14 january 2015 science - city university of hong kong 1st... · 3 t he 1st bch...

14 JANUARY 2015

SCIENCE!Embrace an Innovative Future

2

Welcome

1ST BCH STUDENTS’ CONFERENCE

SCIENCE! EMBRACE AN INNOVATIVE FUTURE

14 JANUARY 2015 CITY UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG

Schedule-at-a-Glance

Keynote Lecture

Abstracts Oral

Poster

Page 3

Page 4

Page 5

Page 6 – 13

Page 14 – 39

ChairpersonIstván T. HORVÁTH

Faculty MembersY W LAM • Peggy LO • Margaret B. MURPHY •Andy SIU • Alex WONG •Zhengtao XU

Student MembersWing Tung LEE • Man Hei CHOY • Man King SUEN • Suiya WU •Ka Shun TSO • Kit Yue KWAN •Wing Hin SE

SecretaryGrace NG

Author Index Page 40

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The 1st BCH Students’ Conference in CityU will be hosted by the Department of Biology and

Chemistry on 14 January 2015 (Wednesday) at City University of Hong Kong.

The Conference is one of the major events for BCH students. It brings BCH’s postgraduatestudents, undergraduates, academics and researchers together with the objective of reflectingupon current advancements in all aspects of chemistry, biology and environmental sciences,exchanging research ideas and fostering collaboration and networking. There will be an oralpresentation session and a poster presentation session by BCH postgraduate students.

This inaugural year, a keynote lecture will be presented by Prof. Y. M. Dennis LO, Chairman of theDepartment of Chemical Pathology, Director of the Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences andAssociate Dean (Research) of the Faculty of Medicine at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, apioneer in the field of fetal health and development who has developed numerous methods fornon-invasive prenatal diagnosis of developmental disorders.

We look forward to your support and participation.Organizing CommitteeThe 1st BCH Students’ Conference

WELCOME

4SCHEDULE -at-a-GLANCE

Poster Mounting

Registration

Opening Ceremony

Student Oral Presentations ( 1 )

Keynote Lecture

Poster Session & Lunch

Tea Reception

Student Oral Presentations ( 2 )

Closing Ceremony

08:30 @4/F Purple Zone, Academic 1

09:00 @LT-10, Academic 1


09:45 @LT-10, Academic 1Biology Chemistry Environmental Science





15:45 @LT-10, Academic 1Biology Chemistry Environmental Science

Music Performance16:30 @LT-10, Academic 1

5Keynote Lecture

Non-invasive prenatal diagnosis:

from dream to realityFor many years, the prenatal testing of the DNA of a fetus can only be performed using invasive methods

such as amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling. These methods are associated with a small, but

definite risk of harming the fetus. Hence, for the last 40 years, many researchers and clinicians around the

world have been dreaming about the possibility of performing non-invasive prenatal diagnosis. In 1997,

my group has shown, for the first time, that a fetus would release its DNA into the cell-free fraction, i.e.,

plasma of the mother’s blood. We have since then shown that such cell-free fetal DNA in maternal plasma

can be used for the non-invasive prenatal testing of many genetic and chromosomal disorders, including

sex-linked diseases, blood group status and Down syndrome. This technology has now been introduced

into clinical practice over 50 countries around the world. My group has further shown recently that this

technology can be used for fetal whole genome and methylome sequencing. Such developments have

opened up new possibilities but have also raised social, ethical and legal issues which should be explored

by all stakeholders.

Prof. Y. M. Dennis LOChairman, Department of

Chemical Pathology

Director, Li Ka Shing

Institute of Health Sciences

Associate Dean

(Research),

Faculty of Medicine

The Chinese University of

Hong Kong

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Presentation

O1- OXIDATION OF ASCORBIC ACID BY A (SALEN)RUTHENIUM(VI)NITRIDO COMPLEX IN AQUEOUS SOLUTION

The oxidation of ascorbic acid (H2A) by

[RuVI(N)(salchda)(MeOH)]+ (salchda =

N,N’-bis(salicylidene)-o-

cyclohexyldiamine dianion) has been

studied in aqueous acidic solutions from

pH range of 1 to 6 under argon

atmosphere.

Do you know what is theyoungest equipment in BCHlab?

Our Bruker 600MHz & 300MHz Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometers (NMR) with a total cost HK$ 6.5 million, are the youngest major equipment. They were installed in April 2014.

Oral

Qian Wang1, Wai-Lun Man1,William W. Y. Lam1 and Tai-Chu Lau1

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong

The reaction has the following stoichiometry: 2[RuVI(N)] + 3H2A →

2[RuIII(NH2‒HA)]+ + A. Mechanisms involving HAT/N‒rebound at low pH (≤

2) and nucleophilic attack at the nitride at high pH (≥ 5) are proposed.

9:45 - 10:00 AM

Interesting!facts

7

Presentation

O2- OCCURRENCE AND FATE OF ENDOGENOUS STERIOD HORMONES, ALKYLPHENOLETHOXYLATES, BISPHENOL A AND PHTHALATES IN MUNICIPAL SEWAGE TREATMENTSYSTEM AND EVALUATION OF THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Steroid hormones, alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs) and phthalic acid esters (PAEs) are highly concerned endocrine disrupting chemicals

(EDCs), which can interfere with endocrine function in organism at low concentrations and are emerging as a major concern for water

quality. The occurrence, distribution behavior, removal rate and fate of 33 target EDCs in sewage treatment plants (STPs) with various

treatment facilities were investigated. Estriol (E1), nonylphenol-di-ethoxylate (NP2EO) and Diethyl Phthalate (DEP) were dominant for

each group in the influent samples with the concentration ranging 11.02-33.05, 747-3945 and 445.3-4635 ng/L, respectively. Conversely,

progesterone (PGR), nonylphenol-mono-ethoxylate (NP1EO) and bis (2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate (DEHP) were most abundant in dewatered

sludge with concentration ranging 0.946-237, 75.35-19743 and 4310-37016 ng/g. This difference was attribute to the discrepancy of

chemical properties and the distribution coefficient (Kd) of PAEs was found in positive correlation to their log Kow value. The removal rates

of primary sedimentation and disinfection approaches were lower than 40% for most chemicals. Activated sludge received greater than 80%

removal rate to more than two-thirds compounds. Reverse osmosis could 100% remove majority of these pollutants. The removal rate

cannot be simply taken as detoxifying process because some intermediate products could be even more toxic and enough reaction time is

required to allow fully degradation. Mass balance results suggested that steroid hormones were usually removed through biological

degradation, while quite a few APEOs and PAEs also adhere to the sludge phase. Thus, the priority pollutants varied between the

environmental matrices. Victoria harbor, receiving most STP effluent and waste discharge in Hong Kong, was in media to high estrogenic

risk potential, which was mainly contributed by E1 and E2. High concentration of NPEOs and DEHP in sludge deserve concerns.

Oral

Qian Wu1,2, James CW Lam2, Karen Ying Kwok2 and Paul KS Lam1,2

10:00 - 10:15 AM

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong2State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong

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Presentation

O3- TETRANUCLEAR [2×2] GRID TYPE COMPLEXES DERIVEDBY SELF-ASSEMBLY FROM CHIRAL C1-ASYMMETRIC PYRIDINEIMINE LIGANDS

By the self-assembly of Cu(II) and Zn(II) with chiral C1 symmetric pyridine

ligands HL1 and HL2 in methanol, tetranuclear complexes are formed. And

the complexes were characterized by ESI-MS, elemental analysis, NMR and

XRD. X-ray crystal structures shows that [2×2] grid type tetranuclear

complexes are formed. Cu(II) centers are in octahedral coordination

geometry with L1. The Zn(II) centers are in octahedral coordination

geometry with alternate Δ- and Δ- configuration. One ClO4- anion and one

MeOH coordinated with Δ-configured Zn(II) center in cis-position. The

recognition property of chiral Zn(II) grid complex to 1,2-

Diaminocyclohexane enantiomers was also explored.

