic drug targeting this element
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Lu L, Tam S
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

To determine if the consensus HNF-1 element also displays negative insulin responsiveness; to determine the role of HNF1α versus HNF1β and mutant HNF-1α in this transcription regulation; to evaluate the therapeutic effects / molecular mechanisms of a new anti-diabetic drug targeting this INRE.

Project Title:	System biology study of a novel anti-angiogenesis polypeptide kringle 1 domain of hepatocyte growth factor
Investigator(s):	Lin MC, Yiu SM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

Kringle domain, a protein module consists of 80 amino acids, function as recognition units for binding of other proteins in solution and on cells. Several of the kringle domain peptide including Angiostatin has been shown to exhibit anti-angiogenesis effect. Recently, my laboratory studied the cancer therapeutic effect of a novel anti-angiogenesis polypeptide, kringle 1 domain of human hepatocyte growth factor (HGFK1). We demonstrated that using a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV) carrying the HGFK1 gene (rAAV-HGFK1), we can significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and vessel tube formation of mice microvascular endothelial cells in vitro. More importantly, in an in vivo preclinical study conducted in rat orthotropic model of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we showed that rAAV-HGFK1 is more potent than rAAV-Endostatin, the leading anti-angiogenesis gene, in prolonging the survival rate of the tumor bearing rats. Furthermore, rAAV-HGFK1 effectively inhibits tumor growth and metastasis. The objectives of the research proposal is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlie the anti-angiogenesis effect of HGFK1 polypeptide using System Biology approach, which will use bioinformatics to integrate data obtained from cDNA microarray experiments, Yeast two hybrid and Proteomic study. Multiple anti-angiogenesis molecules with different efficacies have been identified, however their underlying molecular mechansims remain elusive. These molecules potentially exert their effects through different signal pathways, with different interacting proteins and downstream targets. Information gained from this study will allow us to compare the molecular mechanisms of HGFK1 to that of the current leading anti-angiogenesis polypeptide Endostatin which has recently been reported using similar approaches (Abdollahi, A et al. Molecular Cell 13: 649-663, 2004).

List of Research Outputs

Cheung P.Y., Zhang Q., Zhang Y.O., Bai G.R., Lin M.C., Chan B., Fong C.C., Shi L., Shi Y.F., Chun J., Kung H.F. and Yang M., Effect of WeiJia on carbon tetrachloride induced chronic liver injury, World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2006, 12(12): 1912-1917.

Fan X.M., Jiang X., Gu Q., Ching Y.P., He H., Xia H.H.X., Lin M.C., Chan O.O., Yuen R.M.F., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., Inhibition of Akt/PKB by a COX-2 Inhibitor Induces Apoptosis in Gastric Cancer Cells, Digestion. 2006, 73(2-3): 75-83.

He H., Xia H.H.X., Wang J., Gu Q., Lin M.C., Zou B., Lam S.K., Chan O.O., Yuen R.M.F., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., Inhibition of human telomerase reverse transcriptase by nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs in colon carcinoma, Cancer. 2006, 106(6): 1243-9.

He M.L., Zheng B., Chen Y., Wong K.L., Huang J., Lin M.C., Peng Y., Yuen K.Y., Sung J.J. and Kung H.F., Kinetics and synergistic effects of siRNAs targeting structural and replicase genes of SARS-associated coronavirus., FEBS Letters. 2006, 580(10): 2414-2420.

Huo L., Tang J.W., Huang J.J., Huang P.T., Huang C.F., Kung H.F. and Lin M.C., Cancer immunotherapy targeting the telomerase reverse transcriptase, Cellular & molecular immunology. 2006, 3(1): 1-11.

Kung H.F. and Lin M.C., Biotherapy: Development for Novel Cancer Gene Therapy, Keynote Speaker at "Gene Therapy in the 21st Century" organized by International Society for Cell and Gene Therapy of Cancer. 9-11 December, 2005; Shenzhen, China.. 2005.

Li H.Y., Lum C.T., Kung H.F., Che C.M. and Lin M.C., Genome-Wide Study Of The Anti-Tumor Effect Of Gold-1a, A Novel Chemo-Cytotoxic Agent For Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), Shanghai - Hong Kong International Liver Congress 2006; Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2006, 21 (Suppl. 2): A159.

Li M., Ng S.M., Wang J., Lai L., Leung S.Y., Franco M., Peng Y., He M.L., Kung H.F. and Lin M.C., EFA6A Enhances Glioma Cell Invasion through ADP Ribosylation Factor 6/Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Signaling (Li M. and Ng S.M. are equal first authors)., Cancer Research. 2006, 66(3): 1583-1590.

Li X.P., Li Y.S., Li X., Chan L.Y., Peng Y. and Lin M.C., Inhibition of Human Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Growth and Metastasis in Mice by AAV Mediated Expression of Human Endostatin, GTCbio conference: Angiogenesis Research & Therapeutics Conference. San Diego, USA; 9-10 March, 2006.. 2006.

Li X.P., Li Y.S., Li X., Ding Y., Chan L.L.Y., Yang P., Li G., Liu X., Lin J.S., Wang J., He M.L., Kung H.F., Lin M.C. and Peng Y., Inhibition of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma growth and metastasis in mice by adenovirus-associated virus-mediated expression of human endostatin, Molecular Cancer Therapeutics. 2006, 5: 1290-1298.

Lin M.C., Cancer biology and gene therapy, Keynote Speaker at Cell Biology Meeting; This meeting is organized by Chinese Society of Cell Biology, China. 19-21 May 2006; Hangzhou, China.. 中國細胞生物學學會醫學細胞生物學專業委員會暨浙江、福建、遼寧三省細胞生物學學會學術大會, 2006.

Lin M.C., Cancer therapy targeting the telomerase reverse transcriptase C-terminal fragment hTERTC27, Invited Speaker at "Telomeres and Telomerase in Cancer Research"; 26-29 March, 2006; Academia Sinica, Taipei.. 2006.

Lin M.C., Organizing Committee, Shanghai-Hong Kong International Liver Congress; 25-28 March 2006. 2006.

Lin M.C., Lee P.Y., Zheng N., Yang P., Wong O.G., Kung H.F., Hui C.K., Luk J.M.C. and Lau G., Tumor necrosis factor-a-induced protein 1 and immunity to hepatitis B virus, World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2005, 11(48): 7564-8.

Liu J., Han Y. and Lin M.C., Cleft lip and/or palate in a low-resource province in China., International journal of gynecology and obstetrics. 2006, 93(2): 146-7.

Lum C.T., Yang Z., Li H.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Fan S.T., Poon R.T.P., Lin M.C., Che C.M. and Kung H., Gold(III) compound is a novel chemocytotoxic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma, International Journal of Cancer. 2006, 118(6): 1527-1538.

Luo C., Peng Y., Santti R., He M.L. and Lin M.C., COX-1 and -2 Expressions in Sex-Related Organs of Neonatally Estrogen-Treated Rats and in Activated and Nonactivated Macrophage RAW264.7 Cells with Phytoestrogen, Endocrine. 2006, 29(1): 161-167.

Peng Y., Yang P., Tanner J.A., Huang J., Li M., Lee H.H.F., Xu R.H., Kung H. and Lin M.C., Cold-inducible RNA binding protein is required for the expression of adhesion molecules and embryonic cell movement in Xenopus laevis, Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2006, 344: 416-424.

Sun R.W.Y., Lum C.T., Lin M.C., Kung H.F. and Che C.M., Gold (III) compounds as novel cytotoxic agents for hepatocellular carcinoma, Shanghai - Hong Kong International Liver Congress 2006; Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2006, 21(Suppl.2): A93-A94.

Wang J., Peng Y., Sun Y., He H., Zhu S., An X.M., Li M., Lin M.C., Zou B., Xia H.H.X., Jiang B., Chan O.O., Yuen R.M.F., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., All-Trans Retinoic Acid Induces XAF1 Expression Through an Interferon Regulatory Factor-1 Element in Colon Cancer, Gastroenterology. 2006, 130(3): 747-758.

Wang J., He H., Yu L., Xia H.H.X., Lin M.C., Gu Q., Li M., Zou B., An X.M., Jiang B., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., HSF1 down-regulates XAF1 through transcriptional regulation, Journal of Biological Chemistry. 2006, 281(5): 2451-2459.

Wang X., Li M., Wang J., Yeung C.M., Zhang H., Kung H., Jiang B. and Lin M.C., The BH3-only protein, PUMA, is involved in oxaliplatin-induced apoptosis in colon cancer cells, Biochemical Pharmacology. 2006, 71(11): 1540-1550.

Xia H.H.X., He H., Wang J., Gu Q., Lin M.C., Zou B., Yu L., Sun Y., Chan O.O., Kung H.F. and Wong B.C.Y., Induction of apoptosis and cell cycle arrest by a specific c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor, SP-600125, in gastrointestinal cancers., Cancer Letters. 2005, 241(2): 268-74.

Researcher : Lin X

List of Research Outputs

Lin X., Zhao C. and Phillips D.L., Modeling S_N2 reactions in methanol solution by ab initio calculation of Nucleophile solvent -- substrate clusters , Journal of Organic Chemistry . 2005, 70: 9279-9287.

Researcher : Liu B

List of Research Outputs

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂ reforming , Catalysis Letters. 2006, 108: 37-44.

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂, International Symposium on molecular Spectcoscopy, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., June 19-23, 2006. Poster No. RB06.

Liu B., Li L., Au C.T. and Cheung A.S.C., Investigation on reverse water-gas shift over La₂NiO₄ catalyst by cw-cavity enhanced absorption spectroscopy during CH₄/CO₂reforming , "Modern Development in Spectroscopy" Tulip Summer School, Noordwijk, The Netherlands, April 26-29, 2006. Poster No: 7.

Researcher : Liu J

List of Research Outputs

Liu J., Han Y. and Lin M.C., Cleft lip and/or palate in a low-resource province in China., International journal of gynecology and obstetrics. 2006, 93(2): 146-7.

Liu J., Yao J.F., Wang H. and Chan G.K.Y., Fabrication of porous polymer particles with high anion exchange capacity by amination reaction in aqueous medium , Green Chemistry. 2006, 8: 386-389.

Yao J., Wang H., Liu J., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Preparation of colloidal microporous carbon spheres from furfuryl alcohol, Carbon. 2005, 43: 1709-1715.

Researcher : Liu J

List of Research Outputs

Liu J., Han Y. and Lin M.C., Cleft lip and/or palate in a low-resource province in China., International journal of gynecology and obstetrics. 2006, 93(2): 146-7.

Liu J., Yao J.F., Wang H. and Chan G.K.Y., Fabrication of porous polymer particles with high anion exchange capacity by amination reaction in aqueous medium , Green Chemistry. 2006, 8: 386-389.

Yao J., Wang H., Liu J., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Preparation of colloidal microporous carbon spheres from furfuryl alcohol, Carbon. 2005, 43: 1709-1715.

Researcher : Liu Y

List of Research Outputs

Liu Y., Wong K.W., Ko C.B., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Synthesis and cytotoxicity studies of arternisinin derivatives containing lipophilic alkyl carbon chains , The 230^thAmerican Society National Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 28 August 2005 - 1 September 2005.

Lo K.Y., Liu Y., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Gold (III) salen complex-catalyzed synthesis of propargylamines via a theree-component coupling reaction , Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 1529-1532.

Researcher : Lo KY

List of Research Outputs

Lo K.Y., Liu Y., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Gold (III) salen complex-catalyzed synthesis of propargylamines via a theree-component coupling reaction , Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 1529-1532.

Researcher : Lo WY

List of Research Outputs

Cheng C.C., Lo W.Y., Yip S.K., Zhu N., Yuan L. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Soluble Polynuclear Gold(I) Chalcogenido and Alkynyl Aggregates, Abstract in the Pacifichem 2005 conference, Honolulu, USA, 15-20 December, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. E.C.C. Cheng). 2005.

Researcher : Lu C

List of Research Outputs

Zu Y. and Lu C., Selective detection of cysteine using gold nanoparticles, The ninth world congress on biosensors. 2006.

Researcher : Lu X

List of Research Outputs

Tang W.S., Lu X., Wong M.C. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, photophysics and binding studies of platinum(II) alkynyl terpyridine complexes with crown ether pendant. Potential luminescent sensors for metal ions, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 15: 2714-2720.

Researcher : Lui B

List of Research Outputs

Lui B., Enantionselective total synthesis of (-)-16-hydroxytriptolide (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Researcher : Lum CT

List of Research Outputs

Li H.Y., Lum C.T., Kung H.F., Che C.M. and Lin M.C., Genome-Wide Study Of The Anti-Tumor Effect Of Gold-1a, A Novel Chemo-Cytotoxic Agent For Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), Shanghai - Hong Kong International Liver Congress 2006; Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2006, 21 (Suppl. 2): A159.

Lum C.T., Yang Z., Li H.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Fan S.T., Poon R.T.P., Lin M.C., Che C.M. and Kung H., Gold(III) compound is a novel chemocytotoxic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma, International Journal of Cancer. 2006, 118(6): 1527-1538.

Sun R.W.Y., Lum C.T., Lin M.C., Kung H.F. and Che C.M., Gold (III) compounds as novel cytotoxic agents for hepatocellular carcinoma, Shanghai - Hong Kong International Liver Congress 2006; Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2006, 21(Suppl.2): A93-A94.

Researcher : Luo C

List of Research Outputs

Luo C., Peng Y., Santti R., He M.L. and Lin M.C., COX-1 and -2 Expressions in Sex-Related Organs of Neonatally Estrogen-Treated Rats and in Activated and Nonactivated Macrophage RAW264.7 Cells with Phytoestrogen, Endocrine. 2006, 29(1): 161-167.

Researcher : Ma C

List of Research Outputs

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Du Y., Kan T.W., Toy P.H. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time-resolved transient absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy study of the photodeprotection and rearrangement reactions of p-hydroxyphenacyl caged phosphates , Journal of the American Chemical Society . 2006, 128: 2558-2570.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Zuo P. and Phillips D.L., Using ultrafast time - resolved spectroscopy to investigate photo - deprotection related processes of the p-hydroxphenacyl caged phototrigger compounds, International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A.,December 15-20, 2005.

Phillips D.L., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Zuo P. and Chan W.S., Time - resolved resonance Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy studies of p-hydroxphenacyl caged photorigger compounds , International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., December 15-20, 2005.

Zuo P., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved resonance Raman and density functional theory study of deprotonation reaction of the triplet state of p-hydroxyacetophenone in water solution, Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2005, 70: 8661-8675.

Researcher : Ma CC

List of Research Outputs

Ma C.C., Zhao Y., Yam C.Y., Chen G. and Jiang Q., A tribological study of double-walled and triple-walled carbon nanotube oscillators, Nanotechnology. UK, Institute of Physics Publishing, 2005, 16: 1253-1264.

Zhao Y., Ma C.C., Wong L.H., Chen G., Xu Z.P., Zheng Q.S., Jiang Q. and Chwang A.T.Y., Energy Exchanges in Carbon Nanotube Oscillators, Nanotechnology. UK, Institute of Physics Publishing, 2006, 17: 1032-1035.

Researcher : Ma DL

List of Research Outputs

Ma D.L., Shum Y.T., Zhang F., Che C.M. and Yang M., Water soluble luminescent platinum terpyridine complexes wiht glycosylated acetylide and arylacetylide ligands: photoluminescent properties and cytotoxicities, Chemical Communications. 2005, 4675-4677.

Researcher : Mak SK

Project Title:	Design and Synthesis of Narrow Band Gap Materials for Photovoltaic Applications
Investigator(s):	Mak SK, Chan WK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

The objectives of the proposed research are to: i) extend the absorption region of the conjugated polymers by chemical synthetic tailoring the structure of the monomers and different chromophores and ii) increase the extent of interpenetration by either conjugatively linking or tethering the photosensitising dye (including metal complexes) and charge transporting material onto conjugated polymers/oligomers.

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Man KKY

List of Research Outputs

Chan W.K., Hui C.S., Man K.K.Y., Cheng K.W., Wong H.L., Zhu N. and Djurisic A., Synthesis and photosensitizing properties of conjugated polymers that contain chlorotricarbonyl bis(phenylimino)acenaphthene rhenium(I) complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 249: 1351-1359.

Chan W.K., Man K.K.Y. and Djurisic A., Use of organometallic polyelectrolytes for multilayer thin film deposition, American Chemical Society 230th National Meeting, Washington DC, August 28-September 1, 2005. . 2005.

Man K.K.Y., Wong H.L., Chan W.K., Djurisic A., Beach E. and Rozeveld S., Use of a ruthenium-containing conjugated polymer as a photosensitizer in photovoltaic devices fabricated by a layer-by-layer deposition process, Langmuir. American Chemical Society, 2006, 22: 3368-3375.

Oey C.C., Djurisic A., Wang H., Man K.K.Y., Chan W.K., Xie M.H., Leung Y.H., Pandey A., Nunzi J.M. and Chui P.C., Polymer-TiO₂ solar cells: TiO₂ interconnected network for improved cell performance, Nanotechnology. Bristol, IOP Publishing Limited, 2006, 17: 706-713.

Wang H., Oey C.C., Djurisic A., Xie M.H., Leung Y.H., Man K.K.Y., Chan W.K., Pandey A., Nunzi J.M. and Chui P.C., Titania bicontinuous network structures for solar cell applications, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2005, 87: 023507:1-3.

Researcher : Mao Z

List of Research Outputs

Phillips D.L., Che C.M., Leung K.H., Mao Z. and Tse M.C., A Comparative Study on Metal-metal Interaction in Binuclear Two- and Three-coordinated d¹⁰ -metal Complexes Spectroscopic Investigation of M(I)-M(I) Interaction in the ¹[ds*ps] Excited State of [M₂(dcpm)₂]²⁺ (dcpm = bis(dicyclohexylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) and [M₂(dmpm)₃]²⁺ (dmpm = bis(dimethylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) Complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. 2005, 249: 1476-1490.

Researcher : Miao R

List of Research Outputs

Zhang X., Ko Y.Y., Li S., Miao R. and Chiu P., Allenes as dipolarophiles in the intramolecular carbene cyclization-cycloaddition cascade reaction, Synlett. 2006, 1197-1200.

Researcher : Ng KM

Project Title:	Development of Chemical Imaging/Profiling Mass Spectrometric (CIMS) Technique for Chemical Analysis and Authentication of Chinese Materia Medica (CMM)
Investigator(s):	Ng KM, Zhao , Lau ASY, Che CM, Tam PKH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2005

Abstract:

Chinese Materia Medica (CMM) has been using for thousand of years to cure and prevent diseases. However, their efficacy has not received international recognition. The fundamental problem is the complex nature of chemicals in herbal medicines. This forms a huge challenge to many research institutions and pharmaceutical companies to produce consistent and efficacious products. Authentication of CMM is one of the most important steps in the quality control of botanical medicines [1,2]. It provides the correct identification of herbal materials, and differentiates different herbal materials with similar morphology. For instance, the roots of Gentiana scabra Bge and Sinopodophyllum hexandrum have very similar morphology. However, Sinopodophyllum hexandrum is toxic and need to have special preparation and instructions from practitioners, while Gentiana scabra Bge is not. Different techniques for the authentication include (i) morphological identification based on shape, color, texture and smell of the herbs [3], (ii) anatomical analysis based on microscopic examination of cell, tissues and internal pattern/structure [4], (iii) DNA-based markers method for identification of different species [1,2] and (iv) chemical pattern analysis based on thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with different detection systems, like photo-diode array (PDA) and mass spectrometer (MS) [5,6]. All these methods have their own limitations. For instances, morphological identification is highly dependent on the experience of the examiners. DNA-based markers method cannot provide any chemical composition information. The chemical compositions in herbal materials can be greatly affected by the variation of agricultural conditions, geographical locations, harvest time, different parts and species of herbal plants [7-9]. One of the major reasons is due to the variation of enzymatic activities being responsible for the formation/conversion of primary/secondary metabolites under different growing conditions [7-9]. The presence, absence and different distribution of phytochemicals in herbal plants can potentially form a unique characteristic for differentiating different species, parts and growing conditions of herbal plants. However, chemical analysis of CMM in a bulk form of extract by using TLC, or HPLC/PDA/MS method will loss the unique chemical distribution profile in the herbal materials. Moreover, the methods usually require sample treatment under different extraction conditions, such as high temperature conditions. This may destroy/change the chemical compounds, and thus being unable to measure the original chemical compositions. Development of a chemical imaging analytical method for measuring the spatial distribution of chemicals/phytochemicals in herbal tissues will be a breakthrough in the chemical analysis of CMM. The methodology can construct chemical imaging/profiling for herbal plant, which is specific for different parts and species of herbal plants grown under different agricultural conditions. It is a potential methodology for the authentication of CMM. The schematic diagram showing the working principle of measuring a chemical imaging/profiling of CMM is depicted in Figure 1 (as shown in Research Plan and Methodology). In the process, a laser beam hit on the cross-section of a plant tissue will cause phytochemicals desorbed from different positions. The desorbed ions are then pushed from an electrical conductive slide, on which the plant tissue is placed. The desorbed chemical ions in the gas phase will be detected by a mass spectrometer. Those ion peaks recorded in mass spectra represent the chemicals at different positions of the cross-section. The ion peaks in the mass spectra can then be reconstructed by using an imaging software to generate a chemical image, which can show the spatial distribution of phytochemicals in the plant tissue. In fact, chemical imaging/profiling mass spectrometry using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) method has been being developed as a valuable and important analytical tool in many areas of biomedical science [10,11]. This technique was firstly introduced in 1999 [12] for the analysis of peptides/proteins desorbed directly from intact biological tissues without any sample treatment. With the advancement of the technique, it is further extended to analyze the spatial distribution of drugs and their metabolites in different biological tissues, like rat liver and human ovarian tumor xenograft tissue [13]. However, the application of this technology in measuring the chemical profile distribution of phytochemicals/secondary metabolites in plant tissue has not been explored yet. In this project, our ultimate objective is to develop a molecularly and spatially resolved chemical imaging methodology for measuring the distribution of phytochemicals in the cross-section of herbal tissue. Specifically, we are trying to develop a methodology for differentiating different species of herbal plants grown under different agricultural conditions based on the presence, absence and different distribution of chemicals in herbal tissues. Panax ginseng C.A. Mey (Asian Ginseng) and Panax quinquefolium L. (American Ginseng) with huge markets in both eastern countries and western countries will be taken as the examples for the method development. 1. Liang Y.Z., Xie P. and Chan K. "Quality Control of Herbal Medicines", Journal of Chromatography B, 812, 53 - 70 (2004) 2. Shaw P.C., Wang J. and But P.P.H. "Authentication of Chinese Medicinal Materials by DNA Technology", The Chinese University of Hong Kong, World Scientific, Singapore (2002) 3. Zhao Z.Z. An Illustrated Chinese Materia Medica In Hong Kong, Chung Hwa Book Co., (H.K.) LTD. (Chinese and English Version) (2004) 4. Zhao Z.Z. An Illustrated Microscopic Identification of Chinese Materia Medica. Chung Hwa Book Co., (H.K.) LTD.(Chinese and English Version) (2005) 5. Niessen W.M.A., "Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry", Second Edition, Dekker, New York (1999) 6. Bringmann G., Messer K., Wohlarth M., Kraus J., Dumbuya K. and Ruckert M. "HPLC-CD On-Line Coupling in Combination with HPLC-NMR and HPLC-MS/MS for the Determination of the Full Absolute Stereostructure of New Metabolites in Plant Extracts", Analytical Chemistry, 71, 2678 - 2686 (1999) 7. Vickery M. L. and Vickery B. "Secondary Plant Metabolism" Macmillan Press, London (1981) 8. Smirnoff N. "Environment and Plant Metabolism - flexibility and acclimation", Bios Scientific, UK (1995) 9. Emes M. J. "Compartmentation of Plant Metabolism in Non-Photosynthetic Tissues", Cambridge University Press, Cambridge (1991) 10. Caldwell R.L. and Caprioli R.M. "Tissue Profiling by Mass Spectrometry", Molecular and Cellular Proteomics, 4.4, 394 - 401 (2005) 11. Rohner T.C., Staab D. and Stoeckli M. "MALDI Mass Spectrometric Imaging of Biological Tissue Sections", Mechanisms of Ageing and Development, 126, 177 - 185 (2005) 12. Chaurand P., Stoeckli M. and Caprioli R.M. "Direct Profiling of Proteins in Biological Tissue Sections by MALDI Mass Spectrometry" Analytical Chemistry, 71, 5263 - 5270 (1999) 13. Troendle F., Reddick C.D. and Yost R.A. "Detection of Pharmaceutical Compounds in Tissue by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption / Ionization and Laser Desorption / Chemical Ionization Tandem Mass Spectrometry with a Quadrupole Ion Trap", Journal of American Society for Mass Spectrometry, 10, 1315 - 1321 (1999) 14. Schwartz S.A., Reyzer M.L. and Caprioli R.M. "Direct Tissue Analysis Using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry: Practical Aspects of Sample Preparation", Journal of Mass Spectrometry, 38, 699 - 708 (2003)

List of Research Outputs

Ng K.M., Che C.M., Wo S.K., Tam P.K.H. and Lau A.S.Y., Analytical Application of Acetate Anion in Negative Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry for the Analysis of Triterpenoid Saponins - Ginsenosides , Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry. John Wiley and Sons, 2006, 20: 1545 - 1550.

