Core A: Analytical & Medicinal Chemistry
Core A, or the Analytical & Medicinal Chemistry Core, provides assistance to the three projects as well as Core B (Neuroimaging) by offering services and training in analytical chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and formulation. Core A develops methods for the detection of target compounds and their metabolites as well as generates pharmacokinetic data to inform dose selection and demonstrate target compound engagement by using LC-MS (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry). Quality control assessments and synthesis of small molecule probes and novel therapeutics as required by the projects are provided. Core A also works to identify and quantitate biomarkers of seizure activity, neuroinflammation and changes in blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Having a core dedicated to analytical support, probe and reagent design, synthesis and/or verification helps ensure scientific rigor, consistency, efficacy and reproducibility across all components of the CounterACT Center.