Do you know what is the mostpopular major equipment inBCH lab?

UV-Vis Spectrophotometer is considered as the most popular equipment based on the booking records. By the way, our mass Spectrometers (LC-MS & GC-MS) need maintenance most frequently.

Oral

Lu-Wei Li1, Kiu-Chor Sham1, Shek-Man Yiu1 and Hoi-Lun Kwong1

10:15 - 10:30 AM


Interesting!facts

9

Presentation

O4- DISTRIBUTION OF POLYBROMINATED DIPHENYL ETHERS(PBDEs) IN AQUATIC SEDIMENTS AND THEIR POTENTIAL TODEGRADE BDE-153 UNDER ANAEROBIC CONDITION

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a group of newly emerged toxic and persistent organic pollutants (POPs), are likely to

accumulate in sediments when disposed to the environment, especially in aquatic areas, which are thought to be their final sinks. To know

more about the levels and behaviors of PBDEs in aquatic sediments, four types of sediments collected from freshwater pond, mangrove,

mudflat and open sea in Hong Kong SAR were analyzed, and their potentials to degrade BDE-153, a common congener were also

investigated. It was found that (i) deca-BDE (BDE-209) was the most dominant congener in all sediments, and the highest concentration

(34 ng g-1) was found in mangrove sediment; (ii) freshwater pond sediment had the highest concentration of total PBDEs consisting of

seven PBDE congeners (Σ7PBDE, BDE-28, -47, -99, -100, -153, -154 and -183) while marine sediment had the lowest value; (iii) the

composition profile of these seven congeners varied among sediments but BDE -47, -99 and -153 were the most dominant ones in all

sediments; (vi) the concentration of BDE-209 in sediment significantly related to particle size (PS) but the relationship between Σ7PBDE

and PS was insignificant; (v) the level of Σ7PBDE correlated well with total organic matter (TOM) but very poor correlation was found

between BDE-209 and TOM; (vi) mangrove and mudflat sediment slurries showed higher potential in degrading BDE-153 than marine

and freshwater sediment slurries; the respective degradation percentages were 66.6%, 65.2%, 58.1% and 58.6% at the end of 90-days

anaerobic incubation. These preliminary findings revealed that all sediments in our regions, irrespective to the habitat types, were

contaminated with PBDEs but at different degrees with different sources. Among the four sediment types, the indigenous microorganisms

in mangrove and mudflat sediments had higher potential to degrade PBDEs under anaerobic conditions that deserve further research work.

Oral

Ying Pan1 and Nora F. Y. Tam1

10:30 - 10:45 AM


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Presentation

O5- A MITOCHONDRIAL-TARGETABLE, REDUCTANT-RESISTANT AND METAL-FREE NEAR-INFRARED FLUORESCENTSENSOR FOR IMAGING OF BIOLOGICAL NITROXYL

Nitroxyl (HNO) is a one-electron reduced and protonated derivative of nitric oxide (NO) and has characteristic

biological and pharmacological effects distinct from those of NO. However, studies of its biosynthesis and activities

are restricted by the lack of versatile HNO detection methods applicable to living cells. Here, we report the first

mitochondrial-targetable, metal free and reductant-resistant HNO imaging near-infrared probe available for use in

living cells, Mito-DHX. It consists of a dihydroxanthene(DHX) moiety as the fluorophore, diphenylphosphinobenzoyl

group as reaction group, which forms an aza-ylide upon reaction with HNO and positive indolenium as a

mitochondrial targeting group. Intramolecular attack of the aza-ylide on the ester carbonyl group releases a fluorescent

dihydroxanethene derivative. Mito-DHX showed 75-fold fluoresence turn-on in cuvettes and high selectivity for HNO

in the presence of various biologically relevant reductants, such as glutathione and ascorbate, in comparison with

previous HNO probes. We show that Mito-DHX preferentially targets mitochondria, can detect not only HNO

enzymatically generated in the horseradish peroxidase-hydroxylamine system in vitro but also intracellular HNO

release from Angeli’s salt in living cells. These results suggest that Mito-DHX is suitable for detection of HNO in

living cells.

Oral

Yi Tan1, Ruochuan Liu1, Huatang Zhang1, Yusheng Xie1, Ganchao Chen1, Ping Wang1 and Hongyan Sun1

10:45 – 11:00 AM


Do you know what is thesmallest animal that can befound in BCH department?

The brine shrimp larvae (Artemia sp.; 0.5 mm in length), the most common live feed for small marine animals.

Interesting!facts

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Presentation

O6- THE LARVAE OF CONGENERIC GASTROPODS SHOWEDDIFFERENTIAL RESPONSES TO THE COMBINED EFFECTS OFOCEAN ACIDIFICATION, TEMPERATURE AND SALINITY

Ocean acidification cause profound negative ecological shifts on marine organisms. This study

compared the tolerance and physiological responses of the larvae of two congeneric gastropods, the

intertidal Nassarius festivus and subtidal Nassarius conoidalis, to the combined effects of ocean

acidification, varying temperature and salinity. Results showed that mortality increased with pCO2

and temperature, but reduced at higher salinity for both species, with higher mortality being obtained

for N. conoidalis. Respiration rate of the larvae increased with temperature and pCO2 level for both

species, with a larger percentage increase for N. conoidalis. Larval swimming speed increased with

temperature and salinity for both species whereas higher pCO2 reduced swimming speed in N.

conoidalis but not N. festivus, indicating that the subtidal congeneric species is more sensitive to the

combined effects of these stressors. This provided experimental evidence that a more acidified world

will present a greater threat to subtidal communities in future.

Oral

Haoyu Zhang1, S. G. Cheung1,2 and Paul K. S. Shin1,2

3:45 - 4:00 PM

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong2State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong

12

Presentation

O7- TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS FOR THE STUDY OF ZEBRAFISHHEART REGENERATION

Despite the huge progress in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, heart failure still remains the leading cause of death

worldwide. Among all model organisms, zebrafish is the most widely used for the study of heart regeneration and different

methods have been developed to create various types of wounds in zebrafish heart which includes physical amputation of

ventricular, the infliction of localized necrosis by snap freezing, induction of cardiomyocyte-specific killing by genetic

ablation and recent gentle technique that scratches pericardial surface and through-and-through puncture of the ventricle,

have been introduced (1). All these treatments trigger a regeneration programme in zebrafish hearts and molecular, cellular

and anatomical events during regeneration have been characterised in detail but little is known about the physiological

consequences of zebrafish to cardiac injuries and recovery. In this study, we established procedures for (A) the creation of

wounds at reproducible locations by puncturing the ventricle and of consistent size in zebrafish heart, (B) the convenient

and accurate quantitation of these wounds based on contrast enhanced micro-computed tomography and (C) the recording

of physiological responses to the wound, especially during the immediate aftermath of the damage. The combination of

these three technical innovations allows us to observe, for the first time, how the electrophysiology of the zebrafish heart

responded in real time when punctured. We could also control the degree of heart injuries, and compare the subsequent

regeneration parameters that were technically cumbersome. Our new experimental paradigm will likely accelerate the

research on zebrafish regeneration.