Ng K.M., Liang Z.T. and Zhao Z.Z., Direct Analysis of Morphinane Alkaloids from Stem Tissue of Sinomenium acutum by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Mass Spectrometry, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong. 2006, April 22: O-44.

Ng K.M., Oral Presentation: Mass Spectrometric Platform for Quality Control and Development of Botanical Medicines, Traditional Chinese Medicine Workshop, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong. 2006.

Researcher : Ng SM

Project Title:	Molecular cloning and functional characterization of the human cell cycle related kinase-interacting proteins
Investigator(s):	Ng SM, Lin MC
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

1. To clone the genes encoding the proteins that specifically interact with CCRK in a yeast two-hybrid screening. 2. To elucidate the functional roles of the CCRK-interacting proteins in glioblastoma carcinogenesis.

List of Research Outputs

Li M., Ng S.M., Wang J., Lai L., Leung S.Y., Franco M., Peng Y., He M.L., Kung H.F. and Lin M.C., EFA6A Enhances Glioma Cell Invasion through ADP Ribosylation Factor 6/Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Signaling (Li M. and Ng S.M. are equal first authors)., Cancer Research. 2006, 66(3): 1583-1590.

Ng S.M., Chow B.K.C. and Wong V.C.N., The human secretin gene in children with autistic spectrum disorder: screening for polymorphisms and mutations., Journal of Child Neurology. 2005, 20(8): 701-704.

Researcher : Pang HF

List of Research Outputs

Ye J., Pang H.F. and Cheung A.S.C., Optical-optical double resonance spectroscopy of yttrium monohalides , International Symposium on Molecular Spectroscopy, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., June 19-23, 2006. Poster No. RH11.

Researcher : Phillips DL

Project Title:	Time-resolved resonance raman and density functional theory investigation of the intermediates and mechanism of photorelease in selected benzoin and hydroxyphenacyl esters in aqueous solutions
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002
Completion Date:	12/2006

Abstract:

The project uses time-resolved resonance Raman spectroscopy to obtain the structural information for selected benzoin and p-hydroxyphenacyl derivatives and their reaction intermediates. This research should provide valuable insight into the identity and structures of the reaction intermediates involved in the photorelease mechanisms in the important new phototrigger compounds.

Project Title:	Time-Resolved Resonance Raman and Density Functional Theory investigation of the structure, properties and chemical reactivity of selected weakly bound species containing S and/or halogen atoms
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

The proposed study will provide important characterization and insight into the structures, properties and chemical reactivity of selected radical cations, radical anions and neutral species containing weak bonds formed from a singly occupied sulfur or halogen p orbital and lone pairs of S or halogen atoms. This fundamental work will lead to an improved understanding of the likely role of these species in the biological activity of many proteins, enzymes and antibiotics as well as in protection mechanisms for biological systems attacked by ionizing radiation or other kinds of free-radical damage. The propossed work for halogen containing systems should help elucidate the likely role of these types of species in environmental and atmospheric chemistry. Comparison of the 2c-3e bonding in the radical cation and anion complexes to those of the isopolyhalomethane and halogenated solvent-halogen atom complexes that are neutral species should enable an improved understanding of how the structure, properties and chemical reactivity vary with oxidation state for these loosely bound complexes.

Project Title:	Time-Resolved Resonance Raman and Density Functional Theory investigation of the structure, properties and chemical reactivity of selected weakly bound species containing S and/or halogen atoms
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Investigation of Water Assisted Dehalogenation Reactions of Polyhalomethanes and Other Selected Halogenated Compounds
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	07/2004

Abstract:

To study: (1) observe and characterize the structure, properties and chemical reactivity of the reaction intermediates involved in the dehalogenation reactions of polyhalomethanes and other selected halogenated compounds in water solution using picosecond and nanosecond time-resolved resonance Raman spectroscopy. (2) the final products from these photochemical dehalogenation reactions will be determined using a variety of spectroscopic and analytical techniques like UV/VIS, ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR, infrared absorption, pH measurements in combination with laser photochemistry experiments. (3) Ab initio chemical reaction calculations will be used to elucidate the reaction pathways and probable role of water solvent molecules in the dehalogenation reactions of polyhalomethanes and other selected halgoenated compounds to be studied and compared to the experimental results of parts 1 and 2. This will help to elucidate the reaction mechanism(s) of the dehalogenation reactions.

Project Title:	Development of novel formulations for coatings and paints employing nanotechnology
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL, Chan WK, Yuen S.W., Leung K.H.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Applied Research
Start Date:	10/2004

Abstract:

To collaborate with Manfield Coatings Co. Ltd., develop new coating and paint products especially those that employ nanotechnology additives that will meet the specifications of their customers who needs it for manufacturing new advanced electronic products.

Project Title:	Time-resolved spectroscopic and density functional theory investigations of selected chemical reactions relevant to damage and repair of DNA
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

To use time-resolved resonance Raman spectroscop yexperiments and density functional theory calculations to directly probe the structure, properties and chemical reactivity of the intermediates of DNA photolyase photorepair processes and reactions of selected arynitrenium ions and related model compounds for these species.

Project Title:	Investigation of Water Assisted Dehalogenation Reactions of Polyhalomethanes and Other Selected Halogenated Compounds
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Time-Resolved Resonance Raman and Optical Kerr-Gated Fluorescence Studies of Photorepair Processes in DNA Photolyase and Selected Model Compounds
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Time-Resolved Resonance Raman Studies of Arylnitrenium Ions and Their Reactions with Guanine Compounds
Investigator(s):	Phillips DL
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006
Completion Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

Carcinogenic aromatic amine compounds have been observed in automobile exhaust, tobacco smoke, fermented fish and as trace products in various industrial processes. When these aromatic amines are metabolised by animals and humans, they can damage guanine bases in DNA that then leads to an increase in the probability for formation of tumors and cancer. Arylnitrenium ions are the key reactive intermediates in the metabolism of several typical carcinogenic aromatic amines that selectively react with guanine in DNA. The major purpose of this proposed research is to better understand the strucure and chemical reactivity of arylnitrenium ions and their reactions with gunaine derivatives. It is therefore very important to characterise these arylnitrenium ions and their reactions with guanine derivatives in detail. To date, there have not been that many vibrational spectroscopic level structural information available for many arylnitrenium ions and their reactions with guanine derivatives. A general objective of the proposed research is to use time-resolved resonance Raman spectroscopy to acquire this missing structural information for selected arylnitrenium ions and their reactions with guanine derivatives. We want to continue some preliminary experiments in this area to strengthen a RGC proposal that we will submit in this important fundamental area related to chemical damage of DNA by carcinogenic aromatic amines. Our preliminary work supported by this project will also result in at least one publication in a top SCI peer-reviewed journal. Our work on this project will focus on trying to understand why several para-phenyl substituted phenylnitrenium ions like the 2-fluorenylnitrenium and 4biphenylnitrenium ions predominantly form C8 adduct species after reaction with guanine derivatives or DNA. Metabolism of 2-aminofluorene and 4-aminobiphenyl produce C8 adducts after in vivo and in vitro reaction with DNA. The reaction mechanism for how these C8 adducts are made is not yet known and is relatively poorly understood in part because it is difficult to directly observe the intermediates leading to formation of the stable C8 adducts. Three different reaction mechanisms have been proposed for the formation of the C8 adducts and only recently has a C8 intermediate been observed. We propose to explore the reaction of the 2-fluorenylnitrenium ion with different guanine derivatives to increase our understanding for how the C8 intermediate and C8 adduct species are formed as well as to better characterise the chemical reactivity of the 2-fluorenylnitrenium ion. Further experiments may be done to explore how the amount of quinoidal character of the arylnitrenium ions influences the chemcial reactivity of these important intermediates. In particular, the 4-biphenylnitrenium ion is known to have noticeably less quinoidal character than the 2-fluorenylnitrenium ion. Comparison of similar results for both species reactions with guanine derivatives should reveal how the quinoidal character of the arylnitrenium ion affects the chemical reactivity of arylntirenium ions with guanine.

List of Research Outputs

Chen X.B., Fang W.H. and Phillips D.L., Theoretical studies of the photochemcial dynamics of acetylacetone , Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2006, 110: 4434-4441.

Cheng K.F., Shi Y., Zheng X. and Phillips D.L., Resonance raman investigation of the short-time photodissociation dynamics of the cbarge-transfer absorption I₂-benzene complex in benzene solution , Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2006, 110: 851-860.

Clarke T.M., Gordon K.C., Chan W.S., Phillips D.L., Wanger P.W. and Officer D.L., Raman spectroscopy of short-lived terthiophene radical cations generated by photochemical and chemical oxidation, Chem Phys Chem. 2006, 7: 12476-1285.

Clarke T.M., Gordon K.C., Kwok W.M., Phillips D.L. and Officer D.L., Turning from pp^*to charge-transfer excited states in styryl-substituted terthiophenes: An ultrafast and steady-state emission study, Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2006, 110: 7696-7702.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Leung Y.H., Xie M.H., Chen H.Y., Wu C.L. and Gwo S., Optical properties of highly faceted ZnO rods, Journal of Applied Physics. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2006, 99: 033517: 1-6.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Phillips D.L. and Chan W.K., Stimulated emission in ZnO nanostructures: A time-resolved study, Journal of Physical Chemistry B. American Chemical Society, 2005, 109: 19228-19233.

Djurisic A., Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Lin M.S. and Gwo S., Ultrafast spectroscopy of stimulated emission in single ZnO tetrapod nanowires, Nanotechnology. Bristol, IOP Publishing Limited, 2006, 17: 244-249.

Du Y., Guan X., Kwok W.M., Chu L.M. and Phillips D.L., Comparison of the dehalogenation of dihalomethanes (CH₂XI, where X = Cl , Br, I) following ultraviolet photolysis in aqueous and NaCL saltwater environments, Journal of Physical Chemistry A. 2005, 109: 5872-5882.

Ellepola S.W., Choi E.S.M., Phillips D.L. and Ma C.Y., Raman spectroscopic study of rice globulin, Journal of Cereal Science. 2006, 43: 85-93.

Guan X., Phillips D.L. and Yang D., A density functional theory study of the 5-Exo cyclization reaction of a-substituted 6, 6-dipheny-5-hexenyl radicals , Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2006, 71: 1984-1988.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Phillips D.L., Chen H.Y., Wu C.L., Gwo S. and Xie M.H., Study of excitonic emission in highly faceted ZnO rods, Chemical Physics Letters. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 412: 141-144.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved photoluminescence from ZnO nanostructures, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2005, 87: 223111: 1-3.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved photoluminescence study of the stimulated emission in ZnO nanoneedles, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2005, 87: 093108:1-3.

Kwok W.M., Leung Y.H., Phillips D.L., Chan W.K. and Djurisic A., Ultrafast time - and wavelength - resolved photoluminescence study of stimulated emission on selected ZnO nanostructures , International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFICHEM 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., Dec 15-20,. 2005.

Kwok W.M., Djurisic A., Leung Y.H., Chan W.K., Lin M.S., Gwo S. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time - and wavelength - resolved photoluminescence study of stimulated emission on selected ZnO nanostructures , The 4th Asian Conference on Ultrafast Phenomena, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, January 8-11, 2006.

Lai S.W., Hou Y., Chan S.C., Zhang J., Che C.M., Kwok W.M. and Phillips D.L., Photo-reduction of methylviologen in alcohol solutions using luminescent platinum(II) photocatalysts, 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 15-20 December. 2005.

Lin X., Zhao C. and Phillips D.L., Modeling S_N2 reactions in methanol solution by ab initio calculation of Nucleophile solvent -- substrate clusters , Journal of Organic Chemistry . 2005, 70: 9279-9287.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Du Y., Kan T.W., Toy P.H. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time-resolved transient absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy study of the photodeprotection and rearrangement reactions of p-hydroxyphenacyl caged phosphates , Journal of the American Chemical Society . 2006, 128: 2558-2570.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Zuo P. and Phillips D.L., Using ultrafast time - resolved spectroscopy to investigate photo - deprotection related processes of the p-hydroxphenacyl caged phototrigger compounds, International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A.,December 15-20, 2005.

Phillips D.L., Che C.M., Leung K.H., Mao Z. and Tse M.C., A Comparative Study on Metal-metal Interaction in Binuclear Two- and Three-coordinated d¹⁰ -metal Complexes Spectroscopic Investigation of M(I)-M(I) Interaction in the ¹[ds*ps] Excited State of [M₂(dcpm)₂]²⁺ (dcpm = bis(dicyclohexylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) and [M₂(dmpm)₃]²⁺ (dmpm = bis(dimethylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) Complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. 2005, 249: 1476-1490.

Phillips D.L., Zhao C. and Wang D., A theoretical study of the mechanism of the water-catalyzed HCL elimination reactions of CHXCI(OH) (X = H, CI) and HCICO in the gas phase and in aqueous solution , Journal of Physical Chaemistry A . 2005, 109: 9653-9673.

Phillips D.L., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Zuo P. and Chan W.S., Time - resolved resonance Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy studies of p-hydroxphenacyl caged photorigger compounds , International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., December 15-20, 2005.

Zuo P., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved resonance Raman and density functional theory study of deprotonation reaction of the triplet state of p-hydroxyacetophenone in water solution, Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2005, 70: 8661-8675.

Researcher : Ren J

List of Research Outputs

Tsang K.Y., Lee T.C., Ren J., Chan G.K.Y., Wang H.Z. and Wang H., Platinum tungsten oxide (Pt-WO₃) nanoparticles: their preparation in glycol and electrocatalytic prperties , Journal of Experimental Nanoscience . 2006, 1: 113-123.

Researcher : Ruan D

List of Research Outputs

Ruan D., Lam N.W., Orlova G. and Chu I.K., Facile generation and characterization of cationic radical peptides: Ligand effect and peptide structures, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006. Poster No. A18.

Researcher : Sham IHT

Project Title:	Magnitized dendrimers and hyperbranched polymers for controlled delivery of targeted drugs
Investigator(s):	Sham IHT, Che CM, Kung H
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To achieve controlled delivery of drugs to target sites using magnetized dendrimers and hyperbranched polymers as vehicles.

List of Research Outputs

Che C.M. and Sham I.H.T., Borazine-based electroluminescent materials with high thermal stability, hole and electron mobilities for electroluminescent devices., 2005, US 2005153164.

Sham I.H.T., Kwok C.C., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Borazine materials for organic optoelectronic applications, Chemical Communications. Cambridge, U.K., Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 3547-3549.

Researcher : Shiu HYF

List of Research Outputs

Yu K.Y., Lam N.W., Shiu H.Y.F., Yves Le Blanc J.C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SbSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic arabidopsis by means of tandem mass spectrometry , Poster Presentation in Proceedings of 54th ASMS Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topies, Seattle, Washington State, U.S.A., May 28 - June 1, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. 466.

Yu K.Y., Lam N.W., Shiu H.Y.F., Yves Le Blanc J.C., Lo C.S.C. and Chu I.K., Identification and characterization of SbSTS1-derived secondary metabolites in transgenic arabidposis by means of tandem mass spectrometry, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong , University of Science & Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. A23.

Researcher : Shum YT

List of Research Outputs

Ma D.L., Shum Y.T., Zhang F., Che C.M. and Yang M., Water soluble luminescent platinum terpyridine complexes wiht glycosylated acetylide and arylacetylide ligands: photoluminescent properties and cytotoxicities, Chemical Communications. 2005, 4675-4677.

Researcher : Si S

List of Research Outputs

Fung Y.S., Zhang Y., Si S., Sun H. and Yao S.Z., DNA Piezoelectric Quartz Crystal Biosensors , In: (C.A. Grimes, E.C. Dickey and M.V. Pishko, eds), Encyclopedia of Sensors, First Edition. American Scientific Publishers, 2006, 2: 439-450.

Fung Y.S., Si S., Zhang Y. and Zhu D., Piezoelectric immunosensors for detection of bacteria, In: (C.A. Grimes, E.C. Dickey and M.V. Pishko, eds), Encyclopedia of Sensors, First Edition . American Scientific Publishers, CA, USA, 2006, 7: 451-462.

Si S., Fung Y.S. and Zhu D., Improvement of piezoelectric crystal sensor for the detection of organic vapors using nanocrystalline TiO₂ films, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 165-171.

Sun H., Zhang Y., Si S., Zhu D. and Fung Y.S., Piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) with photochemically deposited nano-sized Ag particles for determining cyanide at trace levels in water, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 925-932.

Researcher : Siu AFM

Project Title:	Characterisation of neurotransmitters
Investigator(s):	Siu AFM, Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To study neurotransmitter on the following two aspects: (1) characterisation of the molecular interactions between neurotransmitters (dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine etc) and ions (Na⁺, etc); (2) characterisation of the conformational change of neurotransmitters at the model protein receptor binding sites.

List of Research Outputs

Luk J.M.C., Lam C.T., Siu A.F.M., Lam B.Y.H., Ng I.O.L., Hu M.Y., Che C.M. and Fan S.T., Proteomic profiling of hepatocellular carcinoma in Chinese cohort reveals heat-shock proteins (Hsp27, Hsp70, GRP78) up-regulation and their associated prognostic values, Proteomics . 2006, 6(3): 1049-1057.

Researcher : Siu SO

List of Research Outputs

Lam N.W., Siu S.O., Orlova G. and Chu I.K., Macrocyclic effect of auxiliary ligand on the gas phase dissociation of ternary copper(II)–GGX complexes, Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry. 2006, 20: 790-796.

Siu S.O., Cox D., Lee C.K.F., Yeung W.S.B. and Chu I.K., Characterization of N-linked Glycosylation sites and glycams of glycodelins by means of tandem mass spectrometry, 54th American Society for Mass Spectrometry Conference, Seattle, USA. 2006.

Siu S.O., Cox D., Lee C.K.F., Yeung W.S.B. and Chu I.K., Characterization of N-linked glycosylation sites and glycans of glycodelins by means of tandem mass spectrometry , Poster Presentation in Proceedings of 54th ASMS Conference on Mass Spectrometry and Allied Topies, Seattle, Washington State, U.S.A., May 28 - June 1, 2006 . 2006, Poster No. 394.

Siu S.O., Cox O., Lee C.K.F., Yeung W.S.B. and Chu I.K., Characterization of N-linked glycosylation sites and glycans of glycodelins by means of tandem mass spectrometry, Poster Presentation in 13rd Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong . 2006, A19.

Researcher : So MH

List of Research Outputs

Chen R., So M.H., Che C.M. and Sun H., Controlled synthesis of high crystalline bismuth sulfide nanorods: using bisumth citrate as a precursor, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 4540-4545.

Chen R., So M.H., Yang J., Deng F., Che C.M. and Sun H., Fabrication of bismuth subcarbonate nanotube arrays from bismuth citrate, Chemical Communications. 2006, 2265-2267.

Researcher : Sun D

List of Research Outputs

Fung Y.S., Sun D. and Yeung C.Y., Capillary electrophoresis for binding study of bilirubin to human serum proteins, Abstract of 8^th Asian Conference on Analytical Sciences (Asianalysis VIII), Taipei, Taiwan, October 16-20, 2005. KA-06: 62.

Fung Y.S., Sun D. and Yeung C.Y., Capillary electrophoresis for binding study of bilirubin to human serum proteins, Invited Lecture at 8^th Asian Conference on Analytical Science (Asianalysis VIII), Taipei, Taiwan, October 16-20, 2005. 2005.

Researcher : Sun H

Project Title:	Recognition of antimonials by lactoferrin and trypanothione: implications for uptake, activation and targeting
Investigator(s):	Sun H, Chow L.M.C.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	08/2002
Completion Date:	07/2005

Abstract:

The project focuses on the interaction between antimony antileishmanial agents and peptides and proteins. The project aims at understanding the recognition of antimonial drugs and related compounds by lactoferrin (and transferrin) and investigating the possible reduction of two oxidation states (Sbv to SbIII) and further complexation of SbIII with trypanothione.

Project Title:	The molecular basis of biological functions of the neuronal growth inhibitory factor (metallothionein-3)
Investigator(s):	Sun H, Huang Z.X.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	NSFC/RGC Joint Research Scheme
Start Date:	01/2003
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

To provide a clear and precise picture of the structure of MT-3 and its relation to the biological functions, and moreover, to establish a state-of-the-art center for the study of metalloproteins.

Project Title:	Characterization of a nickel-storage protein Hpn: its relation with bismuth antiulcer drugs
Investigator(s):	Sun H, Huang J
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To evaluate the nickel binding properties of the protein. Hpn will be overexpressed in E. coli using recombinant DNA technology; to evaluate the effects that nickel (and zinc) have upon Hpn secondary structure and stability; to get preliminary data on the three-dimensional structure of the protein. The protein structure will be investigated by NMR spectroscopy and other spectroscopic techniques.; to investigate the competitive binding of bismuth and Ni² to Hpn and the structural differences between the Ni²⁺ and Bi³⁺ loaded forms.

Project Title:	Characterization of a nickel-storage protein Hpn: its relation with bismuth antiulcer drugs
Investigator(s):	Sun H
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Bismuth and Zinc Complexes as Antiviral and Anticancer Agents
Investigator(s):	Sun H, Zheng B
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2005
Completion Date:	05/2006

Abstract:

Both bismuth (Bi) and zinc (Zn) compounds have long been associated with medicine, and particularly used as antimicrobial agents in clinical [1,2]. For example, colloidal bismuth subcitrate (De-Nel®) and rantidine bismuth citrate (Pylorid®) have been recommended as a standard treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection and peptic ulcer together with antibiotics [3]. Zinc compounds (e.g., Zenullose) were also showed effective for the treatment of the common cold, a disease caused by rhinoviruses although the mechanism of action remains unclear. Since zinc is an essential element and bismuth is nearly non-toxic, in contrast to other heavy metals, it would be very important and interesting to develop bismuth- and zinc-containing compounds as potential either antiviral or anticancer agents. Our preliminary work has showed that the clinically used bismuth compound (Pylorid®) can effectively inhibit the production of SARS-CoV in vitro (FRhk-4 cells) with extremely high selectivity (EC50: CC50= 5.9 µM: 5 mM). Zinc compound was recently found to be active against 3C-like proteinase (3CL), an essential protein fore the life cycle of SARS-CoV [4]. Promising anticancer activities of bismuth and zinc complexes were also demonstrated [5]. Using our initial work as a foundation, we will combine the expertise of PI and Co-I to design and synthesize bismuth- and zinc-containing complexes as antiviral and anticancer agents and explore the structure-and-activity relationship. This study will not only improve our knowledge of the medicinal chemistry of bismuth and zinc (as novel antiviral and anticancer agents), but also offer a basis to attract an external funding. We intend to achieve three separate but closely related objectives: (A) To design and synthesize Bi- and Zn-containing complexes for biological tests; (B) To study biocoordination chemistry of these complexes under biologically relevant conditions; (C) To screen antiviral and anticancer activities in different systems.

