Stephanie Saey Chem430 F16

Chemistry/Biochemistry Research 430

Fall 2016

Stephanie Saey

Junior Biochemistry and Biopsychology Double Major

Research Times

Mon: 12-2pm Th: 11-1pm

section 01 = 0.25 credit = 4 hours per week.

Proposed Research Project

Curcumin as a Secondary Plant Metabolite*

• Title of Project Subject to Change

General Information

Advisor: Dr. Brad Sturgeon

Other research student collaborators: Nadia Ayala

Proposal

Curcumin, along with its two derivatives, is a secondary plant metabolite of the turmeric herb 'Curcuma Longa'. A review of curcumin studies suggest curcumin has chemotherapeutic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity, among other uses to be discovered. The current research project aims to successfully isolate and purify curcumin and its derivatives from the plant turmeric. With MeOH under reflux, the curcuminoids will be extracted and subsequently subjected to Flash Chromatography for separation. Once the curcuminoids are separated, NMR data collection will take place to compare the chemical properties of each derivative.

Instruments to be used

Distillation Apparatus, Flash Chromotography System, NMR

Research pledge

I, Stephanie Saey, have read the Chem/Bioc 430 course syllabus and understand the general structure and expectations of the research program. The above material was prepared after consultation, and in conjunction with my research advisor, Dr. Brad Sturgeon.