Oral

Fatemeh Babaei1, Chichi Liu2, Kai-hung Fung3, Shuk Han Cheng2 and Yun Wah Lam1

4:00 - 4:15 PM

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong2Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong 3Radiology Department, Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, Hong Kong

Do you know how manypostgraduate theses have beensubmitted by BCH studentssince the establishment of ourdepartment?

There are 347 theses with a total of 67,354 pages.

Interesting!facts

13

Presentation

O8- NOVEL CORE-SHELL-SHELL UPCONVERSIONNANOPARTICLES WITH MINIMIZED OVERHEATING EFFECTFOR PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY OF CANCER

Upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) that are doped with rare earth elements especially lanthanides convert near infrared (NIR) to

visible or even ultraviolet light by nonlinear absorption. The emission of UCNPs can be used in biomedical applications for bioimaging

and therapy. In photodynamic therapy (PDT) using UCNPs, the nanoparticles are conjugated with a photosensitizers (PS), and the visible

light emission of UCNPs subsequently activates the PS to generate singlet oxygen to kill cancer cells. The conventional Yb-sensitized

UCNPs have low penetration depth as well as overheating effect under 980 nm irradiation. In this project, we use novel core-shell-shell

UCNPs with the excitation in the medical spectrum window to dramatically decrease the overheating effect. Chlorin e6 (Ce6) was used

as an efficient PS, the absorbance of which at 660 nm matches well with the emission of UCNPs. The upconversion luminescence of

Ce6-loaded nanoparticles significantly decreased at 660 nm, confirming the energy transfer efficiency. The ability of singlet oxygen

generation was measured to obtain the optimal loading of PS on UCNPs. The cell viabilities in the presence of the nanoconstructe with

and without irradiation were measured to determine the PDT effect. Finally, the nanoparticles in the cells were visualized by confocal

microscopy. These results illustrate that the Ce6-conjugated UCNPs are promising to be further developed as an effective PDT agent

against cancer.

Oral

Fujin Ai1, Xiaoman Zhang1 and Guangyu Zhu1

4:15 - 4:30 PM


14PosterAbstractsP1- Synthesis, Characterization and Photophysical Studies of Isocyanoborato Bis-(2-phenylpyridyl) Iridium(III) Complexes

Bis-cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes are commonly applied as organic light emitting device (OLED), cell imagining due to

the advantages in photophysical properties including high luminescence quantum yields and long-lived emission lifetime. The

dicyano bis-cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes have been demonstrated to have blue light emitting property with

luminescence quantum yield up to 80%; however modification of their photophysical properties are very limited. Herein, a new

strategy for modifying photophysical properties based on the Lewis acid base interaction between cyanide ligand and borane is

described.

P2- Nanoneedle-Assisted Delivery of Site-Selective Peptide-Functionalized DNA Nanocage forTargeting Mitochondria and Nuclei

Self-assembled of 3D DNA nanostructures have been identified as one of the most promising candidates for biomedical

applications due to their low cytotoxicity and immunogenicity, in addition to a great stability towards nuclease susceptibility. To

fulfill one of the most important criteria as a drug-delivery vehicle for transporting the loaded/encapsulated drug molecules to

specific sites for action and eventually release drugs. 3D DNA nano-objects must have the capability to target and localize in

specific subcellular organelles selectively. We demonstrate this approach by Site-Selective Peptide-Functionalized DNA

Nanocages for organelles targeting assisting by a new delivery technology based on functionalized vertical silicon nanoneedle to

transfer intact 3D DNA nanocages directly to the cytoplasm without endocytosis.


Chan Kin Cheung1, Chu Wing Kin1, and Ko Chi Chiu1

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong2Key Laboratory of Biochip Technology Biotech and Health Centre Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of HongKong Shenzhen , China , 518057

Miu Shan Chan1 and Pik Kwan Lo1,2

GuessWho?

“I was wearing my PhD gown and taking a photo in the main entrance of McGill University under 0 °C. Will

you try?” – Dr. Peggy Lo

15PosterAbstracts

P4- Mechanistic Characteristics of Metal-Assisted Chemical Etching in GaAs

Due to the unique physical properties, various GaAs micro- and nano-structures have attracted increasing research attentions for many technical applications such as solar cells, light

emitting diodes and field-effect transistors. In this regard, numerous fabrication techniques have been explored and among all, metal-assisted chemical etching is successfully applied to

GaAs in order to achieve cost-effective, large-scale and complex structures. However, the detail explanations as well as the corresponding etching mechanism have not been reported till

now or simply relied on the hole injection model of Si in order to explain the phenomenon. In this work, we perform a more systematic study to further explore and assess the etching

phenomenon of GaAs employing the Au catalyst and the [KMnO4/H2SO4] etch system. It is revealed that the anisotropic etching behavior of GaAs is predominantly due to the Au induced

surface defects at the Au/GaAs interface, which makes the particular area more prone to oxidation and thus results in the simple directional wet etching; for that reason, more anisotropic

etch is obtained for the Au pattern with higher edge-to-surface-area ratio. All these findings not only offer additional insight into the MacEtch process of GaAs, but also provide essential

information of different etching parameters in manipulating this anisotropic wet etching to achieve the fabrication of complex GaAs structures for technological applications.

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong2Department of Physics and Materials Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong3Cultivation Base for State Key Laboratory, Qingdao University, Qingdao, People’s Republic of China4Shenzhen Research Institute, City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, People’s Republic of China

Ho-Yuen Cheung1, Hao Lin2, Fei Xiu2,4, Fengyun Wang3, SenPo Yip2,4, Jonny C. Ho1 and Chun-Yuen Wong1

P3- Heterogenization of Shvo’s Catalyst by Covalent Grafting on Silica Gel

Shvo’s catalyst is a very efficient homogeneous catalyst used in various hydrogen transfer reactions involved

in biomass conversion under mild conditions1-4. However, recovery of the catalyst remains a big problem.

Heterogenization may be one possible way to overcome this problem. Herein we try to develop heterogenized

analogues of Shvo’s catalyst for biomass conversion. Triethoxysilyl-functionalized cyclopentadienone

ligand(8a) has been synthesized and characterized and used to prepare the corresponding monoruthenium (9a)

and diruthenium (10a) analogues of Shvo’s catalyst. Both complexes were characterized and tested for

transfer hydrogenation in biomass conversion. Covalent grafting of them on to silica gel obtaining di- and

tetra-grafted analogues is now in progress.

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Dongmei He1 and István T. Horváth1

16PosterAbstracts

Interesting!factsDo you know what is the topicof the first MPhil thesis fromBCH department?

Analysis of organophosphoruspesticides in vegetables

Leung Kim-hung 1994

P5- A General Colorimetric Method for Detecting Protease Activity Based on Peptide-InducedGold Nanoparticle Aggregation

Ubiquitous in all living organisms, proteases play a significant role in numerous metabolic and physiological processes, including digestion,

cell signaling, cell differentiation, immunological defence, apoptosis, and blood coagulation. Different research groups have developed

various methods for protease detection, including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), surface-enhanced Raman Scattering

(SERS), and the commonly reported fluorescence-based methods. Colorimetric assays based on gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) aggregation

have recently attracted considerable interests in diagnostic applications due to their simplicity, versatility, and comparable sensitivity with the

aforementioned methods. Herein, we report a general colorimetric method for detecting protease based on selectively cleavage of peptide by

specific enzyme, which lead to aggregation of Au NPs.