Project Title:	Functional and structural characterization of lipoprotein MtsA in MtsABC responsible for transport of iron and other metal ions in Streptococcus pyogenes
Investigator(s):	Sun H, He Q
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

To comprehensively investigate the metal binding properties of MtsA; to study the function-structure relationship of MtsA.

Project Title:	Metal-based Drug Design: Bismuth Complex as an Antiviral Agent
Investigator(s):	Sun H
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Metal-based Drug Design: Bismuth Complex as an Antiviral Agent
Investigator(s):	Sun H, Zheng B
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

(1) To design and synthesize novel bismuth containing complexes for antiviral tests. Our preliminary data showed that both ranitidine bismuth and Bi(NTA) can effectively inhibit SARS-CoV helicase (IC50 < 1 μM), indicating that the Bi3+ plays the crucial role in the inhibitory effects. (2) To characterize their structures and stabilities under biological conditions. In order to determine the potential structure-activity relationship of these complexes, their structures will be investigated by various chemical and biochemical techniques (e.g., X-ray crystallography and NMR spectroscopy). (3) To test antiviral activities of these complexes in different systems. An efficiency cell culture system for SARS, HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) has been established in the Co-I’s laboratory.

Project Title:	The role of metal ions on protein structural and conformational changes and folding - potential relevance to diseases
Investigator(s):	Sun H
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Matching Fund for NSFC Young Researcher Award
Start Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

To investigate the role of metal ions on protein structural and conformational changes and folding - potential relevance to diseases.

Project Title:	Identification of Metal-binding Proteins in Microorganisms by Metalloproteome
Investigator(s):	Sun H
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

There is an increasing interest in the analysis of proteins carrying out all functional work in cells in the post-genome era [1,2]. The term “proteomics” refers to the global analysis of the gene and cellular function at the protein level in a complex biological system at a given time. Proteomics has mainly been used to determine protein express levels, post-translational modification, localizations and protein-protein interactions as well as protein structures, the so-called “structural genomics” using biological mass spectrometry and X-ray crystallography/NMR spectroscopy with the aid of various data base. “Metalloproteome” is a special proteomics strategy for the analysis of metal transporting or metal-binding proteins, and has the potential to uncover how a large number of metallo-proteins function in normal or metal-associated diseased /metallodrug treated states [3,4]. Immobilized-metal-affinity chromatography (IMAC) has been widely used to pre-fractionalize proteins previously and recently to selectively identify/enrich metal-“associated” proteins. Metal ions such as iron, copper and zinc are essential for lives; metal-related diseases have been well known. The use of Cu- and other IMAC technology and mass spectrometry allows copper and zinc “metallproteome” to be analyzed in several cell lines [5]. The success of cisplatin [cis-diamminedichloroplatinum(II)] as an anticancer drug has stimulated the use of metal-containing compounds for therapy and medical diagnosis [6,7]. Both bismuth (e.g. colloidal bismuth subcitrate (CBS) and ranitidine bismuth citrate (RBC)) and antimony (e.g. stibogluconate) have also been widely used for the treatment of gastrointestinal distress such as peptic ulcer and H. pylori infection and parasitic infection (Sb for Leishmania) for decades [8]. Proteins and enzymes have long been regarded as the targets of the metallodrugs although little is known about the detail targets. Using our initial work as a foundation, we will design and prepare immobilized metal affinity chromatography (IMAC) in combination with mass spectrometry to identify metal-binding proteins in microorganisms (e.g. Helicobacter pylori). This study will not only allow us to discover novel metal-binding proteins or metallodrug target(s), but also offer a general approach for the investigation of metabolism of metallodrugs, which eventually improve our understanding of mechanism of action of the metal-containing agents. We intend to achieve three separate but closely related objectives: (A) To design and prepare a series of metal-containing IMAC column (e.g., Bi3+, Sb5+, Cd2+ and Fe3+) for metalloproteome; (B) To identify metal-binding proteins and peptides by IMAC and mass spectrometry; (C) To discover metal-binding motifs/sites. (D) To further confirm these proteins by overexpression of selected proteins and examine their binding properties

List of Research Outputs

Chai Y., Yan S.C., Wong I.L.K., Chow L.M.C. and Sun H., Complexation of antimony (Sb^V) with guanosine 5'-monophosphate and guanosine 5'-diphospho-D-mannose: Formation of both mono- and bis-adducts , Inorganic Chemistry. 2005, 99: 2257-2263.

Chen R., So M.H., Che C.M. and Sun H., Controlled synthesis of high crystalline bismuth sulfide nanorods: using bisumth citrate as a precursor, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 4540-4545.

Chen R., So M.H., Yang J., Deng F., Che C.M. and Sun H., Fabrication of bismuth subcarbonate nanotube arrays from bismuth citrate, Chemical Communications. 2006, 2265-2267.

Fung K.L., Yan H., Ching Y.P., Ng I.O.L., Chung S.S.M., Sun H. and Ko B.C.B., Homodimerization of the deleted in liver cancer 2 (DLC2) is not mediated by the SAM domain, FEBS-IUBMB Conference, July 2005.

Fung Y.S., Zhang Y., Si S., Sun H. and Yao S.Z., DNA Piezoelectric Quartz Crystal Biosensors , In: (C.A. Grimes, E.C. Dickey and M.V. Pishko, eds), Encyclopedia of Sensors, First Edition. American Scientific Publishers, 2006, 2: 439-450.

Ge R., Watt R.M., Sun X., Tanner J.A., He Q., Huang J. and Sun H., Expression and characterization of a histidine-rich protein, Hpn: potential for Ni²⁺ storage in Helicobacter pylori, Biochemical Journal. 2006, 393: 285-293.

Li H., Fung K.L., Jin D., Chung S.S.M., Cing Y.P., Ng I.O.L., Sze K.H., Ko C.B. and Sun H., Solution structures and dynamics of the sterile of Motif (SAM) domain of the deleted in liver cancer 2 (DLC2): a monomeric structure with membrane-binding properties, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-17, p.33.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, 13th Symposium oc Chemistry Postgraduate Research In Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 17, 2006.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, Journal of Proteome Research. 2006, 5: 916-924.

Sun H., Guest Professor, Shenzhen University (School of Life Science). 2005.

Sun H., Invited lecture, - 4th National Conference on Chemical Biology and the International Symposium on the Interdisciplinary Science of Chemistry with Biology and Medicine, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China, October 9-12. 2005.

Sun H., Invited lecture, - 5th National Conference on Coordination Chemistry and 8th National Conference on Bioinorganic Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China, November 18-22. 2005.

Sun H., Invited lecture, 11th Asian Chemical Congress, Seoul, Korea, August 25-28. 2005.

Sun H., Outstanding Young Investigator Award (Type "B"), National Science Foundation of China (NSFC). 2005.

Sun H., Outstanding Young Researcher Award, the University of Hong Kong, The University of Hong Kong. 2005.

Sun H., Zhang Y., Si S., Zhu D. and Fung Y.S., Piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) with photochemically deposited nano-sized Ag particles for determining cyanide at trace levels in water, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 925-932.

Sun H. and Fung Y.S., Piezoelectric quartz crystal sensor using molecularly imprinted polymers as recognition coating for rapid analysis of pirimicarb residues, Abstract of 8^th Asian Conference on Analytical Science (Asianalysis VIII), Taipei, Taiwan, October 16-20, 2005. PG-12: 297.

Sun X., Ge R., Sun H., Chiu J. and He Q., Biochemical characterization of the lipoprotein MtsA in Mts/ABC responsible for iron transport in Streptococcus pyogenes, The 230th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, Washington DC, August 28-September 1, 2005.

Wang H., Zhang Q., Cai B., Li H., Sze K.H., Huang Z.X., Wu H.M. and Sun H., Solution structure and dynamics of human metallothionein-3 (MT-3), FEBS Letters. 2006, 580: 795-800.

Xue R., Wang S., Wang C.Y., Zhu T., Li F. and Sun H., HFIP-Induced Structures and Assemblies of the Peptides from the Transmembrane Domain 4 of Membrane Protein Nramp1, Biopolymers. Wiley, 2006, 84: 329-339.

Yang P.H., Gao H., Cai J., Chiu J., Sun H. and He Q., The stepwise process of chromium-induced DNA breakage: characterization by electrochemistry, atomic force microscopy, and DNA electrophoresis, Chemical Research in Toxicology. 2005, 18: 1563-1566.

Zhang Y., Fung Y.S., Sun H., Zhu D. and Yao S., Study of protein adsorption on polymer coatings surface by combining quartz crystal microbalance with electrochemical impedance methods, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 933-942.

Researcher : Sun H

List of Research Outputs

Chen R., So M.H., Che C.M. and Sun H., Controlled synthesis of high crystalline bismuth sulfide nanorods: using bisumth citrate as a precursor, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 4540-4545.

Chen R., So M.H., Yang J., Deng F., Che C.M. and Sun H., Fabrication of bismuth subcarbonate nanotube arrays from bismuth citrate, Chemical Communications. 2006, 2265-2267.

Sun H., Guest Professor, Shenzhen University (School of Life Science). 2005.

Sun H., Invited lecture, 11th Asian Chemical Congress, Seoul, Korea, August 25-28. 2005.

Sun H., Outstanding Young Investigator Award (Type "B"), National Science Foundation of China (NSFC). 2005.

Sun H., Outstanding Young Researcher Award, the University of Hong Kong, The University of Hong Kong. 2005.

Wang H., Zhang Q., Cai B., Li H., Sze K.H., Huang Z.X., Wu H.M. and Sun H., Solution structure and dynamics of human metallothionein-3 (MT-3), FEBS Letters. 2006, 580: 795-800.

Researcher : Sun H

List of Research Outputs

Chen R., So M.H., Che C.M. and Sun H., Controlled synthesis of high crystalline bismuth sulfide nanorods: using bisumth citrate as a precursor, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 4540-4545.

Chen R., So M.H., Yang J., Deng F., Che C.M. and Sun H., Fabrication of bismuth subcarbonate nanotube arrays from bismuth citrate, Chemical Communications. 2006, 2265-2267.

Sun H., Guest Professor, Shenzhen University (School of Life Science). 2005.

Sun H., Invited lecture, 11th Asian Chemical Congress, Seoul, Korea, August 25-28. 2005.

Sun H., Outstanding Young Investigator Award (Type "B"), National Science Foundation of China (NSFC). 2005.

Sun H., Outstanding Young Researcher Award, the University of Hong Kong, The University of Hong Kong. 2005.

Wang H., Zhang Q., Cai B., Li H., Sze K.H., Huang Z.X., Wu H.M. and Sun H., Solution structure and dynamics of human metallothionein-3 (MT-3), FEBS Letters. 2006, 580: 795-800.

Researcher : Sun RWY

List of Research Outputs

Li K.L.C., Sun R.W.Y., Kui C.F., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Anticancer cyclometalated [Au^III_m(C^N^C)_mL]ⁿ⁺compounds: Synthesis and cytotoxic properties , Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 5253-5266.

Lum C.T., Yang Z., Li H.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Fan S.T., Poon R.T.P., Lin M.C., Che C.M. and Kung H., Gold(III) compound is a novel chemocytotoxic agent for hepatocellular carcinoma, International Journal of Cancer. 2006, 118(6): 1527-1538.

Sun R.W.Y., Lum C.T., Lin M.C., Kung H.F. and Che C.M., Gold (III) compounds as novel cytotoxic agents for hepatocellular carcinoma, Shanghai - Hong Kong International Liver Congress 2006; Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2006, 21(Suppl.2): A93-A94.

Sun R.W.Y., Chen R., Chung P.Y., Ho C.M., Lin C.L. and Che C.M., Silver nanoparticles fabricated in hepes buffer exhibit cytoprotective activities toward HIV-1 infected cells , Chemical Communications. 2005, 5059-5061.

To Y.F., Sun R.W.Y., Tam P.K.H., Che C.M. and Liu C.L., Anticancer effect of gold (III) porphyrin in nasopharyngeal carcinoma., 97th Annual Meeting of American Association for Cancer Research, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 1-5 April 2006.

Wang Y., He Q., Sun R.W.Y., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Gold(III) porphyrin 1a induced apoptosis by mitochondrial death pathways related to reactive oxygen species , Cancer Research. 2005, 65: 11553-11564.

Wang Y., Sun R.W.Y., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Probing ruthenium - acetylide bonding interactions: synthesis, electrochemistry, and spectroscopic studies of acetylide-ruthenium complexes supported by tetradentate macrocyclic amine and diphosphine ligands , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 13997-14007.

Wong E.L.M., Sun R.W.Y., Chung P.Y., Lin C.L., Zhu N. and Che C.M., A mixed-valent ruthenium-Oxo Oxalato cluster Na₇[Ru₄(m₃-O)₄(C₂O₄)₆] with potent anti-HIV activities, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 4398-4399.

Wong S.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Chung P.Y., Lin C.L. and Che C.M., Physiologically stable vandadium (IV) porphyrins as a new class of Anti-HIV agents, Chemical Communications. 2005, 3544-3546.

Researcher : Sun X

List of Research Outputs

Ge R., Watt R.M., Sun X., Tanner J.A., He Q., Huang J. and Sun H., Expression and characterization of a histidine-rich protein, Hpn: potential for Ni²⁺ storage in Helicobacter pylori, Biochemical Journal. 2006, 393: 285-293.

Sun X., Ge R., Sun H., Chiu J. and He Q., Biochemical characterization of the lipoprotein MtsA in Mts/ABC responsible for iron transport in Streptococcus pyogenes, The 230th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, Washington DC, August 28-September 1, 2005.

Researcher : Sun X

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Sun Z

List of Research Outputs

Sun Z. and Fung Y.S., Flow injection analysis coupled with PQC/DNA Biosensor for assay of E.Coli based on detecting DNA products from PRC amplification , Abstract, 2nd International Meeting on Microsensors and Microsystems (IMm² 2006), Tainan, China, January 15-18, 2006. Poster No. 17.

Sun Z. and Yang D., Highly selective fluorescent probe for detection of peroxynitrite , The 231^st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30, 2006.

Sun Z. and Yang D., Highly selective fluroesecnt probe for detection of peroxynitrite , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Yang D., Wang H., Sun Z., Chung N.W. and Shen J., A highly selective fluorescent probe for the detection and imaging of peroxynitrite in living cells , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 6004-6005.

Researcher : Sy LK

Project Title:	Structural elucidation and biological study of polysaccharides isolated from traditional Chinese medicines
Investigator(s):	Sy LK, Che CM, Man RYK
Department:	Pharmacology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To study the sequence, branching and conformational structures of the polysaccharides isolated from Traditional Chinese Medicines.

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Sze KH

Project Title:	Development and application of NMR methods based on solvent exposed amides (SEA) experiments for proteins
Investigator(s):	Sze KH, Zhu G.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To resolve overlapping resonances in the NMR spectra of proteins; to map the protein-protein, protein-nucleic acid or protein-ligand interaction sites; to study unfolding/folding pathway of proteins.

Project Title:	Development and application of NMR methods based on solvent exposed amides (SEA) experiments for proteins
Investigator(s):	Sze KH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Structure and Function Studies of Human Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase C-Terminal Polypeptide (hTERTC27) - Structure determination of hTERTC27 by NMR spectroscopy
Investigator(s):	Sze KH, Lin MC
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2005
Completion Date:	05/2006

Abstract:

The human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is the catalytic subunit of telomerase holoenzyme as well as the rate-limiting component of the telomerase enzyme complex. By reverse transcribing the telomerase RNA component (hTR) to the telomeric DNA sequence, hTERT synthesizes and elongates the terminal telomeric DNA, thereby counteracting the cellular senescent program orchestrated by telomere shortening. Thus, hTERT activation is essential for cell immortalization, malignant transformation (Meyerson et al 1997; Sonoda et al 2001), and cancer cell survival (Hahn et al 1999; Zhang et al 1999) The hTERT is a 127-kDa protein with 1132 amino acid residues (Meyerson et al 1997), containing a hTR specific binding domain at its N-terminus (Beattie et al 2000; Lai et a; 2001) and a RT-domain at the central region (Meyerson et al 1997; Friedman et al. 1999). Both of these functional domains are required for the reverse transcriptase activity. hTERT also needs to be translocalized to the nucleus and targeted to the telomere ends to be functional. Nuclear translocation has been shown to be regulated by the interactions between the hTERT C terminus and the protein 14-3-3 (Seimiya et al., 2000). However, the mechanism for the telomere end targeting of hTERT is not understood.. We have constructed a polypeptide containing the C terminal 27 kDa hTERT (hTERTC27). We recently showed that hTERTC27 is capable of nuclear translocation and telomere-end targeting. Ectopic overexpression of this polypeptide in hTERT positive HeLa cells specifically causes telomere dysfunction and rapid chromosome end-fusion, resulting in cell apoptosis and senescence (Huang et al 2002). The phenotype is similar to that of the dominant negative mutant of the telomere-binding protein TRF2 (DN-TRF2). DN-TRF2 interferes with the binding of TRF2 to telomere and rapidly induces telomere dysfunction and cell growth inhibition without affecting the telomerase enzyme activity (Steensel et al 1998). Therefore, hTERTC27 may act by disrupting the normal function of the hTERT C-terminus, which may include binding to various components at the telomere end and maintaining the telomere structure. The objective of the proposed works is to understand the structure-function of hTERT C-terminus by determination of the three-dimensional structure of hTERTC27 using NMR spectroscopy. Our proposed works will address the following questions: (1) What is the structure of hTERTC27? (2) How does the structure of hTERTC27 related to the function of hTERT? We aim at identifying the functional motifs, elucidating the molecular targets and mechanisms for hTERTC27 induced telomere dysfunction.

Project Title:	Combined Computational and Experimental Developments for High-Throughput Determination of Protein Structures by NMR
Investigator(s):	Sze KH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Structural and functional studies of human XIAP-associated factor 1 (XAF1) by NMR Spectroscopy
Investigator(s):	Sze KH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	05/2006

Abstract:

Apoptosis, referring to the biological process of programmed cell death, plays an essential role in developmental and cellular homeostasis of mammalian cells (1). Dysfunction of the process leads to a number of human pathologies, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders (2-6). The molecular pathway of apoptosis is evolutionarily conserved and the initiation, execution, and regulation of apotosis pathway are governed by hundreds of genes. The process culminates in the activation of caspases cascade to degrade the cellular machinery (e.g. Chromosome) (7,8). Research in the past two decades has led to the identification of several caspases-inhibiting proteins. Deregulation of these proteins may confer apoptosis resistance and results in low sensitivity of cancer cell to therapeutic agents (1). The X-linked Inhibitor of Apoptosis (XIAP), belonging to the family of intrinsic inhibitor apoptosis protein (IAP), is a newly discovered key caspases-inhibiting protein (9). The XIAP was demonstrated to be an endogenous repressor, which blocks the activity of the caspases in the terminal part of the cascade in vitro (9). In turns, the caspases-inhibiting activity of the XIAP is negatively controlled by two XIAP-binding proteins, namely Smac/DIABLO (10-15) and XAF1 (XIAP-associated factor 1)(16). In contrast to Smac/DIABLO, the structural and biochemical basis of XAF1 remain to be determined. It was reported that XAF1, which antagonizes recombinant XIAP in vitro, normally reside in the nucleus of the cell. Overexpression of XAF1 was shown to trigger the redistribution of cytoplamic XIAP to the nucleus, leading to XIAP-suppression, caspases activation and apoptosis (9). On the other hands, the loss of endogenous XAF1, by utilizing the adenovirus infection of antisense XAF1 mRNA, was reported to enhance cellular resistance to apoptosis (16). It is believed that XAF1 was a putative tumor suppressor gene (17). XAF1 is ubiquitously expressed in normal tissue, but present at low level or undetectable levels in nucleus and cytoplasm of different cancer cell lines (18). It was recently showed that the aberrant reduction of XAF1 transcription, but not Smac/DIABLO, in gastric adenocarcinomas might be attributed to the hypermethylation of seven CpGs in the promoter region of XAF1 gene locus (17). A low concentration of cellular XAF1 transcription was also observed in human colorectal cancer (19). In addition to the tumor suppressing behavior, XAF1 was reported to enhance neuronal susceptibility toward degeneration in reperfusion injury after ischemia (20). Nevertheless, the pathophysiological mechanism of XAF1 is still not clear. XAF1 is a 37kDa nuclear protein, comprising of 317 amino acids and having two mRNA spicing variants (16). The domain architecture and structure of XAF1 is unknown. Sequencing analysis of the nuclear protein revealed the existence of TRAF zinc finger within H23-E99. Overexpression of the Zinc-finger portion blocked INF (Interferon)-dependent sensitization of A375 melanoma cell to the pro-apoptotic effect of TRAIL, which is a tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis inducing ligand(21). The domains responsible for XIAP binding and compartmental translocation are yet to be identified. The objectives of this research are: (I) Dissecting the functional domain architecture of full-length XAF1, identifying the domain (XBD) in XAF1 responsible for XIAP binding and the corresponding XIAP domain for XAF1 binding. (II) Determining the solution structure of XIAP-binding domain in XAF1 by biomolecular NMR spectroscopy. (III) Determining the solution structure of XIAP/XAF1 domains complex. We have carried out preliminary research on the proposed project including the different truncated GST-fusion XAF1 have been identified and subcloned into the pGEX-4T-1 vector. Bacterial expressions of different fragments have been tried in BL21 (DE3) host and the expression conditions have been worked out. The expression level of the fragments was as high as 10mg/L. This is suitable for structural studies with NMR spectroscopy, which requires large quantities of isotopic labelled protein samples. Reference 1. Danial NN, Korsmeyer SJ. 2004.Cell death: critical control points. Cell 116:205 .19 2. Green DR, Evan GI. 2002. A matter of life and death. Cancer Cell 1:19 .30 3. Hanahan D, Weinberg RA. 2000.The hallmarks of cancer. Cell 100:57 .70 4. Thompson CB.1995.Apoptosis in the pathogenesis and treatment of disease. Science 267:1456 –62 5. Vaux DL,Flavell RA.2000. Apoptosis genes and autoimmunity. Curr Opin.Immunol. 12:719-24 6. Yuan J, Yankner BA.2000.Apoptosis in the nervous system. Nature 407:802 .9 7. Riedl SJ, Shi Y. 2004. Molecular mechanisms of caspase regulation during apoptosis.Nat.Rev. Mol.Cell.Biol.5: 897-907 8. Thornberry NA, Lazebnik Y.1998.Caspases: enemies within. Science 281:1312 .16 9. Holcik M, Gibson H, Korneluk RG. 2001. XIAP: apoptotic brake and promising therapeutic target. Apoptosis.6: 253-61. 10. Du C, Fang M, Li Y, Li L, Wang X. 2000. Smac, a mitochondrial protein that promotes cytochrome c-dependent caspase activation by eliminating IAP inhibition. Cell. 102:33–42. 11. Verhagen AM, et al.. 2000.Identification of DIABLO, a mammalian protein that promotes apoptosis by binding to and antagonizing IAP proteins. Cell; 102:43–53. 12. Chai J, Du C, Wu JW, Kyin S, Wang X, Shi Y. 2000. Structural and biochemical basis of apoptotic activation by Smac/DIABLO. Nature. 406: 855–862. 13. Srinivasula SM, Datta P, Fan XJ, Fernandes-Alnemri T, Huang Z, Alnemri ES. 2000. Molecular determinants of the caspase-promoting activity of Smac/DIABLO and its role in the death receptor pathway. J Biol Chem. 275: 36152–36157. 14. Wu G, et al. Structural basis of IAP recognition by Smac/DIABLO. 2000. Nature. 408: 1008–1012. 15. Liu Z, et al. 2000.Structural basis for binding of Smac/DIABLO to the XIAP BIR3 domain. Nature. 408: 1004–1008. 16. Liston P, et al. 2001.Identification of XAF1 as an antagonist of XIAP anti-caspase activity. Nature Cell Biology. 3: 128–133. 17. Byun DS, Cho K, Ryu BK, Lee MG, Kang MJ, Kim HR, Chi SG. 2003. Hypermethylation of XIAP-associated factor 1, a putative tumor suppressor gene from the 17p13.2 locus, in human gastric adenocarcinomas. Cancer Res.63: 7068-75. 18. Fong WG, Liston P, Rajcan-Separovic E, St Jean M, Craig C, Korneluk RG. 2000. Expression and genetic analysis of XIAP-associated factor 1 (XAF1) in cancer cell lines. Genomics. 70: 113–122. 19. Ma TL, Ni PH, Zhong J, Tan JH, Qiao MM, Jiang SH.2005. Low expression of XIAP-associated factor 1 in human colorectal cancers. Chin J Dig Dis.6: 10-4. 20. Siegelin M, Touzani O, Toutain J, Liston P, Rami A.2005.Induction and redistribution of XAF1, a new antagonist of XIAP in the rat brain after transient focal ischemia. Neurobiol Dis.20: 509-18. 21. Leaman DW, Chawla-Sarkar M, Vyas K, Reheman M, Tamai K, Toji S, Borden EC. 2002.Identification of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis-associated factor-1 as an interferon-stimulated gene that augments TRAIL Apo2L-induced apoptosis. J Biol Chem. 277: 28504-11.

