Derrick Swartz

Chemistry Lab Coordinator

dswartz@daemen.edu

Education

  • A.A.S. Criminal Justice, Erie Community College North
  • B.S. Forensic Chemistry, State University College at Buffalo
  • B.A. Chemistry (Minor: Safety) State University College at Buffalo
  • M.S. Chemistry, Clarkson University

Research & Teaching Interests

  • I am particularly interested in understanding how structure relates to function in biological molecules (proteins). The molecular understanding of how, where and the types of ligands that a protein can bind and the conformational changes (mechanisms) that take place within the protein, hence altering the function of the protein is of great importance. I am interested in studying the LS and LIV transport proteins that are found in E.coil. These two proteins have been used as models structurally for many neurological receptors in humans such as; The N-methyl-D-Aspartate Receptor (learning, memory, alcohol sensitivity and epilepsy), the Atrial Natriuretic Peptide Clearance Receptor (Heart, Brain and Kidney) and The Metabotropic Glutamate Receptor (Taste). Using fluorescence spectroscopy and second derivative UV spectroscopy it is possible to monitor changes due to intrinsic probes (Tip and Tyr) that naturally exist within the protein. Finally, there is a direct correlation with protein denaturant concentration needed to unfold a protein and the emitting intensity. Through mathematical analysis, thermodynamic information can be obtained.

Teaching Activities

  • General Chemistry 110 Lab
  • General Chemistry 111 Lab
  • Bioorganic Chemistry Lab
  • General Chemistry 110 (Class) Forensic Science

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