Ganchao Chen1, Yusheng Xie1, Huatang Zhang1, Ping Wang1, Hon-Yeung Cheung1, MengsuYang1 and Hongyan Sun1

P6- Two-Photon Responsive Three-Dimensional DNA Nanostructures

Since their advent, nanomaterials have always attracted tremendous research interest. Recently, they have also found substantial applications

in biological and medicinal sciences. Among their building blocks, DNA strand has emerged as a powerful one in self-assembly of complex

nanostructures due to its high programmability and predictability arising from the specific and loyal Watson-Crick pairing of adenine with

thymine, guanine with cytosine. Advanced three-dimensional nanostructures built from DNA strands, such as DNA nanotubes, have

demonstrated great potential in selective encapsulation and responsive release of cargos. Meanwhile, the induction of morphological or

conformational changes of those nanostructures usually could be counted on some manipulation methods, such as pH adjustment, strand

displacement or high-energy excitation. Here, we demonstrated the design and creation of advanced 3D DNA nanostructures and their

induced conformational or morphological change behaviors. We hope our nanotools could find potential biomedical applications such as drug

delivery and controlled release of drugs.


Ziwen Dai1 and Pik Kwan Lo1

17PosterAbstracts

P8- Photo-Triggered Traceless Staudinger Ligation and Its Applications

The Staudinger ligation has been developed for nearly 15 years. Like the click

reaction, it becomes a useful bio-orthogonal method for the preparation of

bioconjugates and as a powerful tool in chemical biology, material sciences, etc.

Recently, we develop a phototriggered traceless Staudinger ligation. In this work, we

present the synthesis and characterization of compound anthracene-CH2-

PPh2CH2SCOCH3. Under UV-irradiation, this compound could generate

PPh2CH2SCOCH3, which then reacts with 2-azido-Nbenzylacetamide by a traceless

Staudinger ligation to form 2-acetamido-N-benzylacetamide with an overall yield

from 37% to 50%. In order to avoid by-reaction, a suitable base or basic buffer is

needed to maintain the pH at proper range.


Peng HU1, Michael Hon-Wah LAM1

P7- Efficient Cyclic Carbonate Synthesis from CO2 and Epoxides Catalyzed by Binuclear Zinc(II)-Schiff Base Complexes

The use of carbon dioxide as a non-toxic C1 building block has been extensively studied due to its potentially inexpensive and sustainable nature. The efficient fixation of

CO2 into valuable chemical feedstock under mild conditions is of topical interest, and transition metalorganic complexes offer great promise as effective, robust and

versatile catalysts for such processes. In this study, a series of binuclear Zn-Schiff base complexes supported by various backbone moieties was prepared and employed as

catalysts for coupling reactions using CO2. The molecular structures of selected derivatives were determined by X-ray crystallography. In combination with their

mononuclear analogues, the binuclear complexes have been investigated as catalysts for cyclic carbonate synthesis from coupling of CO2 with epoxides under mild

conditions. The nature of the backbone moiety is observed to substantially influence catalytic efficiency, and suitably substituted binuclear complexes display high

activities. DFT calculations have been performed to probe the relationship between molecular structure and catalytic behavior, and a plausible catalytic mechanism is

proposed.


Shixiong He1, Shek-Man Yiu1 and Michael C. W. Chan1

18PosterAbstracts

P9- Synthesis and Reactivity of Ruthenium Guanidine Complexes

Nitric oxide (NO) is vital for the maintenance of physiological functions in animals. It is biologically produced from L-arginine

by nitric oxide synthase. Hydroxyguanidine is the active functional group found on the side chain of L-arginine that involved in

the production of NO. It is of great interest to disclose the mechanism of NO-generation in vivo. To explore the coordination

chemistry and reactivity of guanidine to transition metal centers may aid the mechanistic study of NO production in animals. In

this presentation, the preparation of ruthenium guanidine complexes will be reported, and their reactivity towards oxidation will

be discussed.

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong2College of Chemistry and Environmental Engineering, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, HuBei, PR China

Kwok-Wa Ip1, Jing Xiang1,2, Li Ma1, and Tai-Chu Lau1

GuessWho?

“I majored in biochemistry at HKU, at that time there were only 9 students

in the programme. We were once students like you, struggled with the

same challenges you are facing now.” – Dr. Yun Lam

P10- Synthesis of Novel Fluorous Ethers

The fluorous biphasic concept was based on the attachment of long perfluoroalkyl chains to reagents and catalysts. By increasing

the fluorine content of a fluorous compound one could increase its solubility in fluorous solvents as well as its preferential

partition to the fluorous phase of a biphasic system result in efficient product separation. The use of the perfluoro-tertbutoxy

fluorous ponytails has been shown to provide high enough fluorine content to achieve high fluorous solubility and partition. At

the same time, the perfluoro-tert-butoxy fluorous ponytails will significantly lower the toxicity problem associated with

traditional perfluoroalkyl chains.

A number of novel fluorous ethers have been synthesized and characterized. They contained the first generation perfluoro-tert-

butoxy (CF3)3CO-) group and the short, linear perfluorobutyl (CF3CF2CF2CF2) group. A combination of these two moieties

should provide satisfactory fluorous partition properties and a more environment-friendly alternative to the traditional long chain

perfluoroalkyl approach.


Edwin Law1 and István T. Horváth1

19PosterAbstracts

P11- Phosphorogenic Bioorthogonal Probes Derived from Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Polypyridine Complexes

We report the synthesis, characterization, photophysical behavior, and biological properties of a new class of phosphorogenic bioorthogonal probes derived from

cyclometalated iridium(III) polypyridine complexes conjugated with a nitrone moiety. The complexes were weakly emissive due to a non-radiative deactivation process of

the excited state. Also, the reactivity of the nitrone moiety was enhanced after modification with the cationic iridium(III) polypyridine unit. After reaction with a model

substrate (1R,8S,9s)-bicyclo[6.1.0]non-4-yn-9-ylmethanol (BCN-OH), these complexes displayed substantial emission enhancement. These complexes were used to label

modified proteins selectively in living HeLa cells.


Lawrence Cho-Cheung Lee1, Jonathan Chun-Wai Lau1, Hua-Wei Liu1, and Kenneth Kam-Wing Lo1

P12- Mitochondria-Targeting Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) Complexes with Tunable Photodynamic Activity

A series of water-soluble phosphorescent cyclometalated iridium(III)

polypyridine poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) complexes as a new class

of biological reagents with potential photodynamic therapeutic

activity has been reported. The quantum yields for singlet oxygen

production of the complexes in aerated DMSO were found to be

strongly dependent on the excited-state lifetimes of the complexes,

which can be altered using different cyclometalating ligands. Cell-

based assays indicated that the complexes were noncytotoxic in the


Steve Po-Yam Li1, Chris Tsan-Shing Lau1, Man-Wai Louie1, Yun-Wah Lam1, Shuk-Han Cheng1 and Kenneth Kam-Wing Lo1

dark (IC50 >300 µM); however, most of them became significantly cytotoxic upon irradiation (IC50 = 3.4 - 23.2 µM). Laser-scanning confocal microscopy images revealed

localization of the complexes in the mitochondrial region of HeLa cells and the induction of rapid necrotic cell death upon light activation. Additionally, the lack of in vivo

toxicity and potential application of the PEG complexes as a visualizing reagent have been demonstrated using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an animal model.

20PosterAbstracts

Interesting!factsDo you know what is the topicof the first PhD thesis fromBCH department?