List of Research Outputs

Fung W.T., Sze K.H., Lee C.K.F. and Shaw P.C., Functional studies of the small subunit of EcoHK311 DNA methyltransferase, Biological Chemistry. 2006, 387(5): 507-513.

Guan X., Tse M.K., Yang Y., Sze K.H., Cheung K.K. and Wong K.B., Study of the structure and dynamics of a thermophilic acylphosphatase from Pyrococcus horikoshii by NMR spectroscopy, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005. PO-08, p.24.

Hui S.K., Chow H.F. and Sze K.H., NMR study of organogel - bis (L-phenylalanie)-based pyridine-2, 6-dicarboxyamide, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006. O-35.

Lee K.M., Chan S.B., Chu L.O., Zhu G., Sze K.H., Shaw P.C. and Wong K.B., Structure characterization of human ribosomal protein P2 by NMR spectroscopy , Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005. PO-13, p.29.

Li H., Fung K.L., Jin D., Chung S.S.M., Cing Y.P., Ng I.O.L., Sze K.H., Ko C.B. and Sun H., Solution structures and dynamics of the sterile of Motif (SAM) domain of the deleted in liver cancer 2 (DLC2): a monomeric structure with membrane-binding properties, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-17, p.33.

Sze K.H., Applications and developments of biological NMR, Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singaproe, Singparoe, December 7, 2005. 2005.

Sze K.H., Biomolecular NMR and their applications , Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Chinese Academy of Science,Shanghai, China, August 30. 2005.

Sze K.H., New developments in NMR and their application to macromolecules , Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Natural Products, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China, September 7, 2005. 2005.

Wang H., Zhang Q., Cai B., Li H., Sze K.H., Huang Z.X., Wu H.M. and Sun H., Solution structure and dynamics of human metallothionein-3 (MT-3), FEBS Letters. 2006, 580: 795-800.

Wong C.H., Chow H.F., Hui S.K. and Sze K.H., Generation-independent dimerization behavior of quadruple hydrogen-bond-containing oligoether dendrons, Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 1811-1814.

Wong C.M.Q., Sze K.H. and Ma C.Y., Structural determination of an antimicrobial peptide by circular dichroism and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic techniques, Institute of Food Technologists Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL, USA. June, 2006.

Wong C.W., Ma C.Y. and Sze K.H., Structure determination of an antimicrobial peptide derived from human lactoferricin by circular dichroism and nuclear magentic resonance spectroscopic techniques , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006. O-51.

Yang Y., Guan X., Tse M.K., Sze K.H. and Haynes R.K., Determination of solution structures of lolatins and tyrocidine-A by NMR spectroscopy , Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-30, p.46.

Researcher : Sze KL

List of Research Outputs

Sze K.L. and Fung Y.S., Hyphenated gas-phase electrophoretic mobility molecular analyzer with inductively coupled plasma-spectrometric detection for the determination of free and particle-bounded calcium in liquid milk products, Abstract of 8^th Asian Conference on Analytical Sciences (Asianalysis VIII), Taipei, Taiwan, October 16-20, 2005. PF-11: 262.

Researcher : Sze-To L

List of Research Outputs

Yeung W.F., Kwong H.K., Lau T.C., Gao S., Sze-To L. and Wong W.T., Cyano-bridged molecular squares: Synthesis and structures of [Ni(cyclen]₂[Pt(CN₄]₂^.6H₂O, [Ni(cyclen]₂[Ni(CN)₄]₂^.6H₂O and [Mn(cyclen)]₂[Ni(CN₄]₂^.6H₂O, Polyhedron. 2006, 25: 1256-1262.

Researcher : Tam KH

List of Research Outputs

Chan M.C.W., Kui C.F., Cole J.M., Mclntyre G.J., Matsui S., Zhu N. and Tam K.H., Neutron and X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic investigations of intramolecular [C-H^...F-C] contacts in post-metallocene polyolefin catalysts: modeling weak attractive polymer-ligand interactions, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 2607-2619.

Chan M.C.W., Tam K.H., Zhu N., Chiu P. and Matsui S., Synthesis, structures, and olefin polymerization characteristics of Group 4 [Zr{OAr)₂py}Cl₂(D)] (D = O-Donors, CI[HPR₃]) supported by tridentate Pyridine-2,6-bis (aryloxide) Ligands, Organometallics. 2006, 25: 785-792.

Researcher : Tam KH

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Tang WS

List of Research Outputs

Tang W.S., Lu X., Wong M.C. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, photophysics and binding studies of platinum(II) alkynyl terpyridine complexes with crown ether pendant. Potential luminescent sensors for metal ions, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 15: 2714-2720.

Researcher : Tao CH

Project Title:	Luminescent transition metal complexes with branched alkynyls
Investigator(s):	Tao CH, Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

The research of organic polymeric materials is undoubtedly one of the most active areas of research in chemistry, especially during the past decade, due to their intriguing physical properties, ease of fabrication and wide range of applications. The search for new advanced and multifunctional materials has boosted the development of copolymers or block copolymers which have enhanced properties. However, the solubility and processability of linear polymers usually decrease with increasing molecular weight and this has limited their applications. Dendrimers, which constitute a novel class of highly branched three-dimensional macromolecules, and branched molecules are currently attracting widespread interest in many areas of science and technology mainly due to their relatively high solubilities and better processabilities compared to the rod-like counterparts. A considerable number of organic two-dimensional and three-dimensional architectures have also been built using the chemistry of the alkynyl units using well-established reaction protocols. Transition metal systems possess interesting properties which are inaccessible with pure organic dendrimers or branched molecules. Thus, numerous surface-modified metallodendrimers have been reported in the last decade, in which their applications as catalysts and sensors were reported. Compared with the above mentioned metallodendrimers, the research on synthesis of sigma-bonded organometallic dendrimers with metal-carbon bonds is still less explored probably due to the lack of appropriate building blocks and difficulties in product isolation. In fact, the alkynyl group is known for its ability to interact with transition metal centers through pπ-dπ overlap and appears to be a promising candidate for the construction of carbon-rich metal-containing materials while its inherent rigidity would be beneficial in the preparation of luminescent materials. In this regard, a convenient and high yield synthetic protocol is needed for coupling highly luminescent transition metal centers with rigid phenylene ethynylene backbones. The proposed project would explore the possibility of acquiring luminescent materials with relatively high solubilities and good processabilities via different synthetic routes. Various platinum and rhenium complexes of branched alkynyls would be designed which, similar to organic dendrimers, could be synthesized via a divergent or convergent approach. The divergent synthesis of the branched alkynyl complexes would involve reactions between branched phenylene ethynylene alkynyl ligands and metal halide precursors. On the other hand, the convergent approach would adopt "metalloligand" coupling reactions between terminal alkynyls and aryl halides. It is envisioned that these branched multinuclear alkynyl complexes are highly luminescent and possess better solubility and processability when compared with their rod-like counterparts. Besides, the terminal positions of the alkynyl ligands can be selectively deprotected and may serve as ideal candidate for the synthesis of mixed-metal complexes. Further research on the study of energy transfer properties in these branched mixed-metal alkynyl complexes would yield directional energy transfer materials which mimics the energy transfer processes in photosynthesis.

List of Research Outputs

Yam V.W.W. and Tao C.H., Polyynes , Carbon-rich compounds -- From molecules to materials . Weinheim, Germany, Willy-VCH, 2006, 421-475.

Researcher : Tong HY

List of Research Outputs

Ko C.B., Tong H.Y. and Chung S.S.M., Identification of a novel nuclear export sequence of OREBP / TonEBP / NFAT5 that control cytoplasmic localization , 45th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Cell Biology, The Moscone Centre, San Fancisco, U.S.A., Dec 10-14, 2005.

Ko C.B., Tong H.Y., Guo J. and Chung S.S.M., Identification of novel nuclear export domains of transcription factor OREBP / TonEBP / NAFT5 , Annual Meeting of Experimental Biology 2006, San Francisco, CA, U.S.A., Apri. 1-5, 2006.

Researcher : Tong SM

Project Title:	High-valent iron porphyrins
Investigator(s):	Tong SM, Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To investigate if dioxoiron (VI) porphyrin complex participates in the biological cycles of oxygen activation.

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Toy PH

Project Title:	The development of polymer-based strategies for organic synthesis
Investigator(s):	Toy PH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2002
Completion Date:	11/2005

Abstract:

The project attempts to examine new polymers with improved performance and identify their properties that are responsible. Both the chemical structure and physical morphology of the polymers will be optimized. The study also develops new applications for polymer-assisted organic synthesis that combine the use of both insoluble and soluble polymers as carriers for reagents and compounds.

Project Title:	The development of tetrahydrofuran based polymers for polymer assisted organic synthesis
Investigator(s):	Toy PH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To synthesize and characterize novel cross-linked tetrahydrofuran based polymers using cationic, anionic and ring-opening metathesis polymerization strategies; to assess the utility of the new polymers in both solid-phase and solution-phase organic synthesis in order to study the optimum polymer structure and morphology in such applications.

Project Title:	The development of tetrahydrofuran based polymers for polymer assisted organic synthesis
Investigator(s):	Toy PH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Chiral Alcohol Catalyzed Asymmetric Oxidation Reactions
Investigator(s):	Toy PH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2005
Completion Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

Oxidation is one of the fundamental chemical reactions/processes in nature and much of modern organic and inorganic chemistry has been devoted to the development of new methods for the oxidation of organic compounds such as alkenes and sulfides. In this regard, processes that can perform this reaction efficiently in an asymmetric sense are highly valued. Yet more value is added if the process is environmentally friendly, since many such reactions use polluting metal catalysts or produce ecologically undesired by-products. The objective of this proposed project is to develop a novel approach to such non-polluting, asymmetric alkene and sulphide oxidation that uses only a chiral alcohol solvent or catalyst as the source of asymmetry and the only by-product of which is water.

Project Title:	Polymer-Supported Phosphines and Arsines as Ligands and Organic Catalysts
Investigator(s):	Toy PH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Organocatalytic Mitsunobu Reactions
Investigator(s):	Toy PH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

The objective of the proposed project is to develop catalytic versions of the Mitsunobu reaction. The Mitsunobu reaction is a powerful tool in organic synthesis that is used to make covalent bonds between carbon atoms at atoms such as oxygen, nitrogen and even other carbon atoms. Unfortunately Mitsunobu reactions currently suffer from the fact that they require the use of large amounts of 2 chemical reagents that are often difficult to remove from the reaction mixtures at the end of the process. Additionally, the by-products from these chemical reagents can also be difficult to separate from the desired reaction products. Thus, there is much room for improvement to be made in simplifying Mitsunobu reactions and reducing the reagents necessary to carry them out by developing catalytic versions.

List of Research Outputs

He S., Yan J., Shen R., Zhao S. and Toy P.H., Non-cross-linked Polystyrene-supported triphenylphosphine microencapsulated palladium: An efficient and recyclable catalyst for Suzuki-miyaura reactions, Synlett. 2006, 563-566.

He S., Zhang C., Ng K.W. and Toy P.H., Polystyrene-supported Triphenylarsines: Useful ligands in palladium-catalyzed aryl halide homocoupling reactions and a catalyst for alkene epoxidation using hydrogen peroxide , Tetrahedron. 2005, 61: 12053-12057.

Kan T.W. and Toy P.H., Sulfur-and selenium-based linkers in polymer-supported organic synthesis, Journal of Sulfur Chemistry . 2005, 26: 509-540.

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Du Y., Kan T.W., Toy P.H. and Phillips D.L., Ultrafast time-resolved transient absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopy study of the photodeprotection and rearrangement reactions of p-hydroxyphenacyl caged phosphates , Journal of the American Chemical Society . 2006, 128: 2558-2570.

Teng W.D., Huang R., Kwong K.W., Shi M. and Toy P.H., Influence of michael acceptor stereochemistry on intramolecular morita-baylis-hillman reactions, Journal of Organic Chemistry . 2006, 71: 368-371.

Toy P.H., Development of tools and techniques for high-throughput organic synthesis , Pacifichem, Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., 15 December to 20 December, 2005.

Toy P.H., Optimization of polystyrene-supported triphenylphosphine catalysts for Aza-morita-baylis-hillman reactions, American Chemical Society National Meeting, Washington, D.C., U.S.A., 28 August to 1 September, 2005.

Toy P.H. and Shi M., Polymer-support reagents: Increasingly important tools for organic syntheis, Tetrahedron. 2005, 61: 12025.

Toy P.H., Polymer-supported arsines and phosphines and their use in palladium-catalyzed reactions, Handai Nanoscience and Nanotechnology International Symposium, Osaka, Japan, 30 January to 1 February, 2006.

Toy P.H., Recent Advances In The Development Of Polystyrene-supported Phosphines , IUPAC International Symposium on Fine Chemistry and Functional Polymers, Shanghai, China, 17 October to 19 October, 2005.

Zhao L.J., Kwong K.W., Shi M., Toy P.H. and Toy P.H., Optimization of polystyrene-supported triphenylphosphine catalysts for Aza-morita-baylis-hillman, Tetrahedron. 2005, 61: 12026-12032.

Researcher : Tsang KY

List of Research Outputs

Tsang K.Y., Lee T.C., Ren J., Chan G.K.Y., Wang H.Z. and Wang H., Platinum tungsten oxide (Pt-WO₃) nanoparticles: their preparation in glycol and electrocatalytic prperties , Journal of Experimental Nanoscience . 2006, 1: 113-123.

Researcher : Tse MC

List of Research Outputs

Phillips D.L., Che C.M., Leung K.H., Mao Z. and Tse M.C., A Comparative Study on Metal-metal Interaction in Binuclear Two- and Three-coordinated d¹⁰ -metal Complexes Spectroscopic Investigation of M(I)-M(I) Interaction in the ¹[ds*ps] Excited State of [M₂(dcpm)₂]²⁺ (dcpm = bis(dicyclohexylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) and [M₂(dmpm)₃]²⁺ (dmpm = bis(dimethylphosphino)methane) (M = Au, Ag, Cu) Complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. 2005, 249: 1476-1490.

Researcher : Tse MK

List of Research Outputs

Guan X., Tse M.K., Yang Y., Sze K.H., Cheung K.K. and Wong K.B., Study of the structure and dynamics of a thermophilic acylphosphatase from Pyrococcus horikoshii by NMR spectroscopy, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005. PO-08, p.24.

Yang Y., Guan X., Tse M.K., Sze K.H. and Haynes R.K., Determination of solution structures of lolatins and tyrocidine-A by NMR spectroscopy , Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-30, p.46.

Researcher : Tsui HWM

List of Research Outputs

Che C.M., Zhang J., Zhang R., Huang J.S., Lai T.S., Tsui H.W.M., Zhou X.G., Zhou Z.Y., Zhu N. and Chang C.K., Hydrocarbon oxidation by b-Halogenated dioxoruthenium (VI) porphyrin camplexes: effect of reduction potential (Ru^VI/V) and C-H bond-dissociation energy on rate constants, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 7040-7053.

Researcher : Tsui WM

List of Research Outputs

Leung K.Y., Tsui W.M., Huang J.S., Che C.M., Liang J. and Zhu N., Imido Transfer from Bis(imido)ruthenium(VI) Porphyrins to Hydrocarbons: Effect of Imido Substituents, C-H Bond Dissociation Energies, and RuVI/V Reduction Potentials, Journal of the American Chemical Society. Columbus, USA, American Chemical Society, 2005, 127: 16629-16640.

Researcher : Vellaisamy ALR

Project Title:	DNA based molecular transistor devices
Investigator(s):	Vellaisamy ALR
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

DNA (Deoxyribo Nucleic Acid) the blueprint of life, has taken centre stage in biological research during the past few decades. DNA is the best nanowire in existence, and it self-assembles, self-replicates and can adopt various states of conformations. Of these, the most important property of DNA for a biomolecular engineer is its ability to self-assemble, which makes it possible to produce nanostructures with a precision that is not achievable with classical silicon-based technologies. Fink & Schonenberger were the first to measure current flow through DNA using a modified low-energy electron point-source microscope. Kasumov et al. reported that DNA also behaves like a proximity-induced superconductor, using λ-DNA of 16 µm to connect two rhenium carbon electrodes on a mica substrate. Aich and co-workers showed that DNA with zinc atoms incorporated between its bases also acts as a conductor. Molecular lithography has already been carried out using the RecA protein, which further increases the potential of using DNA for the chemical ‘growth’ of electronic parts. The electrical conduction through poly(dA)-poly(dT) and poly(dG)-poly(dC) DNA molecules has been reported and it was found that poly(dA)-poly(dT) behaves as an n-type semiconductor and poly(dG)-poly(dC) behaves as a p-type semiconductor. Here, for the first time we want to demonstrate a DNA ambipolar field effect transistor which can transport both electrons and holes, having genomic DNA as active material, with pronounced ambipolar current characteristics. This device gives a new insight on DNA based electronic devices for future applications.

List of Research Outputs

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors , Proceeding of SPIE. 2005, 5940: 5940IL.1401L.7.

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors, In: The SPIE society, Proceedings of the SPIE International Society for Opical Engineering. 2005, 5490: 54901L.

Xu Z., Liu J.D., Vellaisamy A.L.R., Ou Y. and Liao D.W., Catalyic synthesis of carbon nanotubes and carbon spheres using Kaolin supported catalyst , Materials Science and Engineering B . 2005, 123: 102-106.

Researcher : Wang H

List of Research Outputs

Wang H., Zhang Q., Cai B., Li H., Sze K.H., Huang Z.X., Wu H.M. and Sun H., Solution structure and dynamics of human metallothionein-3 (MT-3), FEBS Letters. 2006, 580: 795-800.

Yang D., Wang H., Sun Z., Chung N.W. and Shen J., A highly selective fluorescent probe for the detection and imaging of peroxynitrite in living cells , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 6004-6005.

Yao J., Wang H., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Incorporating organic polymer into silica walls: A novel strategy for synthesis of templated mesoporous silica with tunable pore structure, Microporous and Mesoporous Materials. 2005, 82: 183-189.

Yao J., Wang H., Liu J., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Preparation of colloidal microporous carbon spheres from furfuryl alcohol, Carbon. 2005, 43: 1709-1715.

Researcher : Wang H

List of Research Outputs

Wang H., Zhang Q., Cai B., Li H., Sze K.H., Huang Z.X., Wu H.M. and Sun H., Solution structure and dynamics of human metallothionein-3 (MT-3), FEBS Letters. 2006, 580: 795-800.

Yao J., Wang H., Liu J., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Preparation of colloidal microporous carbon spheres from furfuryl alcohol, Carbon. 2005, 43: 1709-1715.

Researcher : Wang X

List of Research Outputs

Shi S., Xu S.J., Wang X. and Chen G., Theoretical absorption spectra of silicon carbide nanocrystals, Thin Solid Films. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2006, 495: 404-406.

Wang X., Li M., Wang J., Yeung C.M., Zhang H., Kung H., Jiang B. and Lin M.C., The BH3-only protein, PUMA, is involved in oxaliplatin-induced apoptosis in colon cancer cells, Biochemical Pharmacology. 2006, 71(11): 1540-1550.

Researcher : Wang X

List of Research Outputs

Shi S., Xu S.J., Wang X. and Chen G., Theoretical absorption spectra of silicon carbide nanocrystals, Thin Solid Films. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2006, 495: 404-406.

Researcher : Wang Y

List of Research Outputs

Wang Y., Cheng S., Chan G.K.Y. and Li X.Y., Electrolytic generation of ozone on antimony - and nickel-doped tin oxide electrode , Journal of the Electrochemical Society . 2005, 152: D197-D200.

Wang Y., Exploring action mechanisms of chemotherapeutic agents in human cancer cell lnes by biochemical and proteomic approaches (PhD Thesis). 2006.

Wang Y., He Q., Sun R.W.Y., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Gold(III) porphyrin 1a induced apoptosis by mitochondrial death pathways related to reactive oxygen species , Cancer Research. 2005, 65: 11553-11564.

Wang Y., Sun R.W.Y., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Probing ruthenium - acetylide bonding interactions: synthesis, electrochemistry, and spectroscopic studies of acetylide-ruthenium complexes supported by tetradentate macrocyclic amine and diphosphine ligands , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 13997-14007.

Wang Y., He Q., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Proteomic Characterization of the Cytotoxic Mechanism of Gold(III) Porphyrin 1a, an Potential Anticancer Drug, Proteomics. 2006, 6: 131-142.

Wang Y., Cheung Y.H., Yang Z., Chiu J., Che C.M. and He Q., Proteomic approach to study the cytotoxicity of dioscin (saponin), Proteomics. 2006, 6: 2422-2432.

Wang Y., Cheng S. and Chan G.K.Y., Synthesis of ozone from air via a polymer-electrolyte-membrane cell with a doped tin oxide anode , Green Chemistry. 2006, 8: 568-572.

Researcher : Wang Y

List of Research Outputs

Wang Y., Cheng S., Chan G.K.Y. and Li X.Y., Electrolytic generation of ozone on antimony - and nickel-doped tin oxide electrode , Journal of the Electrochemical Society . 2005, 152: D197-D200.

Wang Y., Exploring action mechanisms of chemotherapeutic agents in human cancer cell lnes by biochemical and proteomic approaches (PhD Thesis). 2006.

Wang Y., He Q., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Proteomic Characterization of the Cytotoxic Mechanism of Gold(III) Porphyrin 1a, an Potential Anticancer Drug, Proteomics. 2006, 6: 131-142.

Wang Y., Cheung Y.H., Yang Z., Chiu J., Che C.M. and He Q., Proteomic approach to study the cytotoxicity of dioscin (saponin), Proteomics. 2006, 6: 2422-2432.

Wang Y., Cheng S. and Chan G.K.Y., Synthesis of ozone from air via a polymer-electrolyte-membrane cell with a doped tin oxide anode , Green Chemistry. 2006, 8: 568-572.

Researcher : Wang Y

List of Research Outputs

Wang Y., Cheng S., Chan G.K.Y. and Li X.Y., Electrolytic generation of ozone on antimony - and nickel-doped tin oxide electrode , Journal of the Electrochemical Society . 2005, 152: D197-D200.

Wang Y., Exploring action mechanisms of chemotherapeutic agents in human cancer cell lnes by biochemical and proteomic approaches (PhD Thesis). 2006.

