Development of Interdisciplinary SynZyme CURE: A Bridge between Organic Synthesis, Protein Biochemistry, and Drug Discovery

Abstract

The SynZyme Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) was developed to immerse students in an interdisciplinary semester-long project integrating organic synthesis and enzyme biochemistry within the context of early stage drug development. Embedded within a bioinstrumental chemistry course, this CURE also emphasizes the practical use of instrumentation in chemical and biochemical research. Eight undergraduate students synthesized a series of five novel triazole-based compounds and performed detailed molecular characterization to confirm purity and identity. Students then performed ADMET analysis and molecular docking before evaluating the inhibitory activity of the compounds against two target bacterial protein tyrosine phosphatases. Student Assessment of their Learning Gains (SALG), along with the Undergraduate Research Student Self-Assessment (URSSA) instrument, was used to evaluate the gains and experiences of the participants. Data revealed increased confidence in conducting independent research and contributing meaningfully to a research project. It also highlights the potential to promote a deeper understanding, skill development, and research competency among undergraduate students. Overall, the SynZyme CURE demonstrates the effectiveness of course-based research in fostering scientific identity, strengthening interdisciplinary literacy, and preparing undergraduates for real-world research environments.