Kinetics and mechanisms of the reduction of trans-dioxoruthenium(VI) by some inorganic substrates

Lau, Kent Wan-chuen 1995

P13- Surface-Modified Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for the Delivery of Platinum-Based Anticancer Drugs and Controlled Release

Despite extensive introduction of platinum-based chemotherapy to clinical use, further applications are limited by

their side effects and induced drug resistance. Therefore, the development of a more efficient and tumor-specific

drug delivery system is highly demanded. Among the various drug carriers including liposomes, polymeric micelles,

and inorganic nanostructures, mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNPs) possess great properties such as nanoscale

size, biocompatibility, and large amount of tunable internal channels. Here, MSNPs with thiol groups were prepared

and modified with maleic anhydride to introduce a high density of carboxyl groups. The large amount of carboxyl

groups on the surface and channels endowed them with abilities to coordinate with platinum-based drugs and with

potential in further modifications. Considering the fact that tumor site and intercellular compartment have more

acidic condition compared to normal tissues, which can accelerate the drug release in our system, we assembled and

investigated the tumor-specific drug delivery system with controlled release properties. The as-prepared

nanoparticles were well characterized by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscope,

and dynamic light scattering. Drug release profile and in vitro cytotoxicity were tested.


Cai Li1 and Guangyu Zhu1

21PosterAbstractsP14- Synthesis of Group 4 Post-metallocene Complexes Bearing [O,N,C(sp3)] Ligands and Their Catalytic Behavior in OlefinPolymerization

The development of chelating ∂-aryl ligands for supporting group 4 post-metallocene catalysts has been reported, and excellent olefin polymerization activities have been

achieved. In this work, the synthesis, multinuclear NMR characterization and olefin polymerization characteristics of a new series of Group 4 catalysts bearing aryl-

substituted chelating C(sp3)-donor ligands are presented. Catalysts featuring multiple substituents on the aryl moiety have been prepared, and studies have been undertaken

to assess their electronic and steric impact upon ethylene polymerization reactivity. The molecular structure of a Zr derivative was elucidated by X-ray crystallography.

DFT calculations have been performed to probe the nature of the active species and rationalize the catalytic behavior. The catalysts show moderate to high activities in

conjunction with MAO for ethylene polymerization.


Cham-Chuen Liu, Shek-Man Yiu1 and Michael C. W. Chan1

P15- Selective Ag(I) Binding, H2S Sensing and White-Light Emission from an Easy-To-Make Porous Conjugated Polymer

Separating silver (Ag+) from lead (Pb2+) is one of the many merits of the porous polymer framework reported here. The selective metal binding stems from the well-

defined chelating unit of N-heterocycles, which consists of a triazine (C3N3) ring bonded to three 3,5-dimethylpyrazole moieties. Such a rigid and open triad also serves as

the distinct building unit in the fully conjugated 3D polymer scaffold. Because of its strong fluorescence and porosity (e.g., BET surface area: 355 m2/g), and because of

the various types of metal species that can be readily taken up, this versatile framework is especially fit for functionalization. For example, with AgNO3 loaded, the

framework solid exhibits a brown color in response to water solutions of H2S--even at the dilution of 5.0 μM (0.17 ppm); whereas cysteine and other biologically relevant

thiols do not cause notable change in color. In another example, tunable white light emission was produced when an Ir(III) complex was doped (e.g., about 0.02% of the

polymer weight) onto the framework. Mechanistically, the bound Ir(III) centers become highly emissive in the orange-red region, complementing the broad, bluish

emission from the polymer host to result in the overall white-light quality: the color attributes of the emission are therefore easily tunable by the Ir(III) dopant

concentration. With this exemplary study, we intend to highlight metal uptake as an effective approach to modify and enrich the properties of porous polymer frameworks,

and to stimulate interest in further examining metal-polymer interactions in the context of sensing, separation, catalyses and other applications.


Jie Liu1, Ka-Kit Yee1 and Zhengtao Xu1

22PosterAbstracts

Interesting!factsDo you know what is the oldestequipment that can be in BCHdepartment?

HP-5890 Gas Chromatograph (GC). It was purchased in 1989 and is

still working perfectly.

P17- Chalcoplatin, a dual-targeting Pt(IV) anticancer prodrug containing p53 activators

Cisplatin has been one of the most effective and widely used anticancer drugs since the discovery of its antitumor activity. Other platinum(II)-based

anticancer drugs, such as carboplatin, oxaliplatin, nedaplatin, and lobaplatin, have also achieved great success in chemotherapeutic treatment

towards certain kinds of tumor. Their toxicity and side effects promote the search for new types of Pt-based anticancer drugs. Pt(IV)-based

anticancer prodrugs have shown a lot of promises. They can be reduced to Pt(II) drugs with flexible modifications of axial ligands. p53 is the cancer

suppressor protein and the “guardian angel” of genome integrity. In certain types of tumor, p53 is inactivated by its negative regulator, human

murine double minute 2 (MDM2). Chalcone has the ability to break the interactions between p53 and MDM2 to active p53. We introduce chalcone

to Pt(IV) moiety and obtain a Pt(IV) prodrug, chalcoplatin. The hypothesis is that chalcoplatin can be reduced to cisplatin when taken into cells

together with the releasing of chalcone to restore p53 activity to generate a synergistic effect. Here, we report the synthesis and characterizations of

chalcoplatin. The reduction potential was tested by cyclic voltammetry. MTT assays revealed that chalcoplatin had better activities in a couple of

p53-wide type but not p53-null cancer cells. Other biological tests have been carried out to investigate the mechanism of its functions.


Lili MA1, Rong MA1 and Guangyu ZHU1

P16- Self-Assembly of DNA and Biologically Enabled Polymers

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is not only the secret of life but also a potential construction material. It has been utilized as the building materials in

nanostructures in recent years. With the polymerization and supramolecular interactions, the designed DNA structures or modified DNA structures

are utilized by scientists for the studies and developments in Biomedical Sciences and Material Sciences. DNA nanotubes, DNA cages and drugs

specifically attacking DNA are the well-known examples of application in artificial DNA materials. However, the natural DNA or natural

monomers of DNA are not perfect. Some of the desired functions or desired properties are absence. Scientists always transform some of the groups

in DNA into a design with their desired functions.

In this project, an organic molecule imitating natural monomers of DNA (thymine) was synthesized by the mean of classic chemical synthesis. The

designs of this molecule was keeping the essential properties of DNA for the subsequent polymerization and supramolecular interactions while

some modifications for the desired applications were introduced in the same time. The desired applications were including luminescence properties

and biomedical properties. The construction of molecule was divided in several parts and the final stage was the assembly of different parts into the

target molecule.


Liu Ling Sum1, Xu Hailiang1 and Peggy Pik Kwan Lo1

23PosterAbstracts

Polypyridyl and related ligands have been widely used in the construction of water oxidation

catalysts. Supposedly these ligands are oxidation resistant and can stabilize high oxidation

state intermediates. In this work a series of ruthenium(II) complexes [Ru(qpy)(L)2]2+ (qpy =

2,2':6',2'':6'',2'''-quaterpyridine; L = substituted pyridine) have been synthesized and they are

found to catalyze CeIV-driven water oxidation, with turnover numbers up to 2,100. However,

these ruthenium complexes are found to function only as precatalysts, they are first oxidized

to the qpy-N,N’’’-dioxide (ONNO) complexes [Ru(ONNO)(L)2]3+ that are the real catalysts

for water oxidation.