Wang Y., He Q., Che C.M. and Chiu J., Proteomic Characterization of the Cytotoxic Mechanism of Gold(III) Porphyrin 1a, an Potential Anticancer Drug, Proteomics. 2006, 6: 131-142.

Wang Y., Cheung Y.H., Yang Z., Chiu J., Che C.M. and He Q., Proteomic approach to study the cytotoxicity of dioscin (saponin), Proteomics. 2006, 6: 2422-2432.

Wang Y., Cheng S. and Chan G.K.Y., Synthesis of ozone from air via a polymer-electrolyte-membrane cell with a doped tin oxide anode , Green Chemistry. 2006, 8: 568-572.

Researcher : Watt RM

Project Title:	New Chemical Proteomics Methods For Selective Protein Capture And Identification
Investigator(s):	Watt RM, Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

Chemical proteomics (sometimes referred to as chemistry-based functional proteomics) is an extremely new and exciting area within the chemical biology field. It is broadly defined as being the integration of protein biochemistry and organic chemistry to study protein function on a genome wide scale. The main aims of chemical proteomics are to directly identify, quantify and characterize the ultimate products of genes, i.e. proteins: the bio-molecules that are the main effectors of activity within the cell. This is essential for a true and intimate understanding of cellular biology and function - one that cannot be gleamed solely from genetic or transcription-based analyses. Thus far, most of the research in chemical proteomics has centered on the design and synthesis of small chemical molecules that covalently label target proteins, enabling them to be subsequently identified and/or purified. These chemical probes are designed in such a way as to selectively modify certain classes of proteins, based upon mechanistic similarities (e.g. a shared active-site topography) or due to the nature or arrangement of their component amino acid residues. Aspects of this technology are related to two approaches commonly used in medicinal chemistry, for the identification of possible protein targets of drugs or other bio-molecules within the cell. In the first of these approaches, the drug (or an analogue of it) is linked to a resin or bead, which is used to capture interacting protein species from a cell-free extract. These are subsequently identified by mass spectrometry, protein sequencing or antibody-based methods. In the second approach, a radio- or fluorescently- labeled analogue of the drug or enzyme substrate is used to covalently modify the target protein, which is subsequently purified and identified. Thomas Kodadek (University of Texas Southwest Medical Center), Benjamin Cravatt (Scripps Institute, Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology) and Matthew Bogyo (Celera Genomics and Stanford University) have conducted some innovative research in this field, developing a number of small chemical affinity probes to target classes of proteins that include proteases, hydrolases and phosphatases. They have outlined two main approaches: a) activity-based probes, and b) affinity-based probes. Activity-based chemical probes may be thought of as being analogous to mechanism-based or suicide inhibitors, in that they irreversibly label proteins directly as a result of their catalytic activities. Affinity-based probes may be thought of as being more general protein labeling agents, not directly linked to protein activity. These reagents do not necessarily target active sites residues, but still bind tightly to specific families of proteins, covalently modifying them. In addition, there are non-specific protein labeling reagents that chemically modify a broad range of proteins, usually targeting specific residues e.g. cysteine thiols or lysine amines. In this proposal, I will take a slightly different approach. I will synthesize a novel set of chemical affinity probes to target families of essential and ubiquitous metabolic and biosynthetic proteins/enzymes. The chemical affinity probes will contain a 'reactive' moiety that will be the main determinant for the types of proteins targeted, as well as a component that will enable subsequent affinity-based protein purification or localization on 2D gels by fluorimetry. Two main types of affinity probes will be synthesized: Highly selective probes targeting functionally-related protein families Less functionally-selective probes, targeting a broader range of proteins Structurally simple reactive homologues of intermediates in common biosynthetic pathways will be used as components of the probes with a more general selectivity. The rationale behind this being that many of these intermediates are shared between different pathways (which are generally highly conserved between organisms), and they form the structural basis of numerous bioactive compounds. Choosing these types of compound maximizes the likelihood of finding chemical affinity probes of broad applicability. These chemical molecules will be designed to bind irreversibly to families of proteins within cells, in a cell or tissue extract (e.g. mouse liver extract, bacterial cell lysate, etc.) or in a biological fluid sample (e.g. plasma, plant sap, etc.). I will focus on (P450-type) oxidases; intermediates of fatty-acid and polyketide biosynthesis; amino acid and small-molecule biosynthesis and metabolism. Established mechanism-based enzyme inactivators will be used along with other simple drug and biosynthetic compound analogues. Synthetic strategies will be kept deliberately straightforward, maximizing the time spent on optimizing the protein labeling chemistry and experimental conditions, etc. I will consciously use compounds that will be relatively non-specific in nature to maximize the potential for serendipitous discovery.

List of Research Outputs

Ge R., Watt R.M., Sun X., Tanner J.A., He Q., Huang J. and Sun H., Expression and characterization of a histidine-rich protein, Hpn: potential for Ni²⁺ storage in Helicobacter pylori, Biochemical Journal. 2006, 393: 285-293.

Researcher : Wong ELM

List of Research Outputs

Wong E.L.M., Sun R.W.Y., Chung P.Y., Lin C.L., Zhu N. and Che C.M., A mixed-valent ruthenium-Oxo Oxalato cluster Na₇[Ru₄(m₃-O)₄(C₂O₄)₆] with potent anti-HIV activities, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 4398-4399.

Wong E.L.M., Fang G.S., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Highly cytotoxic iron(II) complexes with pentadentate pyridyl ligands as a new class of anti-tumor agents, Chemical Communications. 2005, 4578-4580.

Researcher : Wong HL

List of Research Outputs

Chan W.K., Hui C.S., Man K.K.Y., Cheng K.W., Wong H.L., Zhu N. and Djurisic A., Synthesis and photosensitizing properties of conjugated polymers that contain chlorotricarbonyl bis(phenylimino)acenaphthene rhenium(I) complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 249: 1351-1359.

Man K.K.Y., Wong H.L., Chan W.K., Djurisic A., Beach E. and Rozeveld S., Use of a ruthenium-containing conjugated polymer as a photosensitizer in photovoltaic devices fabricated by a layer-by-layer deposition process, Langmuir. American Chemical Society, 2006, 22: 3368-3375.

Researcher : Wong JKY

Project Title:	Luminescent benzylic amide macrocycle-based metal complexes with potential sensing capabilities
Investigator(s):	Wong JKY, Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To synthesise macrocycle-containing metal complexes; to add guest and test the benzylic amide macrocycle-based metal complexes as luminescent sensors.

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Wong KL

List of Research Outputs

Wong K.L., Law G.L., Yang Y. and Wong W.T., A highly porous luminescent terbium - Organic framework for reversible anion sensing , Advanced Materials . 2006, 18: 1051-1054.

Researcher : Wong KW

List of Research Outputs

Liu Y., Wong K.W., Ko C.B., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Synthesis and cytotoxicity studies of arternisinin derivatives containing lipophilic alkyl carbon chains , The 230^thAmerican Society National Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 28 August 2005 - 1 September 2005.

Wong K.W., Chiu P., Chung S.S.M., Chow L.M., Zhao Y.Z., Yang B. and Ko C.B., Pseudolaric Acid B, a novel microtubule-destabilizing agent that circumvents multi-drug resistance phenotype and exhibits antitumor activity in vivo., Clinical Cancer Research. 2005, 11: 6002-11.

Researcher : Wong LH

List of Research Outputs

Wong L.H., Dynamics of double-walled carbon nanotube oscillators (PhD Thesis). 2006.

Wong L.H., Zhao Y., Chen G. and Chwang A.T.Y., Grooving the carbon nanotube oscillators, Applied Physics Letters. 2006, 88: 183107-1 to 183107-3.

Zhao Y., Ma C.C., Wong L.H., Chen G., Xu Z.P., Zheng Q.S., Jiang Q. and Chwang A.T.Y., Energy Exchanges in Carbon Nanotube Oscillators, Nanotechnology. UK, Institute of Physics Publishing, 2006, 17: 1032-1035.

Researcher : Wong LME

List of Research Outputs

Wong L.M.E., Iron and ruthenium complexes with nitrogen and oxygen donor ligands for anti-cancer and anti-viral studies (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Researcher : Wong MC

Project Title:	Design and Synthesis of Luminescent Organoplatinum(II) Terpyridyl Complexes with Donor and/or Acceptor Pendants
Investigator(s):	Wong MC
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

The study of transition metal σ-bonded alkynyl complexes has grown rapidly due to their technological potentials that may differ from those of conventional organic counterparts. Although there are numerous reports on the synthesis, structure and bonding, and studies of electronic communication between metal centres through the π-conjugated oligo-alkynyl bridges by electrochemical techniques, relatively less attention was focused on the exploration and exploitation of their spectroscopic properties, such as their electronic absorption and luminescence behaviours. By introduction of the linear alkynyl group with the unique properties of having good σ-donor, π-acceptor and π-donor abilities into luminescent transition metal complexes, fine-tuning and perturbation of emission behaviours, in the sense of energy, emission intensity and lifetime could be envisaged. There has been a growing interest in the study of photoinduced charge separation and photoinduced electron and/or energy transfer processes in a multicomponent system, [A]-[C]-[D], consisting of a photoactive centre (C), a donor (D) and an acceptor (A), due to their potential applications in molecular electronics, solar cells (artificial photosynthesis) and luminescence chemosensors. In such system, the complex usually displays an intense absorption band attributed to the charge transfer (CT) transition. Moreover, a charge separated species, [A-]-[C]-[D+], could be generated upon absorption of a photon followed by a photoinduced electron transfer process. The synthesis of these molecules for photoinduced charge separation is often challenging because of the multistep procedures that are involved in their construction and purification. The use of organic molecules as fluorescent chemosensors have also been well-developed, however, the advantages over them, such as long luminescence lifetime, lower excitation wavelength, low interference level and higher stability, have led to a great interest in the utilization of transition metal complexes as luminescence chemosensor. Apart from ruthenium(II) and rhenium(I) polypyridyl complexes with triplet dπ(M)→π*(polypyridyl) metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) excited states which show rich photophysical behaviour, the platinum(II) terpyridyl complexes, [Pt(trpy)L]n+ (n = 1 or 2; trpy = terpyridyl ligand; L = anionic or neutral ligand), have also been extensively studied and shown to exhibit rich luminescence attributed to triplet MLCT excited state. In order to improve the luminescence behaviours, such as the enhancement of luminescence quantum yields and elongation of excited state lifetimes, destabilization of the triplet d-d excited state and/or stabilization of the triplet MLCT state are anticipated to serve this purpose. The first series of platinum(II) terpyridyl alkynyl complexes, [Pt(trpy)(C≡CR)]X, have been reported by Yam et al through the incorporation of alkynyl moieties into the platinum(II) terpyridyl system. Unlike the chloro- counterpart, [Pt(trpy)Cl]X, these complexes were found to exhibit luminescence even in the fluid solution at room temperature, demonstrating the importance of introducing the strongly σ-donating alkynyl in enriching their luminescence properties. Another strategy for the improvement of the luminescence properties of platinum(II) terpyridyl systems is to modify the substituents on the terpyridine to bring about: (i) the stabilization of the luminescent triplet MLCT state or (ii) incorporation of intra-ligand character into the excited state. By the combination of the substituent effects on the terpyridine ligand and the incorporation of alkynyl moiety into platinum(II) terpyridyl system, it is envisaged that modification of the terpyridyl and alkynyl moiety would perturb the triplet MLCT excited state. In view of this, togethr with their high stability and straightforward synthetic accessibility, platinum(II) terpyridyl alkynyl complexes would be an ideal candidate for the construction of multicomponent system, [A]-[C]-[D], for the study of the charge separation and the platinum(II) metal centre can act as the component [C] mediating the electron and/or energy transfer processses, while the other components [A] and [D] could be the terpyridyl or alkynyl ligands. Thus an objective of this project is to design and synthesize different terpyridyl chelator and alkynyl ligands with various electron-donating/withdrawing substituents for the modification of their π- and π*-energy levels, and to coordinate them to the platinum(II) metal centre to form the corresponding mononuclear platinum(II) terpyridyl alkynyl complexes. Their electronic absorption, luminescence as well as electrochemical properties would be studied. By a suitable choice of various donor and acceptor groups on the terpyridyl and alkynyl ligands of such platinum(II) complexes, such as a donor group on the alkynyl ligand and an acceptor group on the terpyridyl chelator, charge transfer from such an donor-acceptor system as well as electron and/or energy transfer processes with the involvment of the platinum(II) metal centre and charge separation are anticipated. Since the electron richness of the amino group is readily varied upon protonation or reaction of other reactive species, the electronic absorption as well as luminescence behaviour of such donor-acceptor system would be perturbed. In light of this concept, the proposed mononuclear platinum(II) terpyridyl alkynyl complexes with an amino donor group could also be utilized as luminescence chemosensors.

List of Research Outputs

Lam C.F., Yam V.W.W., Wong M.C., Cheng C.C. and Zhu N., Synthesis and characterization of luminescent rhenium(I) -- platinum(II) polypyridine bichromophoric alkynyl-bridged molecular rods, Organometallics. 2005, 24: 4298-4305.

Tang W.S., Lu X., Wong M.C. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, photophysics and binding studies of platinum(II) alkynyl terpyridine complexes with crown ether pendant. Potential luminescent sensors for metal ions, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 15: 2714-2720.

Yam V.W.W. and Wong M.C., Luminescent molecular rods - transition metal alkynyl complexes, Topics in Current Chemistry. Springer, 2005, 257: 1-32.

Yam V.W.W., Chan H.Y., Wong M.C. and Zhu N., Luminescent platinum(II) terpyridyl complexes: effect of counter ions on solvent-induced aggregation and color changes, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 4535-4543.

Researcher : Wong MK

List of Research Outputs

Liu Y., Wong K.W., Ko C.B., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Synthesis and cytotoxicity studies of arternisinin derivatives containing lipophilic alkyl carbon chains , The 230^thAmerican Society National Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 28 August 2005 - 1 September 2005.

Lo K.Y., Liu Y., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Gold (III) salen complex-catalyzed synthesis of propargylamines via a theree-component coupling reaction , Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 1529-1532.

Wong M.K., Wong M.K., Chan T.K., Chan W.Y., Chan W.K., Vrijmoed L.L.P., O'toole D.K. and Che C.M., Dioxiranes generated in situ form pyruvates and oxone as environmentally freindly oxidizing agents for disinfection , Environmental Science & Technology . 2006, 40: 625-630.

Wong M.K., Chan W.K. and Che C.M., Sterically bulky metalloporphrin - catalyzed diastereoselective epoxidation of allyl-substituted alkenes , The 230^thAmerica Chemical Society National Meeting, Washington, DC, U.S.A., 28 August, 2005 - 1 September, 2005.

Xu H.W., Li G.Y., Wong M.K. and Che C.M., Asymmetric synthesis of multifunctionalized pyrrolines by a ruthenium porphyrin-catalyzed three-component coupling reaction , Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5349-5352.

Researcher : Wong SY

List of Research Outputs

Wong S.Y., Sun R.W.Y., Chung P.Y., Lin C.L. and Che C.M., Physiologically stable vandadium (IV) porphyrins as a new class of Anti-HIV agents, Chemical Communications. 2005, 3544-3546.

Researcher : Wong WT

Project Title:	Relaxometric and stability studies of binuclear gadolinium complexes of cyclic polyaminocarboxylate ligands
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002
Completion Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

This project aims at developing new binuclear gadolinium (Gd) complexes with high water proton relaxivity, good thermodynamic stability, and high in vivo specificity.

Project Title:	Coordination polymers of transition metals and lanthanide metals
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To establish new synthetic routes to metal coordination polymers; to investigate the 3-D structures of these new metal containing polymers; to study the small molecule inclusion properties of these materials.

Project Title:	High nuclearity mixed-metal clusters and bimetallic nanoparticles of palladium and osmium
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2003
Completion Date:	11/2006

Abstract:

To establish new synthetic routes to high nuclearity palladium and osmium carbonyl clusters; to determine their physical and chemical properties; to develop methods for the preparing of bimetallic nanoparticles on solid supports from these metal cluster precursors; to examine the potential applications of the bimetallic nanoparticles in catalysis.

Project Title:	High nuclearity mixed-metal clusters and bimetallic nanoparticles of palladium and osmium
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	12/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Relaxometric and stability studies of binuclear gadolinium complexes of cyclic polyaminocarboxylate ligands
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Central Allocation Vote - General Award
Start Date:	03/2004

Abstract:

This project aims at developing new binuclear gadolinium (Gd) complexes with high water proton relaxivity, good thermodynamic stability, and high in vivo specificity.

Project Title:	Gadolinium Complexes of Functionalised Tetraazacyclodedecane Ligands: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast agents
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To design and prepare new gadolinium (Gd) complexes containing functionalised tetraazacyclodedecane (cyclen) ligands; to study their structures in both the solid-state and in solution; to investigate the relaxivity and thermodynamic stability of these new Gd complexes in water; to carry out in vivo magnetic resonance imaging using these Gd complexes on rats; to evaluate the potential applications of these new complexes as contrast enhancing agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Project Title:	Synthesis and properties of lanthanide polyamido complexes
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To establish new synthetic methods to lanthanide complexes containing amido ligands; to characterize these new compounds by spectroscopic and crystallographic methods; to investigate the chemical and photochemical properties of these new materials.

Project Title:	Gadolinium Complexes of Functionalised Tetraazacyclodedecane Ligands: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Contrast agents
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Novel gadolinium bis(amide)tricarboxylate complexes as contrast agents in hepatobiliary magnetic resonance imaging
Investigator(s):	Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Novel gadolinium bis(amide)tricarboxylate complexes as contrast agents in hepatobiliary magnetic resonance imaging
Investigator(s):	Wong WT, Khong PL, Botta M
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	07/2005

Abstract:

To design and prepare new types of gadolinium (Gd) complexes containing functionalised bis(amide)tricarboxylate ligands; to investigate the relaxivity and thermodynamic stability of these new Gd complexes in water; to study the toxicity of these metal complexes; to evaluate the potential of using these Gd complexes as liver specific contrast agents in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

List of Research Outputs

Bera M., Aromí G., Wong W.T. and Ray D., Structure and properties of a new double-stranded tetranuclear [Cu^II₂]₂helicate , Chemical Communications. 2006, 671-673.

Chan C., Chan W.K., Law H.K.W., Wong W.T., Koo M.W.L., Lau A.S.Y., Lau Y.L. and Chan G.C.F., Ganoderma lucidum mycelium extract can enhance maturation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells, 37^th Annual Conference of The International Society of Paediatric Oncology SIOP 2005, Vancouver, Canada, 21-24 September 2005 (Abstract in Pediatric Blood & Cancer). 2005, 45(4): 577.

Chan W.K., Lam T.W., Law H.K.W., Wong W.T., Koo M.W.L., Lau A.S.Y., Lau Y.L. and Chan G.C.F., Ganoderma lucidum mycelium and spore extracts as natural adjuvants for immunotherapy, The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. 2005, 11(6): 1047-1057.

Lau P.K.J. and Wong W.T., Synthesis and structural characterization of a series of high-hydride content osmium-rhodium carbonyl complexes by the hydrogenation of arene-coordinated clusters, Dalton Transactions. 2005, 2005: 2579-2587.

Li C., Li Y.X., Law G.L., Man K., Wong W.T. and Lei H., Fast water-exchange Gd³⁺-(DO3A-like) complex functionalized with aza-15-crown-5 showing prolonged residence lifetime in vivo, Bioconjugate Chemistry. 2006, 17(3): 571-574.

Paital A.R., Mitra T., Ray D., Wong W.T., Ribas-Ariño J., Novoa J.J., Ribas J. and Aromí G., Substituted m-phenylene bridges as strong ferromagnetic couplers for Cu^II-bridge-Cu^IImagnetic interactions: New perspectives , Chemical Communications. 2005, 41: 5172-5174.

Tanner P.A., Zhou X.J., Wong W.T., Kratzer C. and Yersin H., Structure and spectroscopy of Tb[Au(CN)₂]₃^.3H₂O, Journal of Physical Chemistry B. 2005, 109: 13083-13090.

Wong K.L., Law G.L., Yang Y. and Wong W.T., A highly porous luminescent terbium - Organic framework for reversible anion sensing , Advanced Materials . 2006, 18: 1051-1054.

Wong W.T., Co-Editor of Acta Crystallographica Section E (1/7/2005-30/6/2006), International Union of Crystallography . 2005.

Wong W.T., Member of Editorial Board (1/1998 - 6/2006), Journal of Cluster Science, Plenum Publishing. 2005.

Wong W.T., Member of Editorial Board (1/2006-), Current Chemical Biology, Bentham Science Publishers. 2006.

Wong W.T., Member of Editorial Board (1/2006-), European Journal of Inorganic Chemistry, VCH-Wiley. 2006.

Yang Y.Y., Zai S.B., Wong W.T. and Ng S.W., Poly[dimethylammonium aquadi-m-oxalato-europate(III) trihydrate], Acta Crystallograhic . 2005, 61: M1912-M1914.

Yao Y.M., Xu X.P., Liu B., Zhang Y., Shen Q. and Wong W.T., Carbon-bridge Bis(phenolato) Lanthanide alkoxidex: syntheses, structures, and their application in the controlled polymerization of e-Caprolactone , Inorganic Chemistry. 2005, 44: 5133-5140.

Yao Y.M., Ma M.T., Xu X.P., Zhang Y., Shen Q. and Wong W.T., Synthesis, reactivity and characterizations of amine bis(phenolate) lanthanide complexes and their application in the polymerization of e-caprolactone, Organometallics. 2005, 24: 4014-4020.

Yeung W.F., Kwong H.K., Lau T.C., Gao S., Sze-To L. and Wong W.T., Cyano-bridged molecular squares: Synthesis and structures of [Ni(cyclen]₂[Pt(CN₄]₂^.6H₂O, [Ni(cyclen]₂[Ni(CN)₄]₂^.6H₂O and [Mn(cyclen)]₂[Ni(CN₄]₂^.6H₂O, Polyhedron. 2006, 25: 1256-1262.

Yeung W.F., Lau P.H., Lau T.C., Wei H.Y., Sun H.L., Gao S., Chen Z.D. and Wong W.T., Heterometallic M^IIRu^III₂ compounds constructed from trans[Ru(Acac)₂(CN)₂]^--.syntheis, structures, magnetic properties, and density functional theoretical study, Inorganic Chemistry. 2005, 44: 6579-6590.

Researcher : Xu Z

List of Research Outputs

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors , Proceeding of SPIE. 2005, 5940: 5940IL.1401L.7.

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors, In: The SPIE society, Proceedings of the SPIE International Society for Opical Engineering. 2005, 5490: 54901L.

Xu Z., Liu J.D., Vellaisamy A.L.R., Ou Y. and Liao D.W., Catalyic synthesis of carbon nanotubes and carbon spheres using Kaolin supported catalyst , Materials Science and Engineering B . 2005, 123: 102-106.

Researcher : Yam CY

List of Research Outputs

Ma C.C., Zhao Y., Yam C.Y., Chen G. and Jiang Q., A tribological study of double-walled and triple-walled carbon nanotube oscillators, Nanotechnology. UK, Institute of Physics Publishing, 2005, 16: 1253-1264.

Researcher : Yam VWW

Project Title:	Synthetic design of molecular switches based on ion-/redox-induced processes
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002
Completion Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

The project attempts to develop two new approaches for the design of new classes of molecular switches. The first approach involves the rational molecular design and synthesis of square planar metal complexes and the utilization of ion-binding to bring about reversible trans-cis geometrical isomerization reactions of these complexes. The second approach employs an alternative new concept of a redox-induced 'link-delink' comformational change involving an S-S bridge in the macrocyclic functional ligand framework to influence the electronic interaction or communication between two metal centres through the macrocyclic bridging ligand in the presence of the S-S bridge ('link' state) and in the absence of the S-S bridge ('delink' state).

