The Ravanfar Group
From Metalloproteins to Biomimetic Breakthroughs
Welcome to the
Ravanfar Research Group
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We study the mechanisms of electron transfer and protective responses against oxidative stress in metalloproteins, while engineering biomimetic scaffolds to address critical challenges in biomedical science. Our research integrates Bioinorganic Chemistry, Soft Matter Chemistry, and advanced Spectroscopy, with applications in biosensing, biocatalysis, and therapeutic development.
With a highly interdisciplinary team, we strive to develop innovative solutions for a broad range of biomedical needs—from disease treatments such as cancer and Alzheimer's to advancements in diagnostics and catalysis.​​
Join us in driving transformative innovations and making a lasting impact through pioneering research.​
Lab Research Highlights
Molecular Mechanism of Metalloproteins
Metalloproteins are essential to a wide range of biological processes, acting as catalysts and regulators in key biochemical reactions. Our research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms of electron transfer and the protective roles these proteins play in defending against oxidative damage. We study a variety of metalloproteins, including heme-containing and copper-containing proteins. This includes, but is not limited to, Cytochrome P450s, which are involved in the metabolism of endogenous compounds and foreign substances, such as drugs. In addition to P450s, we also investigate other metalloproteins to uncover how they maintain their functional integrity under oxidative stress, exploring their broader implications in biocatalysis, biosensing, and therapeutic applications.
Bio-inspired Catalysis Using Heme-containing Proteins
Proteins, with their remarkable catalytic efficiency and selectivity, drive essential biological processes that are foundational to life. Their wide-ranging applications extend into fields such as industrial production, pharmaceutical synthesis, environmental protection, and energy. Among these, metalloenzymes, a class of proteins that incorporate metal ions, stand out for their ability to catalyze complex biochemical transformations. Heme-containing metalloenzymes, for example, are involved in critical oxidative reactions and electron transfer processes, making them indispensable for functions like C–H bond activation and large-scale biocatalysis.
Despite their potential, many proteins, including metalloenzymes, are constrained by the need to operate under mild conditions to maintain their structural integrity. This limits their industrial utility due to challenges in stability, recovery, and reusability. Our lab focuses on designing and developing new materials and approaches to stabilize these proteins, particularly metalloenzymes, in non-native environments while preserving their activity. By doing so, we aim to unlock their full potential for biomedical, food, and pharmaceutical applications.
Targeted Delivery and Controlled Release
We are dedicated to pioneering advancements in the field of targeted delivery and controlled release. These critical areas hold immense potential for revolutionizing drug delivery strategies. Our focus lies in fabricating highly sophisticated scaffolds with precise and controllable architectures that facilitate the targeted release of therapeutic agents. Through innovative techniques such as co-crystallization, metal–organic frameworks and drop-based microfluidics, we develop bioresponsive platforms that are finely tuned to specific stimuli, such as enzymes. By harnessing these cutting-edge technologies, we aim to unlock new avenues for enhanced drug efficacy, reduced side effects, and improved patient outcomes. Our commitment to pushing the boundaries of targeted delivery and controlled release aligns seamlessly with our overarching mission to advance scientific knowledge and contribute to transformative breakthroughs in healthcare.
Selected Publications
Our lab stands at the intersection of multiple disciplines, leveraging advanced instrumentation and state-of-the-art facilities on campus to drive impactful research. We focus on a broad range of interdisciplinary areas, from developing innovative materials and sensors to understanding the complexities of human diseases. By integrating expertise in chemistry, biology, engineering, and other fields, we address some of society's most critical challenges. Our collaborative environment motivates innovation and creativity, enabling us to explore and solve problems with a comprehensive approach that advances both scientific knowledge and real-world applications.