Yingying Liu1, Siu-Mui Ng1, Shek-Man Yiu1, William W. Y. Lam1, Xi-Guang Wei1, Kai-Chung Lau1 and Tai-Chu Lau1

P19- Highly Efficient Alkane Oxidation Catalyzed by [MnV(N)(CN)4]2-. Evidence for [MnVII(N)(O)(CN)4]2- as Active Intermediate

The oxidation of various alkanes catalyzed by [MnV(N)(CN)4]2- using various terminal oxidants at room

temperature has been investigated. Excellent yields of alcohols and ketones (>95%) are obtained using H2O2 as

oxidant and CF3CH2OH as solvent. Good yields (>80%) are also obtained using (NH4)2[Ce(NO3)6] in

CF3CH2OH/H2O. Based on the experimental results, the proposed mechanism for catalytic alkane oxidation by

[MnV(N)(CN)4]2- /ROOH involves initial rate-limiting O-atom transfer from ROOH to [Mn(N)(CN)4]

2- to

generate a manganese(VII) nitrido oxo active species, [MnVII(N)(O)(CN)4]2-, which then oxidizes alkanes

(R’H) via a H-atom abstraction/O-rebound mechanism. The proposed mechanism is also supported by DFT

calculations.


Li Ma1, Yi Pan1, Wai-Lun Man1, Hoi-Ki Kwong1, William W. Y. Lam1, Gui Chen1, Kai-Chung Lau1 and Tai-Chu Lau1

P18- Catalytic Water Oxidation by Ruthenium(II) Quaterpyridine (qpy) Complexes: Evidence for Ruthenium(III) Qpy-N,N’’’-dioxide as the Real Catalysts

24PosterAbstracts

GuessWho?

“The photo was taken when I graduated from Wuhan University

in 2003.”-- Dr. HY Sun

Transition metal complexes with N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands have been developed rapidly over the past two decades. The

unique properties of these NHC complexes can be explained by the excellent ∂-donating ability, stability and the ease of

functionalization of the NHC ligands, which allows for the tuning of their electronic and steric properties. Apart from the extensive

studies of their catalytic applications, there has been a growing interest in the study of luminescent metal-NHC complexes. These

luminescent NHC-containing transition metal complexes not only exhibit novel photophysical properties but also led to the development

of highly efficient OLED.

As isocyano metal complexes are good synthetic precursor for the preparation of metal NHC complexes, we have extended our recent

work on readily tunable luminescent isocyano Re(I) complexes to luminescent Re(I) NHC complexes. Herein, we reported the syntheses

and study of a series of luminescent Re(I) complexes with different types of NHC ligands including N,O-, N,N- and N,S-NHC ligands.

The influence of the ancillary ligands on the reactivity of the isocyanide ligand has been described. The X-ray crystal structures,

photophysics, electrochemistry and reactivity of these NHC complexes have also been investigated.


Chi-On Ng1, Shek-Man Yiu1, and Chi-Chiu Ko1

P20- Luminescent Rhenium(I) Diimine Complexes with Various Types of N-HeterocyclicCarbene Ligands

25PosterAbstracts

A highly specific, distinct color change in the crystals of a metal-organic framework with pendant allyl thioether units in response to Pd species was discovered. The color change (from

light yellow to orange/brick red) can be triggered by Pd species at concentrations of a few parts per million and points to the potential use of these crystals in colorimetric detection and

quantification of Pd(II) ions. The swift color change is likely due to the combined effects of the multiple functions built into the porous framework: the carboxyl groups for bonding with

Zn(II) ions to assemble the host network and the thioether and alkene functions for effective uptake of the Pd(II) analytes (e.g., via the alkene-Pd interaction). The resultant loading of Pd

(and other noble metal) species into the porous solid also offers rich potential for catalysis applications, and the alkene side chains are amenable to wide-ranging chemical transformations

(e.g., bromination and polymerization), enabling further functionalization of the porous networks.


Sze-Wing Ng1, Jun He1, Meiqin Zha1, Jieshun Cui1 and Zhengtao Xu1

P21- Convenient Detection of Palladium(II) by a Metal-Organic Framework with Sulfur and Olefin Functions

The ionization energy (IE) of TiO/TiO2, the 0 K bond dissociation energies (D0) and the heats of formation at 0 K (ΔHof0) and 298 K (ΔHo

f298) for TiO/TiO+ and TiO2/TiO2+ are predicted by

the wavefunction based CCSDTQ/CBS approach. The CCSDTQ/CBS calculations presented here involve the approximation to the complete basis set (CBS) limit at the coupled cluster

level up to full quadruple excitations along with the zero-point vibrational energy (ZPVE), high-order correlation (HOC), core-valence electronic (CV), spin-orbit coupling (SO), and scalar

relativistic effect (SR) corrections. The CCSDTQ/CBS IE(TiO) = 6.830 eV is found in good agreement with the experimental values 6.81980 ± 0.00011 eV measured from the two-color

laser photoionization and photoelectron study. The CCSDTQ/CBS predicted D0(Ti+-O) - D0(Ti-O), ΔHof0(TiO/TiO+), and ΔHo

f298(TiO/TiO+) are all in consistent with the experimental data.

Two conformers of TiO2+ (C2v and Cs symmetries) are found. The CCSDTQ/CBS IEs for ionization transitions of TiO2

+(C2v, 2B2) TiO2 and of TiO2+ (Cs,

2A’) TiO2 are 9.536 and

9.559 eV, respectively. Both of the predicted Ies deviate slightly from (less than 40 meV) the experimental IE(TiO2) = 9.57355 ± 0.00015 eV measured from the VUV-PFI-PE spectrum.

The CCSDTQ/CBS values of D0(O-Ti+-O) - D0(O-Ti-O), ΔHof0(TiO2/TiO2 +), and ΔHo

298(TiO2/TiO2+) are also consistent with experimental data.


Yi Pan1 and Kai-Chung Lau1

P22- High-Level AB Initio Predictions for the Ionization Energy, Bond Dissociation Energies and Heats of Formation ofTitanium Monoxide (TIO), Titanium Dioxide (TIO2), and Their Cations (TIO+/TIO2

+)

26PosterAbstracts

Interesting!facts

With the pioneer investigation of DNA by Seeman’s group, DNA can be constructed into nanomaterials other than carrying genetic

information only. Hydrogen bond is formed between specific bases. This property allows different shape and size of DNA

nanostructures self-assembled by altering the sequence of DNA strands. In present studies, DNA structures from simple 2D

structures to 3D origami can be made. They can perform different functions, eg. drug carrier, logic gate and sensor, etc due to their

non-toxic properties and specificity. In our group, we mainly focus on the construction of simple DNA cage and nanotube. To predict

the shape and size of the nanomaterials, Hyperchem is applied for analysis. This information is useful for trial of encapsulation and

building 3D structure.


Dick Yan Tam1, Man Lee Chan1 and Pik Kwan Lo1

P23- Design and modeling of 3D nanostructures

Chemical and visible light-driven oxidation of water and organic substrates by an iron

complex bearing cross-bridged cyclam (complex 1) have been investigated in aqueous

solution. For chemical water oxidation, NaIO4 was used as the oxidant in acetate buffer at

Ph = 3-6. A maximum turnover number (TON) > 270 was obtained at pH = 4. For visible

light driven ( λ > 420 nm) water oxidation using [Ru(bpy)3]2+ as the photosensitizer and

S2O82- as the sacrificial electron acceptor in a borate buffer at pH 8.50, a TON > 120 was

achieved. Dynamic light scattering measurement revealed that nanoparticles are regarded

as the real catalyst for water oxidation.1 The oxidation of various organic substrates in

H2O using NaIO4 as the oxidant will also be discussed.


Peng Tan1, Tai-Chu Lau1

P24- Catalytic Oxidation of Water and Organic Substrates by an Iron Complex

Do you know what is thesmallest equipment that can befound in BCH lab?