Project Title:	Synthesis and aggregation studies of Platinum(II) complexes in various media and environments
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	08/2003

Abstract:

To design, synthesize, and characterize various tridentate organic ligands; to incorporate the newly synthesized ligands into platinum metal centres and to characterize the metal complexes formed; to investigate the spectroscopic, electronic absorption, emission, and electrochemical properties of these platinum (II) complexes; to study the aggregation behaviour of these complexes in various solvent environments and microenvironments and to investigate the effects of environments on the electronic absorption and emission properties of these metal complexes; to explore and assess their potential for application as reporter of various environments.

Project Title:	Synthesis and aggregation studies of Platinum(II) complexes in various media and environments
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	08/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Design and Synthetic Strategies Towards Novel Classes of Photochromic Metal-Containing Compounds
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2004

Abstract:

To design, synthesize, and characterize various functionalized diarylethene ligands; to incorporate the newly synthesized ligands into selected metal centers and to characterize the metal complexes formed; to investigate the spectroscopic, electronic absorption, emission, and photochromic properties of the newly synthesized ligands and their metal complexes; to correlate their measured optical and photochromic properties as well as the thermal stabilities of their photocyclized forms with the electronic and structural aspects of the diarylethenes and the metal complexes.

Project Title:	Synthesis and Structure of Luminescent Redox-Active Carbon-Rich Mixed-Metal Complexes of Iron(II), Rhenium(I), and Platinum(II) -- From Molecules Towards Multi-Functional Molecular Devices
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW, Lapinte C., Wong MC, Halet J.
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	France/Hong Kong Joint Research Scheme - Travel Grants
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To synthesis various luminescent redox-active carbon-rich mixed-metal complexes of iron(II), rhenium(I) and platinum(II); to characterize the newly synthesized mixed-metal complexes structurally and spectroscopically; to investigate their spectroscopic, electrochemical, and luminescent behaviour, and to fabricate luminescent redox-active molecular device; to study the electronic structures of these complexes by means of density functional theory method; and to correlate their physical properties with the results obtained from theoretical studies.

Project Title:	Design and Synthetic Strategies Towards Novel Classes of Photochromic Metal-Containing Compounds
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Synthesis of anionic ruthenium crown-containing complexes and their applications in separation and indirect photometric detection of analytes in HPLC
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2005
Completion Date:	10/2005

Abstract:

In this project, a series of nw anionic ruthenium(II) complexes with crown ether pendant, which exhibits both chromophoric properties and cation-binding ability, will be synthesized.

Project Title:	A proposal submitted to URC for seed funding under the research theme on organic optoelectronics
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW, Che CM, Lai PT, Xu SJ, Djurisic A, Chan WK
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding for Strategic Research Theme
Start Date:	05/2005

Abstract:

To identify and build on existing strengths and efforts of research in HKU a multiplinary collaborative research team towards developing world-cleass excellence in organic optoelectronics research through the integration of research expertise and efforts in chemistry, physics and engineering. To accelerate and foster interdisciplinary research between the fields of chemistry, physics, and engineering. To establish HKU as a leading research center in materials for organic optoelectronic applications through innovative materials design and identification of novel device applications towards developing an internationally eminent research center and to advocate world-class research in the areas at HKU.

Project Title:	Design and Synthetic Strategies Towards Novel Classes of Luminescent Gold Alkynyls
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Design and Synthetic Strategies Towards Novel Classes of Luminescent Gold Alkynyls
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

The main objectives of this project are: (1) To design, synthesize, and characterize various nitrogen donor-containing ligands and mono-, di-, and tri- alkynes (2) To incorporate the newly synthesized nitrogen donor-containing ligands into gold metal centre to give the chlorogold precursor complexes and to characterize the precursor metal complexes formed (3) To incorporate the alkynyl ligands into the gold precursor complexes to give the target gold(III) alkynyl complexes and to characterize them (4) To investigate the electronic absorption, luminescence and electrochemical properties of the chlorogold precursor complexes and target gold(III) alkynyl complexes (5) To correlate the optical and luminescence properties of this highly novel class of gold(III) alkynyl complexes with the electronic and structural aspects of the ligands and the complexes, and to explore their potential for applications as triplet organic light-emitting materials

Project Title:	Design and Synthesis of Novel Classes of Oligothiophene-Based Functional Materials
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006
Completion Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the search for new advanced materials with unique properties for technological developments. One of the areas that is rapidly developing and is attracting a lot of attention is in the design and development of materials for use as organic optoelectronics and electronics. One particular area is in the search for new classes of organic and metal-organic compounds for organic field-effect transistors (OFETs) which is of immense current interest due to their relatively low cost and their potential applications in flexible large-area electronic devices such as displays and sensors. During the past decade, much attention have been focused on the study of a limited number of organic pi-conjugated molecules such as pentacene and sexithiophene as organic semiconductors for OFETs. For example, a-sexithiophene and its derivatives have been successfully employed as active components in organic field-effect transistors and light-emitting devices. Poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) has also been found to be amongst one of the first solution-processable organic semiconductors used for OFETs. P3HT films spun from a chloroform solution had mobilities in the range of 10-5 - 10-4 cm2V-1s-1. Despite these studies and growing interest in this area of research, most of the materials employed in these studies have been very limited and exploration into new classes of molecular materials with more diverse structures and varieties is rare. It is believed that an exploration into the design and synthesis of new classes of oligothiophene derivatives would represent a challenging area of research. Compared to pentacene, which is rigidly planar, oligothiophenes can easily twist from planarity, thus disrupting conjugation and potentially affecting band gap in the solid state. An intriguing approach for the design of conjugated small molecules would be to combine the stability of the thiophene ring with the planarity of linear acenes to produce thioacenes. Therefore the objective of this project is to design and synthesize new classes of organic oligothiophene and thioacene derivatives with interesting optical and electronic properties. Incorporation of various functional moieties into these oligothiophene and thioacene derivatives will also be made which may lead to other novel interesting properties. Introduction of various functional groups of different electronic properties will also be made to tune the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) levels of the materials to afford both p- and n-type organic semiconductors. Investigation of their functional properties will also be made. It is envisaged that with the appropriate design of the molecules with extended π-conjugation, novel classes of oligothiophene-based functional materials with interesting optical, electronic and functional properties could be obtained.

Project Title:	Carbon-rich metal-containing molecular and nano-scale functional materials
Investigator(s):	Yam VWW, Kwok HS, Chan WK, Tang BZ, Xu B, Cheah KW, Cui X
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Central Allocation Vote - Group Research Project
Start Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

To assessmble a multi-disciplnary and multi-institutional collaborative research team towards developing world-class excellence in carbon-rich metal-containing molecular and nano-scale functional materials; to generate, through the synergism of innovative materials design and synthesis, physical characterization, new knowledge in the study of carbon-rich metal-containing molecular and nano-scale functional materials and their properties; to explore the potential of these carbon-rich mdtal-containing molecular and nano-scale functional materials in various functions and applications, such as luminescence, photoconductors, nonlinear optics, organogels, liquid crystals, and molecular wires and junctions; to promote the visibility of Hong Kong as a world-recognised area of excellence in carbon-rich metal-containing molecular and nano-scale functional materials research.

List of Research Outputs

Cheng C.C., Lo W.Y., Yip S.K., Zhu N., Yuan L. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Soluble Polynuclear Gold(I) Chalcogenido and Alkynyl Aggregates, Abstract in the Pacifichem 2005 conference, Honolulu, USA, 15-20 December, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. E.C.C. Cheng). 2005.

Ko C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Photochromic and Luminescence Properties of a Versatile 1,10-Phenanthroline Ligand and Its Rhenium Complexes, Pacifichem 2005, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, December 15-20, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. Chi Chiu Ko). 2005.

Lam C.F., Yam V.W.W., Wong M.C., Cheng C.C. and Zhu N., Synthesis and characterization of luminescent rhenium(I) -- platinum(II) polypyridine bichromophoric alkynyl-bridged molecular rods, Organometallics. 2005, 24: 4298-4305.

Li C.K., Cheng C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent phosphinocrown-containing gold (I) complexes: Their syntheses, spectroscopic studies and host-guest chemistry, Inorganica Chimica Acta . 2005, 358: 4191-4200.

Li M., Chu B.W.K. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, characterization, spectroscopic, and electrochemiluminescence properties of a solvatochromic azacrown-containing cyanoruthenate(II): Potential applications in separation and indirect photometric detection of cations and amino acids in HPLC, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 3528-3537.

Li Q. and Yam V.W.W., High-yield synthesis of selenium nanowires in water at room temperature, Chemical Communications. 2006, 1006-1008.

Lu X.X., Cheng C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, luminescence and ion-binding properties of palladium(II) complexes with 1,2-bis[benzo-15-crown-5)phosphino]ehtane (dbcpe), Dalton Transactions. 2006, 1803-1806.

Tang W.S., Lu X., Wong M.C. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, photophysics and binding studies of platinum(II) alkynyl terpyridine complexes with crown ether pendant. Potential luminescent sensors for metal ions, Journal of Materials Chemistry. 2005, 15: 2714-2720.

Yam V.W.W., Design Strategies Towards Luminescent Metal-Based Molecular Materials, Invited speaker to give a one-hour lecture, Science College, Shantou University. 2006. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., Design Strategies Towards Molecular Triplet Emitters, The 4th Taiwanese PLED and PLED Association (TOPLEDA) International Workshop, Academia Sinica, Taipei (Invited Lecture). Taipei, 2005.. Taipei, 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Design and Assembly of Metal-Based Molecular Functional Materials for Electronics and Optoelectronics, The joint Royal Society of Chemistry/Korean Chemical Society symposium entitled "Chemistry in Electronics" at the 11th Asian Chemical Congress (11th ACC), Seoul, Korea (Invited Lecture). Seoul, Korea, 2005. . Seoul, Korea, 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Editorial Advisory Board (2005-09), Chinese Journal of Inorganic Chemistry. Chinese Chemical Society, Beijing, P.R. China, 2005.

Yam V.W.W., From Design To Assembly of Luminescent Metal-Based Molecular Functional Materials, RSC centenary lecturer to give a one-hour RSC centenary lecture , Department of Chemistry, Imperial College London, United Kingdom, May 2006. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., From Design To Assembly of Luminescent Metal-Based Molecular Functional Materials, RSC centenary lecturer to give a one-hour RSC centenary lecture , Department of Chemistry, University of Durham, United Kingdom, May 2006.. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., From Design To Assembly of Luminescent Metal-Based Molecular Functional Materials, RSC centenary lecturer to give a one-hour RSC centenary lecture , Department of Chemistry, University of Manchester, United Kingdom, May 2006. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., From Design To Assembly of Luminescent Metal-Based Molecular Functional Materials, RSC centenary lecturer to give a one-hour RSC centenary lecture , Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford, United Kingdom, May 2005. 2006.. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., From Design To Assembly of Luminescent Metal-Based Molecular Functional Materials, RSC centenary lecturer to give a one-hour RSC centenary lecture , Department of Chemistry, University of Swansea, United Kingdom, May 2006.. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., From Photophysics and Photochemistry to Functions and Applications of Luminescent Metal-Based Materials, The First France-Japan Advanced School on Chemistry and Physics of Molecular Materials (CNRS-JSPS), Rennes, France (Invited Lecture). 2006. . 2006.

Yam V.W.W., From design to assembly of luminescent metal-based molecular functional materials , Dalton division suposium on supramolecular photochemistry for the award lecture and presentation of medals, School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., International Editorial Advisory Board (2005-08), Organometallics. American Chemical Society, 2005.

Yam V.W.W., International Editorial Board, Comments on Inorganic Chemistry. Taylor & Francis, 2005.

Yam V.W.W. and Lo K.K.W., Luminescence behavior and photochemistry of organotransition metal compounds, Encyclopedia of inorganic chemistry. John-Wiley & Sons, 2005, V: 2748-2779.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Metal Alkynyls – From Simple Molecules to the Assembly of Molecular Functional Materials and Chemosensors, The New Age of Advanced Materials: The Integration of Supramolecular/Macromolecular Chemistry and Biotechnology, the 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem 2005), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA (Invited Lecture). 2005. . 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Metal-Based Molecular Materials – From Design To Assembly and Functions, Invited speaker to give a one-hour lecture, Department of Chemistry, Renmin University. 2005. 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Metal-Based Molecular Materials – From Fundamentals to Functions, Electronics, Photonics and Spintronics (CNRS-JSPS), France-Japan Symposium on Molecular Materials, Rennes, France (Invited Lecture). 2006. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Organometallics – From Fundamentals to Functions, The symposium entitled "New Horizon in Organometallics" at the 11th Asian Chemical Congress (ACC), Seoul, Korea (Invited Lecture). Seoul, Korea, 2005.. Seoul, Korea, 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent metal -- Based materials -- From fundamentals to functions, The symposium in honour of the 65^thbirthday of Professor C.K. Poon and the 70^thbirthday of Professor Harry B. Gary, HKU, Hong Kong. 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent metal -- containing p -- conjugated systems -- from fundamentals to functions, The 11^thInternational Symposium on Novel Aromatic Compounds (ISNA-11), Newfoundland, Canada (Plenary Lecture). 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent metal-based materials - their design and assembly from a molecular perspective, Comptes-Rendus Chimie. 2005, 8: 1194-1203.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent metal-based molecular materials -- From design to assembly and functionals , Australian Chemical Institute's National Convention Meeting (Connect 05) Sydeny, Australia (Divisional Plenary Lecture) . 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Luminescent metal-based molecular materials -- from fundamentals to functions, The 5^thNational Conference on Coordination Chemistry and the 1^stNational Conference on Bioinorganic Chemistry, Sun Yat-sen University (Zhongshan University), Guangzhou. 2005.

Yam V.W.W. and Wong M.C., Luminescent molecular rods - transition metal alkynyl complexes, Topics in Current Chemistry. Springer, 2005, 257: 1-32.

Yam V.W.W., Chan H.Y., Wong M.C. and Zhu N., Luminescent platinum(II) terpyridyl complexes: effect of counter ions on solvent-induced aggregation and color changes, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 4535-4543.

Yam V.W.W., Molecular Gold-Containing Triplet Emitters - From Fundamentals to Functions , The Heavy Glow: Metal Complexes for Electrophosphorescent OLEDs, the 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem 2005), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA (Invited Lecture). 2005.. 2005.

Yam V.W.W., Molecular Triplet Emitters ¡V From Design To Assembly and Functions, The IEEE Lasers and Electro-Optics Society (LEOS) 2005, Sydney, Australia (Invited Lecture). Sydney, Australia, 2005.

Yam V.W.W. and Tao C.H., Polyynes , Carbon-rich compounds -- From molecules to materials . Weinheim, Germany, Willy-VCH, 2006, 421-475.

Yam V.W.W., RSC Centenary Lectureship and Medal , Royal Society of Chemistry, United Kingdom. 2005.

Yam V.W.W., State Natural Science Award, National Office of Science and Technology Awards, China. 2006.

Yam V.W.W., The search of luminescent orgarometallics with functional propeties , The XVI^thFECHEM Conference on Organometallics Chemistry (organised by the Federation of European Chemical Societies and Professional Institute (FECS)), Budapest, Hungary (Plenary Lecture). 2005.

Yu S.Y., Zhang Z.X., Cheng C.C., Li Y.Z., Yam V.W.W., Huang H.P. and Zhang R., A chiral luminescent Au₁₆ ring self-assembled from achiral components, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 17994-17995.

Researcher : Yan J

List of Research Outputs

He S., Yan J., Shen R., Zhao S. and Toy P.H., Non-cross-linked Polystyrene-supported triphenylphosphine microencapsulated palladium: An efficient and recyclable catalyst for Suzuki-miyaura reactions, Synlett. 2006, 563-566.

Researcher : Yan SC

List of Research Outputs

Chai Y., Yan S.C., Wong I.L.K., Chow L.M.C. and Sun H., Complexation of antimony (Sb^V) with guanosine 5'-monophosphate and guanosine 5'-diphospho-D-mannose: Formation of both mono- and bis-adducts , Inorganic Chemistry. 2005, 99: 2257-2263.

Researcher : Yang D

Project Title:	HKU-Fudan Joint Laboratory on molecular design and synthesis - peptidominetics for drug discovery
Investigator(s):	Yang D, Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Vice-Chancellor's Office - General Award
Start Date:	03/2002

Abstract:

To develope chemical methods to provide a broad structural variety of aminoxy acids for the construction of combinatorial libraries; to explore the novel secondary structures of peptides containing [alpha]- and [beta]-aminoxy acids; to investigate the potential aminoxy acids in drug design.

Project Title:	Catalytic enantioselective atom transfer radical cyclization method for synthesis of biologically active natural products
Investigator(s):	Yang D
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2002
Completion Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

In a previous study, the research team has observed the highly enantioselective atom transfer radical cyclization reactions catalyzed by chiral Lewis acids. The objective of this project is to further explore the scope of chiral Lewis acid-catalyzed atom transfer radical cyclization method in asymmetric C-C bond formation and apply this method to the enantioslective total syntheses of biologically active natural products such as nitramine and candelalides A-C.

Project Title:	Aminoxy peptides as synthetic chloride channels
Investigator(s):	Yang D
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To design and synthesis of cyclic [alpha]-aminoxy peptides as models of chloride channels; to design and synthesis of linear [alpha]-aminoxy peptides as models of chloride channels; to characterize of synthetic chloride channels.

Project Title:	Aminoxy peptides as synthetic chloride channels
Investigator(s):	Yang D
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Ammonium salts as organocatalysts for asymmetric synthesis
Investigator(s):	Yang D
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005
Completion Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

To explore the potential of ammonium salts as organocatalysts for asymmetric synthesis and to develop efficient ammonium salts for practical applications.

Project Title:	Design and synthesis of methionine aminopeptidase-2 inhibitors as anti-angiogenic agents
Investigator(s):	Yang D, Chen G
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To develop an expedient route to construct the common core structure of fumagillin and ovalicin; to design, synthesis and biological evaluations fumagillin analogs as irreversible inhibitors of MetAP-2; to design, synthesis and biological evaluations fumagillin analogs as reversible inhibitors of MetAP-2.

Project Title:	Design and synthesis of methionine aminopeptidase-2 inhibitors as anti-angiogenic agents
Investigator(s):	Yang D
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Developing Catalytic Asymmetric Palladium(II)-Catalyzed Oxidative Tandem Cyclization Method for Natural Product Synthesis
Investigator(s):	Yang D
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2006
Completion Date:	12/2006

Abstract:

Palladium-catalyzed tandem cyclization reactions are versatile and powerful tools to construct complex polycyclic products as multiple stereocenters can be established in one step under mild conditions [1]. However, compared to the well-developed asymmetric tandem cyclization reactions catalyzed by chiral palladium(0) complexes [2], asymmetric oxidative tandem cyclization reactions involving palladium(II) complexes have received little attention, despite the fact that the latter one holds the advantage in forming C-X bond to generate heterocyclic molecules, many of which are core structures of potent drugs and bioactive natural products. Oxidative catalysis by palladium(II) usually requires cocatalysts (e.g., copper salts) or organic oxidants (e.g., benzoquinone) to regenerate palladium(II), thus making asymmetric process more complex [3]. The only successful work on enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions by Pd(II) was reported by Sasai [4], where Wacker-type tandem cyclization of alkenyl alcohols afforded bicyclic product with excellent enantiomeric excess up to 95%, but an excess amount of benzoquinone was used as the oxidant (Figure 1). The objective of this research project is to develop enantioselective palladium(II)-catalyzed oxidative tandem cyclization reactions under simple aerobic conditions for the synthesis of polycyclic N-heterocycles.

Project Title:	Developing highly specific and sensitive fluorescent probes for peroxynitrite detection in biological systems
Investigator(s):	Yang D
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Developing highly specific and sensitive fluorescent probes for peroxynitrite detection in biological systems
Investigator(s):	Yang D
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

The main object of this project is to investigate fluorescent probes based on fluorescein and BODIPY chromophores that are commonly used in biological imaging. The advent of a simple, sensitive and specific probe for peroxynitrite detection is of great importance in the biomedical research of peroxynitrite.

List of Research Outputs

Chen F. and Yang D., Condensation of amino acids to form peptides in aqueous solution induced by the Oxidation of Sulfur(IV), The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22, 2006.

Chen F. and Yang D., Condensation of amino acids to peptides in aqueous solution induced by the oxidation of sulfur(IV) -- An oxidative model for prebiotic peptide formation , The 231^st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30, 2006.

Chen H. and Yang D., AgBF₄ catalyzed stereoselective 1,6-Enyne cyclization - fluorination reactions, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Chen H. and Yang D., Stereo-selective fluorination via AgBF₄-catalyzed 1,6-enyne cyclization reaction , The 231st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30. 2006.

Chen W., Li R., Han B., Li B.J., Chen Y.C., Wu Y., Ding L.S. and Yang D., The design and synthesis of Bis(thiourea) Ligands and their application in Pd-catalyzed heck and Suzuki reactions under aerobic conditions , European Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2006, 2006: 1177-1184.

Guan X., Phillips D.L. and Yang D., A density functional theory study of the 5-Exo cyclization reaction of a-substituted 6, 6-dipheny-5-hexenyl radicals , Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2006, 71: 1984-1988.

Kumar D.S.S., Lau W.C.S., Wan J.M.F., Yang D. and Hyde K.D., Immunomodulatory compounds from Pestalotiopsis leucothës, an endophytic fungus from Tripterygium wilfordii, Life Sciences. 2005, 78: 147-156.

Law K.L., Lee O.Y. and Yang D., Lewis acid-catalyzed secondary amine formation via direct reductive amination of carbonyl compounds , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Lee O.Y., Law K.L., Ho C.Y. and Yang D., Highly chemoselective reductive amination of carbonyl compounds promoted by InCl₃, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22 . 2006.

Li C. and Yang D., First total synthesis of (-)-5-demethoxyfumagillol, The 231^st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30, 2006.

Li C. and Yang D., Total synthesis of (-)-5-demethoxyfumagillol, The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Sun Z. and Yang D., Highly selective fluorescent probe for detection of peroxynitrite , The 231^st American Chemical Society National Meeting, Atlanta, GA, U.S.A., March 26-30, 2006.

Sun Z. and Yang D., Highly selective fluroesecnt probe for detection of peroxynitrite , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Yang D., Wang H., Sun Z., Chung N.W. and Shen J., A highly selective fluorescent probe for the detection and imaging of peroxynitrite in living cells , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 6004-6005.

Yang D., Aminoxy acids as new peptidomimetic foldamers , Chinese Chemistry Society 4^th National Organic Chemistry Conference, Kunming, China, August 1, 2005.

Yang D., Catalytic asymmetric cyclization reactions for natural product synthesis , China-Germany Joint Workshop on Organocatalysis and Certain Aspects of Green Chemistry, Hangzhou, China, April 1, 2006.

Yang D., Catalytic asymmetric cyclization reactions for natural product synthesis , Modern Synthetic Methods & Chiral U.S.A. 2005, Princeton, U.S.A., July 1, 2005.

Yang D., Catalytic asymmetric cyclization reactions for natural product synthesis, Gordon Research Conference on Natural Products Chemistry, New Hampshire, U.S.A., July 1, 2005.

Yang D., Developing fluorescent sensors for highly specific detection of peroxynitrite in cells , 4^th National Symposium on Chemical Biology, Wuhan, China, October 1, 2005.

Yang D., Developing fluorescent sensors for highly specific detection of peroxynitrite in cells , Congress of PACIFICHEM 2005 Symposium Entitled "Chemistry and Biology of NO and Reactive Oxygen Species"Honolulu, U.S.A., December 1, 2005.

Yang D., Eli Lilly Asian Scientific Excellence Award, 2006, Eli Lilly and Company. 2006.

Yang D., Zheng B., Gao Q., Gu S. and Zhu N., Enantioselective PhSe-group-transfer tandem radical cyclization reactions catalytzed by a chiral lewis acid, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2005, 45: 255-258.

