STAFF REPORTER
MUSCAT, JUNE 14
Dr Anwaar bint Said al Maqbali, Assistant Professor at Sultan Qaboos University, has conducted a pioneering research project exploring advanced methods in molecular synthesis with promising applications in future drug development. Her study, titled 'Stereoselective Asymmetric Syntheses of Molecules with a 4,5-Dihydro-1H-[1,2,4]-Triazoline Core Possessing an Acetylated Carbohydrate Appendage: Crystal Structure, Spectroscopy, and Pharmacology,' focuses on designing and analysing a new class of biologically active molecules and was among the winning research papers at the 12th National Research Award, organised by the Research and Innovation Authority, in the Culture, Social and Basic Sciences field under the Young Researcher category.
Dr Al Maqbali states the research successfully synthesised a new series of chiral triazoline compounds using a precise chemical process known as 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition. These compounds incorporate carbohydrate-based components, enhancing their potential biological relevance.
Advanced analytical techniques, including high-resolution mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and single-crystal X-ray analysis, were used to confirm the molecular structure and properties of the synthesised compounds, providing detailed insights into their three-dimensional configurations and intermolecular interactions.
The study also demonstrated significant pharmacological potential. Selected compounds showed strong biological activity when tested across 60 cancer cell lines, with some derivatives exhibiting high effectiveness against leukaemia cells. In addition, promising anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties were observed, highlighting the compounds’ potential as versatile therapeutic agents.
Dr Al Maqbali explained that the research findings establish a reliable method for producing triazoline-based compounds with potential applications in drug development. She noted that these molecules show promise as candidates for future therapeutic use. She recommended expanding biological evaluation across a wider range of targets and conducting detailed structure – activity relationship studies to better understand how molecular variations influence their biological performance. She also highlighted the importance of studying the role of stereochemistry in enhancing drug effectiveness, as well as optimising and diversifying the synthesis approach to generate a broader range of compounds.
The research has been published in the journal Molecules. The research team included Dr Al Maqbali, Dr Nawal bint Khamis al Rasbi, Prof Wajdi Micheal Zoghaib, Dr Nallusamy Sivakumar, Dr Craig C Robertson, Prof Musa S Shongwe, Dr Norbert Grzegorzek, and Prof Raid Jamil Abdel-Jalil.
Dr Al Maqbali said, “Winning the National Research Award is a prestigious recognition that validates my research efforts and motivates me to continue contributing impactful, high-quality scientific work that benefits both academia and society.”
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