Aquarium thermometer (4 x 0.5 x 0.5 cm3), used for measuring the temperature in a small aquarium Structure of Complex 1

27PosterAbstracts

New biscyclometalated iridium(III) ethylenediamine complexes functionalized with ester or carboxylate groups have been designed and synthesized as phosphorescent cellular imaging reagents.

The incorporation of ester and carboxylate groups into the cyclometalating ligands allowed direct perturbation of the photophysical characteristics of the iridium(III) complexes. The pH-

dependent photophysical properties and pKa values of the carboxylate complexes have been studied by pH absorption and emission titrations. The possible binding interaction of all the

complexes with protein bovine serum albumin has been examined by emission titrations. Remarkably, the polar ester and carboxylate functionalities have substantially varied the lipophilicity of

the complexes, which played a key role in their biological characteristics. The cytotoxic activity and cellular uptake properties of all the complexes have been investigated by the MTT assay,

ICP-MS, and inhibition experiments with HeLa cells as the model cell line. Different subcellular organelles have been selectively stained by the complexes, highlighting the potential of the

complexes as organelle-specific imaging reagents.

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong2Department of Biomedical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong

Tommy Siu-Ming Tang1, Kam-Keung Leung1, Man-Wai Louie1, Hua-Wei Liu1, Shuk Han Cheng2 and Kenneth Kam-Wing Lo1

P25- Phosphorescent Biscyclometalated Iridium (III) Ethylenediamine Complexes Functionalized with Polar Ester or CarboxylateGroups as Bioimaging Reagents

Gas phase fragmentation of radical peptide cations has been widely studied and applied for peptide sequencing and protein identification. The discovery of electron capture dissociation and

electron transfer dissociation, the methods that can generate radical by addition of an electron into a closed-shell positively charged ion, has led to discoveries of other methods to generate

peptide radical, such as oxidative dissociation of peptides metal complexes and photo-induced dissociation of photo-labile radical precursor complexes with peptides. In resulting peptide radical

cations, the radical can migrate to the β carbon of an amino-acid residue due to their low Cβ‒H hydrogen dissociation energy. Such β-radical peptide isomer can lead to a selective cleavage of

N‒Cα or Cα‒C bond along the peptide backbone1. Their selectivity can be predicted by locating the reactant and transition structures of respective dissociation pathways theoretically using

density functional theory (DFT). Among various DFT functionals, M062X gives energy barriers that are comparable with the CCSD level of theory. Detail theoretical calculation suggested that

these bonds are cleaved homolytically, which are supported by the charge- and spin-density distribution in the transition structures evaluated from natural population analysis. For neutral radical

peptides, the cleavage of Cα‒C bond is more favorable than that of N‒Cα bond. When this neutral radical form is protonated, forming peptide radical cations, the energy barrier of Cα‒C bond is

significantly increased and consequently, the cleavage of N‒Cα bond becomes more favorable. Interestingly, heterolytic cleavages of N‒Cα bond will be activated in the presence of mobile

proton and conjugated / aromatic ring attached to β carbon of an amino-acid. Hence the cleavage of N‒Cα bond becomes more favorable than Cα‒C bond.


Wai-Kit Tang1 and Chi-Kit Siu1

P26- Theoretical Examination on the Selectivity of the ß–Radical Induced N-Cα and Cα -C Bond Cleavages along a Peptide Backbone

28PosterAbstracts

We have synthesized and characterized a phosphorescent rhenium(I) polypyridine fructose complex [Re(Ph2-

phen)(CO)3(py-fructose)](CF3SO3) and studied its photophysical and biological properties. On the basis of

competitive experiments involving unmodified fructose, the cellular uptake of the complex was found to be mediated

by membrane-bound fructose transporters. As such, the complex was selectively internalized by breast cancer cell

lines including MCF-7 and MDA-MB241, which overexpress fructose transporters. Additionally, the complex

exhibited significantly increased cytotoxicity upon photoirradiation. Various experiments have revealed that this

enhanced cytotoxic potency was due to singlet oxygen generation by the excited complex.


Karson Ka-Shun Tso1, Kenneth Yin Zhang1, Man-Wai Louie1, Hua-Wei Liu1 and Kenneth Kam-Wing Lo1

P27- A Phosphorescent Rhenium(I) Polypyridine Fructose Complex That Exhibits Selective Uptake by Breast Cancer Cellsand Photocytotoxicity

The development of efficient catalytic routes to transform sustainable resources into desirable and valuable chemical products continues unabated. The catalytic conversion of carbon dioxide

into biodegradable and sustainable materials such as polycarbonates, by alternating copolymerization with epoxides, has attracted considerable attention in the past decade. In this work,

a novel class of shape-persistent binuclear cobalt complexes has been prepared and spectroscopically characterized, and investigations into their catalytic reactivity have been performed.

These bimetallic catalysts are active for the copolymerization of CO2 and propylene oxide, in the presence of [PPN]Cl ([PPN] = bis(triphenylphosphine)iminium), to give poly(propylene

carbonate) under mild conditions with high selectivity and narrow molecular weight distributions. Efforts have been undertaken to improve catalyst efficiency and selectivity, as well as

elucidate the underlying reaction mechanism. Mononuclear control derivatives have also been synthesized. Significantly, compared with their mononuclear counterparts, the binuclear

complexes display superior catalytic activities and enhanced regiochemical control.


Fuli Wang1 and Michael C. W. Chan1

P28- Copolymerization of Carbon Dioxide and Epoxides using Shape-Persistent Binuclear Cobalt Catalysts

29PosterAbstracts

Microarray technologies in recent years have become a robust platform in drug discovery and biomedical research. Since the early 1990s, microarray technologies have seen tremendous

expansion from their original prototypes (e.g. DNA microarrays) to various other forms, including small molecule arrays (SMMs), protein and antibody microarrays and even cell

microarrays. Compound immobilization is one of the most critical steps throughout the entire microarray fabrication and screening process. Over the years, a variety of physical and chemical

methods have been developed for the immobilization of different types of biomolecules. We carried out site-specific microarray immobilization approaches study. Compared with existing

immobilization methods, our approach offers several distinctive features, including fast kinetics and high chemoselectivity.


Ping WANG1 and Hongyan Sun1

P29- Microarray Immobilization of Biomolecules

Platinum-based anticancer drugs including cisplatin, carboplatin, and oxaliplatin have been widely used in the clinic for

decades. Inherent and acquired drug resistance greatly limits the application of platinum drugs. Recently, monofunctional

platinum agents with a general formula of cis-Pt[(NH3)2(N-donor)Cl]+ have attracted considerable interest due to their unique

mode of action and distinguished anticancer spectrum. Here, we present a new monofunctional platinum(II) complex cis-

{Pt(NH3)2[3,5-dichloro-N-(3-chloro-4-(quinolin-6- yloxy)phenyl)-2-hydroxybenzamide]Cl}NO3 (SA-Pt) containing a

salicylanilide moiety. MTT assay indicated that the complex had identical cytotoxicity compared with cisplatin in cancer

cell lines, and SA-Pt was less cytotoxic in normal cells. Mechanism study revealed that the complex entered cancer cells

more efficiently than cisplatin, arrested the cell cycle at the S-phase, and induced apoptosis. Fluorescence titration assay

proved that SA-Pt bound to calf-thymus DNA in the minor groove. The complex bound to plasmid DNA as efficiently as

cisplatin, but did not induce transcription inhibition as strongly as cisplatin. These results revealed that the sterically

bulky N-donor ligand did not improve SA-Pt’s ability to block transcription. These studies shed light on the

development of more potent monofunctional platinum(II) anticancer agents.