Yang D., Explorations of catalytic asymmetric cyclization reactions for natural product synthesis , XI^th NOST Symposium, October 1, 2005, Goa, India . 2005.

Yang D., Explorations of catalytic asymmetric cyclization reactions for natural product synthesis, Congress of PACIFICHEM 2005 Symposium Entitled "Chemistry and Biology of NO and Reactive Oxygen Species"Honolulu, U.S.A., December 1. 2005.

Yang D., Guest Editor, Tetrahedron Symposium-in-Print on Recent Advances in Oxidation Chemistry . 2006.

Yang D., Invited lecture , Congress of PACIFCHEM 2005 Symposium entitled "Chemsitry and Biology of NO and Reactive Oxygen Species", Honolulu, U.S.A., December 1, 2005. 2005.

Yang D., Invited lecture , Congress of PACIFCHEM 2005 Symposium entitled "Total Synthesis of Natural Products", Honolulu, U.S.A., December 1, 2005. 2005.

Yang D., Invited lecture , Gordon Research Conference on Natural Products Chemistry, Hampshire, U.S.A., July 1, 2005. 2005.

Yang D., Invited lecture , The 4^th National Symposium on Chemical Biology, October 1, 2005. 2005.

Yang D., Invited lecture , The CCS 4^th National Organic Chemistry Conference, Kunming, China, August 1, 2006. 2005.

Yang D., Invited lecture , XI^th NOST Symposium, Goa, India, October 1, 2005. 2005.

Yang D., Invited lecture, 4^th Workshop on Frontier Applied Chemistry Research: "Chronicling more than Three Decades. Inorganic Chemistry in Biomedical and Materials Saciences", November 1. 2005.

Yang D., Invited lecture, China-Germany Joint Workshop on Organocatalysis and Certain Aspects of Green Chemistry, Hangzhou, China, April 1, 2006. 2006.

Yang D., Invited lecture, Modern Synthesic Methods & Chiral USA 2005, Princeton, U.S.A., July 1, 2005. 2005.

Yang D., Invited lecture, Princeton University, U.S.A., July 1. 2005.

Yang D., The 2006 Abbott Process Chemistry Lecturer, University of Wisconsin-Madison/Abbott Lab, USA. 2006.

Yang D., The 2006 LEO Pharma Lecturer , Technical University of Denmark/LEO Pharma, Copenhagen, Denmark. 2006.

Yang D., Using synthetic organic chemistry to probe biological mechanisms. , 4th Workshop on Frontier Applied Chemistry Research: "Chronicling More Than Threee Decades. Inorganic Chemistry in Biomedical and Materials Sciences" November 1, 2005, Hong Kong . 2005.

Yip K.T.P., Li J., Lee O.Y. and Yang D., Aerobic oxidative cyclization under Pd(II) catalysis: A regioselective approach to heterocycles, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5717-5719.

Yip K.T.P., Yang M. and Yang D., Pd(II)-catalyzed enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Yip K.T.P., Yang M., Law K.L., Zhu N. and Yang D., Pd(II)-catalyzed enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions. Synthesis of Indolines through C-N and C-C bond formation, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 3130-3131.

Researcher : Yang M

List of Research Outputs

Yip K.T.P., Yang M. and Yang D., Pd(II)-catalyzed enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Yip K.T.P., Yang M., Law K.L., Zhu N. and Yang D., Pd(II)-catalyzed enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions. Synthesis of Indolines through C-N and C-C bond formation, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 3130-3131.

Researcher : Yang M

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Yang P

List of Research Outputs

Li X.P., Li Y.S., Li X., Ding Y., Chan L.L.Y., Yang P., Li G., Liu X., Lin J.S., Wang J., He M.L., Kung H.F., Lin M.C. and Peng Y., Inhibition of human nasopharyngeal carcinoma growth and metastasis in mice by adenovirus-associated virus-mediated expression of human endostatin, Molecular Cancer Therapeutics. 2006, 5: 1290-1298.

Lin M.C., Lee P.Y., Zheng N., Yang P., Wong O.G., Kung H.F., Hui C.K., Luk J.M.C. and Lau G., Tumor necrosis factor-a-induced protein 1 and immunity to hepatitis B virus, World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2005, 11(48): 7564-8.

Peng Y., Yang P., Tanner J.A., Huang J., Li M., Lee H.H.F., Xu R.H., Kung H. and Lin M.C., Cold-inducible RNA binding protein is required for the expression of adhesion molecules and embryonic cell movement in Xenopus laevis, Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2006, 344: 416-424.

Researcher : Yang Y

List of Research Outputs

Guan X., Tse M.K., Yang Y., Sze K.H., Cheung K.K. and Wong K.B., Study of the structure and dynamics of a thermophilic acylphosphatase from Pyrococcus horikoshii by NMR spectroscopy, Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005. PO-08, p.24.

Wong K.L., Law G.L., Yang Y. and Wong W.T., A highly porous luminescent terbium - Organic framework for reversible anion sensing , Advanced Materials . 2006, 18: 1051-1054.

Yang Y., Guan X., Tse M.K., Sze K.H. and Haynes R.K., Determination of solution structures of lolatins and tyrocidine-A by NMR spectroscopy , Croucher Foundation Advanced Study Institute: Advances in Protein Sciences, Biochemistry Department, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 15-17 December 2005 . 2005, PO-30, p.46.

Researcher : Yang Y

List of Research Outputs

Wong K.L., Law G.L., Yang Y. and Wong W.T., A highly porous luminescent terbium - Organic framework for reversible anion sensing , Advanced Materials . 2006, 18: 1051-1054.

Researcher : Yang Z

Project Title:	Evaluation of HIF-1α and VEGF expression after hypoxia and chemotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma
Investigator(s):	Yang Z, Fan ST, Poon RTP
Department:	Centre for the Study of Liver Disease
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004
Completion Date:	10/2005

Abstract:

To investigate the expression pattern of HIF-1α and VEGF in serially collected tissue and plasma samples after hypoxia and chemotherapy in an orthotopic HCC model in rat.

Project Title:	Combination of mTOR inhibitor with chemo-cytotoxic agent for the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Investigator(s):	Yang Z, Poon RTP
Department:	Surgery
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2006
Completion Date:	12/2006

Abstract:

Objective: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) ranks fifth in frequency worldwide among all malignancies and causes one million deaths annually. Hepatic resection and liver transplantation are the only two approaches that may cure HCC, but the majority of patients present with an advanced stage beyond surgical treatment. Chemotherapy is widely employed to treat unresectable HCC, but the efficacy is not satisfactory due to the resistance of tumor cells to the chemo-cytotoxic agents. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) has been demonstrated to play an important role in the chemo-resistant pathways in some tumors. Therefore, we design the present study to evaluate the therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibition on enhancement of chemo-sensitivity of HCC tumor cells to chemo-cytotoxic agents.

List of Research Outputs

Wang Y., Cheung Y.H., Yang Z., Chiu J., Che C.M. and He Q., Proteomic approach to study the cytotoxicity of dioscin (saponin), Proteomics. 2006, 6: 2422-2432.

Researcher : Yao J

List of Research Outputs

Yao J., Wang H., Ringer S.P., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N.P., Growth of SAPO-34 in polymer hydrogels through vapor-phase transport, Microporous and Mesoporous Materials . 2005, 85: 267-272.

Yao J., Wang H., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Incorporating organic polymer into silica walls: A novel strategy for synthesis of templated mesoporous silica with tunable pore structure, Microporous and Mesoporous Materials. 2005, 82: 183-189.

Yao J., Wang H., Liu J., Chan G.K.Y., Zhang L. and Xu N., Preparation of colloidal microporous carbon spheres from furfuryl alcohol, Carbon. 2005, 43: 1709-1715.

Researcher : Yau HPM

List of Research Outputs

Yau H.P.M. and Chan W.T., A Novel Detection Scheme of Trace Elements Using ICP-MS, Journal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry. The Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 1197-1202.

Researcher : Ye J

List of Research Outputs

Ye J., Pang H.F. and Cheung A.S.C., Optical-optical double resonance spectroscopy of yttrium monohalides , International Symposium on Molecular Spectroscopy, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, U.S.A., June 19-23, 2006. Poster No. RH11.

Researcher : Yeung CM

List of Research Outputs

Wang X., Li M., Wang J., Yeung C.M., Zhang H., Kung H., Jiang B. and Lin M.C., The BH3-only protein, PUMA, is involved in oxaliplatin-induced apoptosis in colon cancer cells, Biochemical Pharmacology. 2006, 71(11): 1540-1550.

Researcher : Yip KTP

List of Research Outputs

Yip K.T.P., Li J., Lee O.Y. and Yang D., Aerobic oxidative cyclization under Pd(II) catalysis: A regioselective approach to heterocycles, Organic Letters. 2005, 7: 5717-5719.

Yip K.T.P., Oxidative palladium catalysis under aerobic condition: studies on mono-cyclization of b-Keto amides and tandem cyclization of alkenyl anilines (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Yip K.T.P., Yang M. and Yang D., Pd(II)-catalyzed enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions , The 13th Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 22. 2006.

Yip K.T.P., Yang M., Law K.L., Zhu N. and Yang D., Pd(II)-catalyzed enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions. Synthesis of Indolines through C-N and C-C bond formation, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 3130-3131.

Researcher : Yip SK

List of Research Outputs

Cheng C.C., Lo W.Y., Yip S.K., Zhu N., Yuan L. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Soluble Polynuclear Gold(I) Chalcogenido and Alkynyl Aggregates, Abstract in the Pacifichem 2005 conference, Honolulu, USA, 15-20 December, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. E.C.C. Cheng). 2005.

Yip S.K., Design, synthesis, characterization and luminescence properties of alkynylogold(I) complexes - strategies towards supramolecular architectres and host guest chemistry (PhD Thesis). 2005.

Researcher : Yip SK

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Yip WP

List of Research Outputs

Yip W.P., Yu W.Y., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Alkene cis-Dihydroxylation by [(Me₃tacn)(CF₃CO₂)Ru^VIO₂]CIO₄(Me₃tacn = 1,4,7-Trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane); Structural characterization of [3+2] cycloadducts and kinetic studies, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 14239-14249.

Researcher : You T

List of Research Outputs

Fung Y.S., Zhu D., Li Z. and You T., "Electrophoretic nano-coating" (Chinese Patent No. CN-2005-1654558A) , Chinese Patent Office . 2005.

Fung Y.S., Zhu D., Li Z. and You T., "Electrophoretic nano-coating" (US-2005-0173248A1) , Unitied States Patent Office . 2005.

Li Y.H., Wang C.Y., Sun J.Y., Zhou Y.C., You T., Wang E.K. and Fung Y.S., Determination of dioxopromethazine hydrochloride by capillary electrophoresis with electrochemiluminescence detection, Analytica Chimica Acta. 2005, 550: 40-46.

Researcher : Yu G

List of Research Outputs

Song L.C., Yu G., Hu Q.M., Che C.M., Zhu N. and Huang J.S., Synthesis and Characterization of the Frst Transition-Metal Fullerene Complexes Containing Bis(eta6-benzene)chromium Moieties, Journal of Organometallic Chemistry. Elsevier, 2006, 691: 787–792.

Researcher : Yu SC

Project Title:	Functionalized organic semiconductors for organic thin film transistor (OTFT) development
Investigator(s):	Yu SC, Che CM
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

The underlying theme of this project is to develop low-cost and practical organic semiconductors for organic thin film transistor (OTFT) applications. The principal objectives are: 1) to design stable and high performance organic semiconductors for use in OTFT technologies; 2) to develop a temperature-controlled OTFT fabrication system for improving device performance; 3) to study the structural effect of organic semiconductors on device performance. Importantly, the overall target is to transfer the technologies developed by this project to other material research programs under investigation at HKU, such as studies on new organic materials for molecular electronics.

List of Research Outputs

Che C.M. and Yu S.C., "Electroluminescent Metallo-Supramolecules with Terpyridine-based groups", (U.S. 2004/0086744A1; PCT/CN03/00891; European Application No. 03757649.3). 2005.

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors , Proceeding of SPIE. 2005, 5940: 5940IL.1401L.7.

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors, In: The SPIE society, Proceedings of the SPIE International Society for Opical Engineering. 2005, 5490: 54901L.

Researcher : Yu WY

Project Title:	Ruthenium-carbenoids for carbon-carbon bond formations: asymmetric catalysis, catalyst design and synthetic applications
Investigator(s):	Yu WY, Chan PWH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003
Completion Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

1) To develop catalytic protocols for stereoand enantioselective carbon-carbon bond formations based on ruthenium-carbenoids. 2) To create a cross-disciplinary platform for catalyst design and organic synthesis involving collaboration between inorganic and organic chemists.

Project Title:	Ruthenium-carbenoids for carbon-carbon bond formations: asymmetric catalysis, catalyst design and synthetic applications
Investigator(s):	Yu WY, Chan PWH
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

N/A

List of Research Outputs

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, 13th Symposium oc Chemistry Postgraduate Research In Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 17, 2006.

Lok C.N., Ho C.M., Chen R., He Q., Yu W.Y., Sun H., Tam P.K.H., Chiu J. and Che C.M., Proteomic analysis of the mode of antibacterial action of silver nanoparticles, Journal of Proteome Research. 2006, 5: 916-924.

Yip W.P., Yu W.Y., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Alkene cis-Dihydroxylation by [(Me₃tacn)(CF₃CO₂)Ru^VIO₂]CIO₄(Me₃tacn = 1,4,7-Trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane); Structural characterization of [3+2] cycloadducts and kinetic studies, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 14239-14249.

Zhang R., Yu W.Y. and Che C.M., Catalytic enantioselective oidation of aromatic hydrocarbons with D₄symmetric chiral ruthenium porphyrin catalysts , Tetrahedron: Asymmetry. 2005, 16: 3520-3526.

Researcher : Yuan L

List of Research Outputs

Cheng C.C., Lo W.Y., Yip S.K., Zhu N., Yuan L. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Soluble Polynuclear Gold(I) Chalcogenido and Alkynyl Aggregates, Abstract in the Pacifichem 2005 conference, Honolulu, USA, 15-20 December, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. E.C.C. Cheng). 2005.

Researcher : Yuen WH

List of Research Outputs

Chang R.C.C., Yu M.S., Lai S.W., Zee S.S.Y., Yuen W.H. and So K.F., Screening of neuroprotective agents from Chinese medicinal herbs by protein kinases, Society for Neuroscience 2005. Program No. 209.5.

Fang X., Yu M.S., Yuen W.H., Zee S.S.Y. and Chang R.C.C., Immune modulatory effects of Prunella vulgaris L. on monocytes/macrophages, International Journal of Molecular Medicine. 2005, 16: 1109-1116.

Ho Y.S., Yu M.S., So K.F., Yuen W.H. and Chang R.C.C., Extact of Lycium barbarumexhibit cytoprotection on neurons againstg reducing stress on the endoplasmic reticlum , International symopsium on healthy aging: A global challenge for the 21^thcentury, Hong Kong, March 4-5, 2006.

Ip K.C., Chiu K., Yu M.S., Yuen W.H., Zee S.S.Y., Chang R.C.C. and So K.F., Immunomodulatory effects of Lycium barbarum on neuroprotection in chronic ocular hypertensive model, 2005 Hong Kong-Macau Postgraduate Symposium on Chinese Medicine. 2005, 124-125 C-10 Poster Presentation.

Ip K.C., Chiu K., Yu M.S., Yuen W.H., Zee S.S.Y., Chang R.C.C. and So K.F., Neuroprotective effect of Lycium Barbarum in rat chronic ocular hypertension model via immunomodulation of macrophages/microglia, The Hong Kong Society of Neurosciences, The 25th Annual Scientific Meeting, December 5-6, 2005. 31 Poster-8.

Lai S.W., Yu M.S., Yuen W.H., Zee S.S.Y., So K.F. and Chang R.C.C., Inhibitory effects of b-amyloid peptide neurotoxicity by the aqueous extracts from Verbena Officinalis, Society for Neuroscience 2005. Program No. 209.6.

Lai S.W., Yu M.S., Yuen W.H., Zee S.S.Y., So K.F. and Chang R.C.C., Neuroprotection and herbal medicine: experience form Verbeba Officinalisin Protecting Neurons from Beta-amyloid peptide toxicity , International Symposium on healthy aging: A global challenge for the 21^stCentury, Hong Kong, March 4-5, 2006.

Lai S.W., Yu M.S., Yuen W.H., Zee S.S.Y., So K.F. and Chang R.C.C., Neuroprotective effects of aqueous extracts from Verbena officinalis against Beta-amyloid peptide-induced neurotoxicity, 2005 Hong Kong-Macau Postgraduate Symposium on Chinese Medicine. 2005, 134-135 C-15 Poster Presentation.

Lai S.W., Yu M.S., Yuen W.H. and Chang R.C.C., Novel neuroprotective effects of the aqueous extracts from Verbena officinalis Linn, Neuropharmacology. 2006, 50: 641-650.

Lai S.W., Yu M.S., Yuen W.H., Zee S.S.Y., So K.F. and Chang R.C.C., Potential neuroprotective agent from botanical extract: an experience of using verbena officinalis against b-amyloid peptide neurotoxicity, The Hong Kong Society of Neurosciences, The 25th Annual Scientific Meeting December 5-6, 2005. 33 Poster-10.

Yu M.S., Ho Y.S., So K.F., Yuen W.H. and Chang R.C.C., Cytoprotective effects of lycium barbarum on cultured neurons against reducing stress on the endoplasmic reticulum, The Hong Kong Society of Neurosciences, The 25th Annual Scientific Meeting, December 5-6, 2005. 30 Poster-7.

Yu M.S., Ho Y.S., So K.F., Yuen W.H. and Chang R.C.C., Cytoprotective effects of Lycium barbarum against reducing stress on endoplasmic reticulum, International Journal of Molecular Medicine. 2006, 17: 1157-1161.

Yu M.S., Leung K.Y., Lai S.W., Che C.M., Zee S.S.Y., So K.F., Yuen W.H. and Chang R.C.C., Neuroprotective effects of anti-aging oriental medicine Lycium barbarum against bamyloid peptide neurotoxicity, Experimental Gerontology. 2005, 40: 716-727.

Yu M.S., Lai S.W., Zee S.S.Y., Yuen W.H., So K.F. and Chang R.C.C., Postential significance of anti-aging Lycium barbarum in Alzheimer's disease, 2005 Hng Kong-Macau Postgraduate Symposium on Chinese Medicine. 2005, 180-181C-38 Poster Presentation.

Yuen W.H., Neuroprotective Agents from Chinese Medicine , The 4th Annual congress of international drug discovery science & technology (IDDST 2006) May 26 - June 2, 2006.

Researcher : Yung KF

Project Title:	The chemistry of osmium nanoparticles
Investigator(s):	Yung KF, Wong WT
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004
Completion Date:	04/2006

Abstract:

To establish new synthetic routes to osmium nanoparticles; to study the physical and chemical properties of osmium nanoparticles; to investigate the factor that control the size of osmium nanoparticles.

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Zhang C

List of Research Outputs

He S., Zhang C., Ng K.W. and Toy P.H., Polystyrene-supported Triphenylarsines: Useful ligands in palladium-catalyzed aryl halide homocoupling reactions and a catalyst for alkene epoxidation using hydrogen peroxide , Tetrahedron. 2005, 61: 12053-12057.

Researcher : Zhang F

List of Research Outputs

Ma D.L., Shum Y.T., Zhang F., Che C.M. and Yang M., Water soluble luminescent platinum terpyridine complexes wiht glycosylated acetylide and arylacetylide ligands: photoluminescent properties and cytotoxicities, Chemical Communications. 2005, 4675-4677.

Researcher : Zhang J

List of Research Outputs

Che C.M., Zhang J., Zhang R., Huang J.S., Lai T.S., Tsui H.W.M., Zhou X.G., Zhou Z.Y., Zhu N. and Chang C.K., Hydrocarbon oxidation by b-Halogenated dioxoruthenium (VI) porphyrin camplexes: effect of reduction potential (Ru^VI/V) and C-H bond-dissociation energy on rate constants, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 7040-7053.

Lai S.W., Hou Y., Chan S.C., Zhang J., Che C.M., Kwok W.M. and Phillips D.L., Photo-reduction of methylviologen in alcohol solutions using luminescent platinum(II) photocatalysts, 2005 International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem), Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 15-20 December. 2005.

Li G.Y., Zhang J., Chan P.W.H., Xu Z., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Enantioselective intramolecular cyclopropanation of cis-alkenes by chiral ruthenium(II) schiff base catalysts and crystal structures of (Schiff base) ruthenium complexes containing carbene, PPh₃, and CO ligands , Organometallics. 2006, 25: 1676-1688.

Zhang J., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Enantioselective intramolecular amidation of sulfamate esters catalyzed by chiral manganese (III) Schiff-base complexes, Tetrahedron Letters. 2005, 46: 5403-5408.

Zhang J., Huang J.S. and Che C.M., Oxidation chemistry of poly(ethylene glycol)-supported carbonylruthenium(II) and dioxoruthenium(VI) meso-tetrakis (pentafluorophenyl) porphyrin, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 3020-3031.

Researcher : Zhang J

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Zhang J

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Zhang R

List of Research Outputs

Che C.M., Zhang J., Zhang R., Huang J.S., Lai T.S., Tsui H.W.M., Zhou X.G., Zhou Z.Y., Zhu N. and Chang C.K., Hydrocarbon oxidation by b-Halogenated dioxoruthenium (VI) porphyrin camplexes: effect of reduction potential (Ru^VI/V) and C-H bond-dissociation energy on rate constants, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 7040-7053.

Zhang R., Yu W.Y. and Che C.M., Catalytic enantioselective oidation of aromatic hydrocarbons with D₄symmetric chiral ruthenium porphyrin catalysts , Tetrahedron: Asymmetry. 2005, 16: 3520-3526.

Researcher : Zhang X

List of Research Outputs

Zhang X., Ko Y.Y., Li S., Miao R. and Chiu P., Allenes as dipolarophiles in the intramolecular carbene cyclization-cycloaddition cascade reaction, Synlett. 2006, 1197-1200.

Researcher : Zhang Y

List of Research Outputs

Fung Y.S., Zhang Y., Si S., Sun H. and Yao S.Z., DNA Piezoelectric Quartz Crystal Biosensors , In: (C.A. Grimes, E.C. Dickey and M.V. Pishko, eds), Encyclopedia of Sensors, First Edition. American Scientific Publishers, 2006, 2: 439-450.

Fung Y.S., Si S., Zhang Y. and Zhu D., Piezoelectric immunosensors for detection of bacteria, In: (C.A. Grimes, E.C. Dickey and M.V. Pishko, eds), Encyclopedia of Sensors, First Edition . American Scientific Publishers, CA, USA, 2006, 7: 451-462.

Sun H., Zhang Y., Si S., Zhu D. and Fung Y.S., Piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) with photochemically deposited nano-sized Ag particles for determining cyanide at trace levels in water, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 925-932.

Zhang Y., Fung Y.S., Sun H., Zhu D. and Yao S., Study of protein adsorption on polymer coatings surface by combining quartz crystal microbalance with electrochemical impedance methods, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 933-942.

Researcher : Zhao Y

Project Title:	Computer simulation of carbon nanotube bearings and nanoscopic equipartition processes
Investigator(s):	Zhao Y
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2005

Abstract:

To explore various mechanical properties of CNT-based bearings and rotators, to optimize their nanomechanic operating conditions, to help design new, CNT-based NEMS components.

