The Ahn Group Research Interests

 Professor Ahn’s research focuses on (1) molecular recognition and sensing, (2) nano/bio-functional materials, and (3) catalytic asymmetric synthesis. A central theme of his research program involves the understanding of molecular interactions in the recognition and catalysis processes, the design and synthesis of nano/bio-functional molecules, and, ultimately, the development of novel functional molecules of practical utility.

 His research on the molecular recognition and sensing is focused on the development of novel artificial receptors/molecular sensors for the selective recognition/sensing of biogenic amines, carboxylates, and inorganic anions of clinical interest. In this context, unique artificial receptors/ionophores have been developed, including tripodal oxazoline receptors (BTOs) and trifluoroacetylcarboxanilides (TFACAs). Studies on the molecular recognition with the BTOs and their derivatives have elucidated novel chiral molecular interactions, such as enantio-discrimination in a C₃-symmetric environment and through three-center two-hydrogen bonding. He also has developed a novel anion recognition motif (TFACA), with which selective fluorescence, colorimetric, and electrochemical sensing of cyanide, carboxylates, and amino carboxylates have been developed. Further applications of the novel binding motif to nanoparticle/nanowire/nanosome-based molecular/polymeric sensors for biologically important molecules are under way.

His research on the nano/bio-functional molecules is focused on the development of nanobiosensors for early diagnosis of disease and bioconjugated molecules of therapeutic activity. A collaborative project supported by the Korea Health Industry Development Institute is undergoing to develop nanowire-based field-effect transistors for the ultra-sensitive diagnosis of cancer markers. Also, a collaborative project selected as the POSTECH Important Research Area is undergoing to develop conjugated molecules between protein and metal complex as novel therapeutic materials for the ischemic heart disease.

His research on the catalytic asymmetric synthesis is focused on the development of several chiral ligands and corresponding catalysts. Novel ferrocene-based chiral oxazolinyl ligands have been developed and successfully used for the metal-catalyzed asymmetric reactions such as allylic substitution and cyclopropanation. Recently, his research interest has moved to novel pincer complexes, which are precursors for air- and moisture-stable and robust organometallic catalysts for the Heck and other coupling reactions.  

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