Cycle/Years
39th cycle [2023-2026]
Contacts
Supervisors
Prof. Fabio Marchetti and Dr. Luca Menichetti
Title of the PhD project
Design and Synthesis of New Transition Metal Complexes for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Applications
Abstract of the PhD project
SPCCT (Spectral Photon Counting Computed Tomography) is an emerging diagnostic technique based on X-rays and operating in the medical field. The possibility to detect and discriminate different atoms based on the energy of their emitted photons (K-edge technique) paves the way to molecular imaging via CT. The development of new specific contrast agents is functional to exploit the full potential of the technique.
The main objective of the present PhD project is to design and synthesize new transition metal (TM)-based complexes for their utilization as contrast agents in SPCCT. We focus on heavy transition metals with relatively low toxicity, cost-effectiveness and non-radioactive properties. Additionally, the project will explore the incorporation within the complexes of suitable bio-active fragments to implement molecular targeting. Potential therapeutic applications will also be assessed.
Academic Fields and Disciplines (SSD), main and secondary
CHIM03
Publications
• C. Zappelli, G. Ciancaleoni, S. Zacchini, F. Marchetti, “Construction of Two-Faced (Hetero)hydrocarbyl Diiron Complexes Mediated by the Interplay of Ligands”, Organometallics, 2023, 42, 615-626.
Poster communications at conferences
• “Cyano-Amino-Allylidene Diiron Complexes”, C. Zappelli, G. Ciancaleoni, A. Purgatorio, G. Pampaloni, S. Zacchini, F. Marchetti. Chemistry for the Future 2023, Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, 28-30 June 2023.