Project Title:	Nano Bearings and Statistical Mechanics Hypotheses
Investigator(s):	Zhao Y
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2005
Completion Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Ultrafast Relaxation Dynamics of Photo-Excited States
Investigator(s):	Zhao Y, Dai J
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

The advent of ultrafast femtosecond laser spectroscopy brings about intense research interest in relaxation dynamics of photo-excited states in liquids and solids. It is now commonly accepted that dephasing and relaxation time scales in condensed matter are approximately picoseconds, and in semiconductor dots and wells, tens of picoseconds. Newly-arrived technological capabilities to control femtosecond pulse durations and down-to-one-hertz bandwidth resolutions provide novel probes on vibrational dynamics and excitation relaxation. For example, progress in femtosecond spectroscopic techniques has made it possible to observe a coherent phonon wave packet oscillating along an adiabatic potential surface associated with a self-trapped exciton in a crystal with strong exciton-phonon interactions. [1-2] However, despite a flood of new, fascinating measurements, a microscopic theory of nonlinear optical response in general and photo-generated excitation relaxation in particular, essential to interpret those experimental findings, remains largely elusive. It is the purpose of the proposed project to formulate time-dependent polaronic wave functions that facilitate microscopic modelling of photo-generated excitation relaxation and realistic computation of various third-order optical response functions, and help to bring about a satisfactory comparison between theory and experiment. To that end, a hierarchy of time-dependent variational wave functions with increasing sophistication will be devised to accurately describe femtosecond polaron dynamics for various circumstances, and the Dirac-Frenkel variational principle will be employed to optimize these trial states. Based on these wave functions, nonlinear optical response functions such as time-resolved spontaneous emission spectra will be then calculated, and results will be applied to interpret a large variety of available experimental data. Quasi-one-dimensional molecules, such as polydiacetylene, beta-carotenoid and halogen bridged mixed valent platinum compounds, have recently emerged as promising candidates for ultrafast optical devices with enhanced nonlinearities. In one-dimensional systems, polaronic self-trapping is believed to take place without a potential barrier, and the time scale for barrier-free trapping is expected to be extremely small. For simplicity, the proposed project will start with the one-dimensional Holstein model [4-7] that can realistically describe polaron dynamics in these quasi-one-dimensional molecules. The formulation to be developed here, however, is expected to be readily extendable to higher dimensions. Polaron dynamics in the simultaneous presence of diagonal and off-diagonal exciton-phonon coupling will also be considered. The former is defined as a nontrivial dependence of the exciton site energies on lattice coordinates, and the latter, as a nontrivial dependence of the exciton transfer integral on lattice coordinates. Most polaron models in the literature have chosen to neglect the off-diagonal exciton-phonon coupling owing to difficulties in obtaining reliable solutions in its presence. The time-dependent polaronic wave functions to be developed here is expected to be well-suited to simulate polaron dynamics in the presence of both types of exciton-phonon interactions. References [1] S. Tomimoto, H. Nansei, S. Saito, T. Suemoto, J. Takeda, and S. Kurita, Phys. Rev. Lett. 81, 417 (1998). [2] S.L. Dexheimer, A.D. van Pelt, J.A. Brozik, and B.I. Swanson, Phys. Rev. Lett. 84, 4425 (2000). [3] P.A.M. Dirac, Proc. Cambridge, Phil. Soc. 26, 376 (1930); J. Frenkel, Wave Mechanics (Oxford University Press, Oxford, 1934). [4] T. Holstein, Ann. Phys. (N.Y.) 8, 325 (1959). [5] T. Holstein, Ann. Phys. (N.Y.) 8, 343 (1959). [6] Y. Toyozawa, Prog. Theor. Phys. 26, 29 (1961). [7] Y. Zhao, D.W. Brown, and K. Lindenberg, J. Chem. Phys. 107, 3159 (1997).

List of Research Outputs

Ma C.C., Zhao Y., Yam C.Y., Chen G. and Jiang Q., A tribological study of double-walled and triple-walled carbon nanotube oscillators, Nanotechnology. UK, Institute of Physics Publishing, 2005, 16: 1253-1264.

Shi S., Li G., Xu S.J., Zhao Y. and Chen G., Green luminescence band in ZnO: Fine structures, electron-phonon coupling, and temperature effect, Journal of Physical Chemistry B. American Chemical Society, 2006, 110: 10475-10478.

Wong L.H., Zhao Y., Chen G. and Chwang A.T.Y., Grooving the carbon nanotube oscillators, Applied Physics Letters. 2006, 88: 183107-1 to 183107-3.

Xu S.J., Li G., Wang Y., Zhao Y., Chen G., Zhao D.G., Zhu J.J., Yang H., Yu D.P. and Wang J.N., Quantum dissipation and broadening mechanisms due to electron-phonon interactions in self-formed InGaN quantum dots, Applied Physics Letters. New York, American Institute of Physics, 2006, 88: 083123: 1-3.

Zhao Y., Ma C.C., Wong L.H., Chen G., Xu Z.P., Zheng Q.S., Jiang Q. and Chwang A.T.Y., Energy Exchanges in Carbon Nanotube Oscillators, Nanotechnology. UK, Institute of Physics Publishing, 2006, 17: 1032-1035.

Researcher : Zheng B

List of Research Outputs

Yang D., Zheng B., Gao Q., Gu S. and Zhu N., Enantioselective PhSe-group-transfer tandem radical cyclization reactions catalytzed by a chiral lewis acid, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2005, 45: 255-258.

Zheng B., Lewis acid-catalyzed asymmetric atom and group transfer radical cyclization reactions (PhD Thesis) . 2006.

Researcher : Zheng H

List of Research Outputs

Zheng H. and Zu Y., Highly Efficient Quenching of Coreactant Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence by Phenolic Compounds , Journal of Physical Chemistry B. American Chemical Society, 2005, 109: 16047-16051.

Researcher : Zheng X

List of Research Outputs

Peng J., Li Z.B., He C.S., Deng S.Z., Xu N.S., Zheng X. and Chen G., Quantum mechanical understanding of field dependence of the apex barrier of a single-wall carbon nanotube , Physical Review B. 2005, 72: 235106-1 to 235106-8.

Wan C.S., Li Z.H., Fan K.N., Zheng X. and Chen G., Effect of temperature on field emission from a micrometer-long single-walled carbon nanotube, Physical Review B. 2006, 73: 165422-1 to 165422-6.

Researcher : Zhi YG

List of Research Outputs

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors , Proceeding of SPIE. 2005, 5940: 5940IL.1401L.7.

Vellaisamy A.L.R., Xu Z., Zhi Y.G., Yu S.C. and Che C.M., Metal-organic pentacene derivative with well ordered morphology for the application of low voltage organic thin film transistors, In: The SPIE society, Proceedings of the SPIE International Society for Opical Engineering. 2005, 5490: 54901L.

Researcher : Zhou C

List of Research Outputs

Zhou C., Chan P.W.H. and Che C.M., Gold(III) porphyrin-catalyzed cycloisomerization of allenones, Organic Letters. 2006, 8: 325-328.

Researcher : Zhu D

List of Research Outputs

Fung Y.S., Zhu D., Li Z. and You T., "Electrophoretic nano-coating" (Chinese Patent No. CN-2005-1654558A) , Chinese Patent Office . 2005.

Fung Y.S., Zhu D., Li Z. and You T., "Electrophoretic nano-coating" (US-2005-0173248A1) , Unitied States Patent Office . 2005.

Fung Y.S., Si S., Zhang Y. and Zhu D., Piezoelectric immunosensors for detection of bacteria, In: (C.A. Grimes, E.C. Dickey and M.V. Pishko, eds), Encyclopedia of Sensors, First Edition . American Scientific Publishers, CA, USA, 2006, 7: 451-462.

Si S., Fung Y.S. and Zhu D., Improvement of piezoelectric crystal sensor for the detection of organic vapors using nanocrystalline TiO₂ films, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 165-171.

Sun H., Zhang Y., Si S., Zhu D. and Fung Y.S., Piezoelectric quartz crystal (PQC) with photochemically deposited nano-sized Ag particles for determining cyanide at trace levels in water, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 925-932.

Zhang Y., Fung Y.S., Sun H., Zhu D. and Yao S., Study of protein adsorption on polymer coatings surface by combining quartz crystal microbalance with electrochemical impedance methods, Sensors and Actuators B. 2005, 108: 933-942.

Researcher : Zhu N

List of Research Outputs

Chan M.C.W., Kui C.F., Cole J.M., Mclntyre G.J., Matsui S., Zhu N. and Tam K.H., Neutron and X-ray diffraction and spectroscopic investigations of intramolecular [C-H^...F-C] contacts in post-metallocene polyolefin catalysts: modeling weak attractive polymer-ligand interactions, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 2607-2619.

Chan M.C.W., Tam K.H., Zhu N., Chiu P. and Matsui S., Synthesis, structures, and olefin polymerization characteristics of Group 4 [Zr{OAr)₂py}Cl₂(D)] (D = O-Donors, CI[HPR₃]) supported by tridentate Pyridine-2,6-bis (aryloxide) Ligands, Organometallics. 2006, 25: 785-792.

Chan W.K., Hui C.S., Man K.K.Y., Cheng K.W., Wong H.L., Zhu N. and Djurisic A., Synthesis and photosensitizing properties of conjugated polymers that contain chlorotricarbonyl bis(phenylimino)acenaphthene rhenium(I) complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. Amsterdam, Elsevier B.V., 2005, 249: 1351-1359.

Che C.M., Zhang J., Zhang R., Huang J.S., Lai T.S., Tsui H.W.M., Zhou X.G., Zhou Z.Y., Zhu N. and Chang C.K., Hydrocarbon oxidation by b-Halogenated dioxoruthenium (VI) porphyrin camplexes: effect of reduction potential (Ru^VI/V) and C-H bond-dissociation energy on rate constants, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 7040-7053.

Cheng C.C., Lo W.Y., Yip S.K., Zhu N., Yuan L. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent Soluble Polynuclear Gold(I) Chalcogenido and Alkynyl Aggregates, Abstract in the Pacifichem 2005 conference, Honolulu, USA, 15-20 December, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. E.C.C. Cheng). 2005.

Ko C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Photochromic and Luminescence Properties of a Versatile 1,10-Phenanthroline Ligand and Its Rhenium Complexes, Pacifichem 2005, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, December 15-20, 2005 (Poster presented by Dr. Chi Chiu Ko). 2005.

Kui C.F., Chui S.Y., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Structures, photoluminescence, and reversible vapoluminescence properties of neutral platinum(II) complexes containing extended pconjugated cyclometalated ligands , Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 8297-8309.

Lam C.F., Yam V.W.W., Wong M.C., Cheng C.C. and Zhu N., Synthesis and characterization of luminescent rhenium(I) -- platinum(II) polypyridine bichromophoric alkynyl-bridged molecular rods, Organometallics. 2005, 24: 4298-4305.

Leung K.Y., Tsui W.M., Huang J.S., Che C.M., Liang J. and Zhu N., Imido Transfer from Bis(imido)ruthenium(VI) Porphyrins to Hydrocarbons: Effect of Imido Substituents, C-H Bond Dissociation Energies, and RuVI/V Reduction Potentials, Journal of the American Chemical Society. Columbus, USA, American Chemical Society, 2005, 127: 16629-16640.

Li C.K., Cheng C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Luminescent phosphinocrown-containing gold (I) complexes: Their syntheses, spectroscopic studies and host-guest chemistry, Inorganica Chimica Acta . 2005, 358: 4191-4200.

Li G.Y., Zhang J., Chan P.W.H., Xu Z., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Enantioselective intramolecular cyclopropanation of cis-alkenes by chiral ruthenium(II) schiff base catalysts and crystal structures of (Schiff base) ruthenium complexes containing carbene, PPh₃, and CO ligands , Organometallics. 2006, 25: 1676-1688.

Li K.L.C., Sun R.W.Y., Kui C.F., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Anticancer cyclometalated [Au^III_m(C^N^C)_mL]ⁿ⁺compounds: Synthesis and cytotoxic properties , Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 5253-5266.

Lo K.K.W., Chung C.K. and Zhu N., Nucleic acid intercalators and avidin probes derived from luminescent cyclometalted Iridium (III) -- dipyridoquinoxaline and -dipyridophenazine complexes , Chemistry - A European Journal. 2006, 12: 1500-1512.

Lo K.W.K., Tsang K.H.K., Hui W.K. and Zhu N., Synthesis, characterization, crystal structure, and electrochemical, protein-binding properties of luminescent rhenium(I) diimine indole complexes , Inorganic Chemistry. 2005, 44: 6100-6110.

Lo K.W.W., Hui W.K., Chung C.K., Chung C.K., Tsang K.H.K., Ng D.C.M., Zhu N. and Cheung K.K., Biological labelling reagents and probes derived from luminescent transition metal polypyridine complexes, Coordination Chemistry Reviews. 2005, 249: 1434-1450.

Lu X.X., Cheng C.C., Zhu N. and Yam V.W.W., Synthesis, luminescence and ion-binding properties of palladium(II) complexes with 1,2-bis[benzo-15-crown-5)phosphino]ehtane (dbcpe), Dalton Transactions. 2006, 1803-1806.

Sham I.H.T., Kwok C.C., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Borazine materials for organic optoelectronic applications, Chemical Communications. Cambridge, U.K., Royal Society of Chemistry, 2005, 3547-3549.

Song L.C., Yu G., Hu Q.M., Che C.M., Zhu N. and Huang J.S., Synthesis and Characterization of the Frst Transition-Metal Fullerene Complexes Containing Bis(eta6-benzene)chromium Moieties, Journal of Organometallic Chemistry. Elsevier, 2006, 691: 787–792.

Wong E.L.M., Sun R.W.Y., Chung P.Y., Lin C.L., Zhu N. and Che C.M., A mixed-valent ruthenium-Oxo Oxalato cluster Na₇[Ru₄(m₃-O)₄(C₂O₄)₆] with potent anti-HIV activities, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 4398-4399.

Wong E.L.M., Fang G.S., Che C.M. and Zhu N., Highly cytotoxic iron(II) complexes with pentadentate pyridyl ligands as a new class of anti-tumor agents, Chemical Communications. 2005, 4578-4580.

Yam V.W.W., Chan H.Y., Wong M.C. and Zhu N., Luminescent platinum(II) terpyridyl complexes: effect of counter ions on solvent-induced aggregation and color changes, Chemistry - A European Journal. 2005, 11: 4535-4543.

Yang D., Zheng B., Gao Q., Gu S. and Zhu N., Enantioselective PhSe-group-transfer tandem radical cyclization reactions catalytzed by a chiral lewis acid, Angewandte Chemie International Edition. 2005, 45: 255-258.

Yip K.T.P., Yang M., Law K.L., Zhu N. and Yang D., Pd(II)-catalyzed enantioselective oxidative tandem cyclization reactions. Synthesis of Indolines through C-N and C-C bond formation, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2006, 128: 3130-3131.

Yip W.P., Yu W.Y., Zhu N. and Che C.M., Alkene cis-Dihydroxylation by [(Me₃tacn)(CF₃CO₂)Ru^VIO₂]CIO₄(Me₃tacn = 1,4,7-Trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane); Structural characterization of [3+2] cycloadducts and kinetic studies, Journal of the American Chemical Society. 2005, 127: 14239-14249.

Researcher : Zu Y

Project Title:	Development of a New Class of Chemosensor Based on the Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence of Metal Complex with Crown Ether Moiety
Investigator(s):	Zu Y, Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2004

Abstract:

To design and synthesize a series of luminescent metal complexes with crown ether moieties; to investigate the photophysical, electrochemical and ECL properties of the new compounds and their responses upon binding with various metal cations.

Project Title:	Development of a New Class of Chemosensor Based on the Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence of Metal Complex with Crown Ether Moiety
Investigator(s):	Zu Y
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Electrochemiluminescent Chemosensor Based on a Novel Mechanism
Investigator(s):	Zu Y
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2005
Completion Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

We plan to develop a new type of electrochemiluminescent (ECL) chemosensor on the basis of quenching effects of the analytes on a novel emission route of the coreactant ECL system. Unlike the conventional luminescence quenching which is due to the electron or energy transfer between the luminophor excited state and the quencher species, the quenching effect used here results from the interception of the ECL intermediate radicals by the analyte molecules. Our recent experimental results revealed that the ECL signal of the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/TPrA system via the low-oxidation-potential (LOP) route is highly sensitive to the presence of reducible species, such as oxygen. In this proposal, detailed investigation of the novel ECL quenching effect will be conducted, and the possibility of utilizing this effect in reducible-species sensing will be explored, aiming at the development of a new type of ECL chemosensor. The key issues of this study are: 1. To study the novel quenching effects of various reducible species on coreactant ECL systems. First, the study will focus on the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/TPrA system. It is generally accepted that the formation of the excited state is via the electron-transfer between [Ru(bpy)3]3+ and highly reducing TPrA free radical generated upon TPrA oxidation. The ECL signal could be quenched by species that is able to intercept the intermediate radical before it joins in the ECL reaction. Longer lifetime of the radical species and higher reaction rate of the radical with quenchers will lead to more efficient quenching. The literature studies of the ECL mechanism of the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/TPrA system have revealed three emission routes, i.e. catalytic route, direct coreactant oxidation route and LOP ECL route. The lifetime of the TPrA free radical may be different in each case. As indicated in our recent work of the oxygen effects on coreactant ECL, the quenching efficiency is much higher for the LOP ECL route as compared with those for the other two routes, suggesting the longer lifetime of TPrA free radical in the LOP ECL process. Therefore, the LOP ECL of the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/TPrA system is expected to be an ideal emission signal sensitive to reducible species in solution. The quenching effects of various reducible species (such as oxygen, metal cations, benzoquinone, et al) on the LOP ECL signal will be investigated. The recent study of the PI’s group has revealed that a strong and reproducible LOP ECL signal of the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/TPrA system can be obtained at a nonionic fluorosurfactant (FSN)-modified gold electrode. This makes it feasible to employ the LOP ECL signal in quantitative analysis. Secondly, we will explore the quenching effects on the coreactant ECL systems other than [Ru(bpy)3]2+/TPrA. For example, other trialkylamines (such as triethylamine and trimethylamine) and some organic acid (such as oxalate) can also be employed as ECL coreactants. The quenching behavior of these systems will be examined and compared with that of the [Ru(bpy)3]2+/TPrA system. This study may lead to a better understanding of the novel quenching process. 2. To develop a new type of ECL chemosensor based on the quenching effect of the analyte on LOP ECL signal. On the basis of the above studies, we will develop practical chemosensors for some analytes of interest using a flow-injection system coupled by an ECL detector. The auto-controllable flow-injection system will be established to achieve good reproducibility of the ECL measurement. Since the modification of the gold electrode with nonionic fluorosurfactant molecules is based on the physical adsorption, it is feasible to clean and modify the electrode in situ. If a microelectrode array is used for the ECL detection, the whole sensor system may be minimized, and a chip-based analytical method may be achieved.

Project Title:	Study on a Novel Type of Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence: Characterization and Applications in Bioanalysis
Investigator(s):	Zu Y
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects
Start Date:	10/2005

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Study on a Novel Type of Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence: Characterization and Applications in Bioanalysis
Investigator(s):	Zu Y, Yam VWW
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2005

Abstract:

The main objective of this project is to investigate the characteristics of a new type of ECL, i.e. low-oxidation-potential (LOP) ECL based on metal complex systems, and explore the strategies of utilizing the LOP ECL signal in bioanalysis.

Project Title:	Nanoparticle-Based Postcolumn Detection Methods for Biothiols Separated by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography or Capillary Electrophoresis
Investigator(s):	Zu Y
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006
Completion Date:	02/2007

Abstract:

Biothiols, including cysteine, homocysteine, and glutathione, are of physiological importance as biological agents and metabolites. Abnormal amounts of these species in human plasma or urine are associated with a number of clinical situations. In this proposed study, we plan to employ gold nanoparticles in the postcolumn detection of the biothiols separated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or capillary electrophoresis (CE). The detection of specific biothiols is often carried out in conjunction with separations. Derivatization with fluorescent reagents is typically used. In recent years, the applications of metal and semiconductor nanoparticles in bioanalysis have been of great interest. The analyte-induced aggregation of gold nanoparticles shifts the surface plasmon absorption peak toward longer wavelength, which forms the basis of colorimetric sensing techniques for a variety of molecules such as DNA, proteins, and metal ions. The interactions of amino acids with gold nanoparticles have also been investigated, and the amino acids possessing additional (besides the a-amine) functional groups such as amine, imidazole, or thiol, could induce the aggregation of gold nanoparticles. Therefore, it is promising to detect biothiols by using gold nanoparticles. Recently, we synthesized gold nanoparticles capped with nonionic fluorosurfactant (Zonel FSN) ligands. Preliminary results indicate that rapid nanoparticle aggregation could be induced by cysteine, homocysteine, or glutathione under different experimental conditions, but not by other amino acids. The unique features of the FSN-capped gold nanoparticles make it attractive to employ these nanoparticles as the HPLC and CE postcolumn reagents. On the one hand, the high selectivity of the method for specific biothiols will significantly reduce background interference; on the other hand, the fast reaction kinetics will minimize sample processing prior to analysis. The key issues of this study are: 1. To synthesize of gold nanoparticles capped with fluorosurfactant ligands. The methods of synthesizing nanoparticles with different size and shape are well documented. We will synthesize gold nanoparticles in the presence of fluorosurfactant species. Due to the strong interaction between gold surface and fluorosurfactant molecules, the obtained gold nanoparticles will be capped by these ligands. Fluorosurfactant-capped nanoparticles with different size and shape will be produced. 2. To investigate the interactions between fluorosurfactant-capped gold nanoparticles and biothiols. Our preliminary study shows significant dependence of the interactions between FSN-capped gold nanoparticles and biothiols on solution pH, ionic strength, and temperature. We will conduct systematic investigations on these effects. The mechanism of amino acid-induced nanoparticle aggregation will also be explored. The mechanistic study may provide new insight into the analyte-induced aggregation processes and lead to strategies of inhibiting (to increase selectivity and suppress interferences) or accelerating (to increase sensitivity) the reactions. 3. To develop methods for HPLC and CE postcolumn detection of the biothiols using the fluorosurfactant-capped gold nanoparticles. Based on above studies, we will explore the strategies of using the nanoparticle-based detection method for biothiols separated by HPLC or CE. The postcolumn detection systems will be designed for the new sensing method. As indicated by our preliminary study, the interactions between nanoparticles and cysteine, homocysteine, and glutathione could be different in kinetics under various conditions. We will optimize the experimental conditions to achieve high sensitivity.

List of Research Outputs

Zheng H. and Zu Y., Highly Efficient Quenching of Coreactant Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence by Phenolic Compounds , Journal of Physical Chemistry B. American Chemical Society, 2005, 109: 16047-16051.

Zu Y. and Li F., Characterization Of The Low-oxidation-potential Electrogenerated Chemiluminescence Of Tris(2,2′-bipyridine)ruthenium(ii) With Tri-n-propylamine As Coreactant , Analytica Chimica Acta. ELSVIER, 2005, 550: 47-52.

Zu Y. and Lu C., Selective detection of cysteine using gold nanoparticles, The ninth world congress on biosensors. 2006.

Researcher : Zuo P

List of Research Outputs

Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S., Zuo P. and Phillips D.L., Using ultrafast time - resolved spectroscopy to investigate photo - deprotection related processes of the p-hydroxphenacyl caged phototrigger compounds, International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A.,December 15-20, 2005.

Phillips D.L., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Zuo P. and Chan W.S., Time - resolved resonance Raman and fluorescence spectroscopy studies of p-hydroxphenacyl caged photorigger compounds , International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (PACIFIC 2005), Houolulu, Hawaii, U.S.A., December 15-20, 2005.

Zuo P., Ma C., Kwok W.M., Chan W.S. and Phillips D.L., Time-resolved resonance Raman and density functional theory study of deprotonation reaction of the triplet state of p-hydroxyacetophenone in water solution, Journal of Organic Chemistry. 2005, 70: 8661-8675.

Zuo P., Time-resolved resonance raman and density functional theory study of the photophysical and photochemical processes involved in the photo-induced deprotection reaction of ther-hydroxyphenacyl acetate phototrigger compound and its r-hydoxyacetophenone model compound (PhD Thesis) . 2005.

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