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong KongZhigang Wang1, Beilei Wang1, Guangyu Zhu1

P30- A Monofunctional Platinum(II) Anticancer Agent Bearing Salicylanilide Moiety:Synthesis, Cytotoxicity, and Transcription Inhibition

Do you know what is thelargest equipment that can befound in BCH lab?

The Philips Transmission Electron Microscope (2.1 x 1.4 x 2.1 m3)

Interesting!facts

30PosterAbstracts

We have performed an extensive theoretical investigation on molecular structures and electron affinities of halogen substituted acetate radicals, RCH2COO (R=H, F,

Cl and Br) at the coupled cluster level. Three isomers are found for each radicals: RCH2COO, RCH2COO-1 and RCH2COO-2. The isormers (RCH2COO) with two

identical C=O bonds is just a few kcal/mol more stable than other isomers (RCH2COO-1 and RCH2COO-2). The stability of these isomers are affected by the

mixing state in the singly occupied molecular orbital. The electronic ground state of all acetate radicals are 2A¢ and their electron affinities (EAs) are calculated

with the CCSD(T) method and extrapolated complete basis sets limit (CBS), including corrections from zero-point vibrational energy, core-valence electronic

correlation and scalar relativistic effects. The predicted EA(CH3COO) value of 3.300 eV and EA(FCH2COO) value of 3.830 eV are very close to the experimental

values. For the ClCH2COO and BrCH2COO, their respective EAs are 3.893 eV and 3.969 eV; both ~40 meV lower than the experimental data. The comparison

between the theoretical predictions and the experimental values suggests that the CCSD(T)/CBS method is capable of providing accurate EA predictions for the acetate

radical and the halogen substituted counterparts.


Xi-Guang Wei1 and Kai-Chung Lau1

P31- Theoretical Predictions to Molecular Structures and Electron Affinities of Halogen Substituted Acetate Radicals,RCH2COO (R=H, F, Cl and Br)

Molecular components of opposite character are often incorporated within a single system, with a rigid core and

flexible side arms being a common design choice. Herein, molecule L has been designed and prepared featuring the

reverse design, with rigid side arms (arylalkynyl) serving to calibrate the mobility of the flexible polyether links in the

core. Crystallization of this molecule with PbII ions led to a dynamic metal–organic framework (MOF) system that

not only exhibits dramatic, reversible single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformations, but combines distinct donor

and acceptor characteristics, allowing for substantial uptake of PdCl2 and colorimetric sensing of H2S in water.

Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong KongDepartment of Chemistry, Youngstown State University, One University Plaza, Youngstown, OH 44555 (USA)

Jieshun Cui, Yan-Lung Wong, Matthias Zeller, Allen D. Hunter and Zhengtao Xu

P32- Pd Uptake and H2S Sensing by an Amphoteric Metal–Organic Framework with a Soft Core and Rigid Side Arms

31PosterAbstracts

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are key enzymatic regulator of many cellular processes such as gene expression, cell cycle and tumorigenesis. These enzymes are

attractive targets for drug development. So far, radio isotopes and antibodies have been utilized to verify the activity of HDACs. However, the laborious handling or

multistep procedures hinder the immediate measurement of HDAC activity. Other methods such as fluorophore-conjugated peptide way, HPLC, mass spectrometry and

inhibitor competition method do not allow straightforward and facile detection of deacetylase activity. So the development of a fluorogenic probe for the detection of

HDAC activity in a one-step procedure was necessary and very useful. In this presentation, we design a few probes based on different chemical reaction mechanism,

also, some of the chemical and photochemical properties were detected


Yusheng Xie1, Hongyan Sun1

P33- Development of Fluorescent Probe for Detection of Histone Deacetylase Activity Based on Different Reaction Mechanism

Dodecanuclear hexagonal prismatic Zn12L18 cage were prepared by self-assembly

between pyridyl-imine ligand L and Zn(II) hexafluoroantimonate. X-ray crystal structure

reveals that the structure has both fac-Δ, and mer-Λ configured metal centers in a one to one

ratio and has a large cavity which contains five hexafluoroantimonate anions. The NMR of

the cage shows that there are three independent ligand sets with no internal symmetry. With

addition of PF6−, 1H NMR shows that the cage structure retains and the 19F NMR suggests

the encapsulation of PF6−. The results indicate that the captured anions are exchangeable.

However, with addition of BF4−, the spectrum shows number of signals equal to three

independent ligand sets with internal symmetry. The results of the ESI-MS seem suggest

that a Zn4L6 tetrahedral cage is formed in the presence of BF4− anion.


Jing Yang1, Kiu-Chor Sham1, Shek-Man Yiu1 and Hoi-Lun Kwong1

P34- Dodecanuclear Hexagonal Prismatic ZN12L18 Coordination Cage by Self-Assembly

Scheme 1 Self-assembly of Zn

complex

Figure 1 X-ray crystal

structure of [Zn12L18]24+; Zn

ions are shown as orange

spheres and the orange lines

outline the connection of the

metal ions array by the ligands.

32Poster Abstracts

We report a robust metal-organic framework (MOF) for convenient recovery of Pd(II) from acidic nitric solutions which emulate high-level liquid wastes (HLLW)

generated from the reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel. The framework solid (ASUiO-66) was constructed from Zr(IV) ions and the multifunctional linker 2,6-

bis(allylsulfanyl)terephthalic acid (H2L), and features the well-known UiO-66 topology. Herein the robust Zr(IV)-carboxylate bonds impart structural strength to the

host net, while the alkene and thioether units provide for efficient and selective binding of the Pd(II) ions. For example, over 95% of the Pd(II) ions can be

adsorbed from a simulated HLLW (1.0 M HNO3, containing about 20 different types of metal elements), with Ag(I) being the only other metal ion taken up

significantly by the ASUiO-66 sorbent. Moreover, the adsorbed Pd(II) species can be effectively stripped by a dilute solution of thiourea (0.01 M); and the regenerated

framework solid can be used for additional cycles of Pd extraction, with the sorption capacity for Pd(II) being little changed (38-41 mg/g). The isotherm adsorption

data fit well with the Langmuir model with a saturation capacity of 45.4 mg/g, being equivalent to each octahedral cage in the UiO-66 net containing roughly one

Pd(II) ion. In a broader perspective, the alkene and thioether combination could be anchored onto other sorbent systems (e.g., porous polymers and resins) to impart

versatile adsorption properties for the retrieval of noble metal ions.


Meiqin Zha1, Jie Liu1, Yan-Lung Wong1 and Zhengtao Xu1

P35- Extraction of Palladium from Nuclear Waste-like Acidic Solutions by a Metal-Organic Framework with Sulfur andAlkene Functions

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is involved in regulating a diverse spectrum of important physiological processes, such as relaxation of vascular smooth muscles,

inhibition of apoptosis, intervention of neurotransmission, regulation of inflammation, stimulation of angiogenesis, etc. The concentration of endogenous H2S can

vary from nano to millimolar levels across different physiological and pathological states. Abnormal level of H2S, however, is associated with several diseases,

including Alzheimer’s disease, Down syndrome, diabetes, and liver cirrhosis. We report herein a fluorescent probe for the detection of H2S with high sensitivity

and selectivity. The probe is installed with double azide groups and displays high sensitivity to H2S (around 120-fold turn-on response). It reacts with H2S with

high selectivity over other reactive sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen species. The probe was also applied to detect H2S in living cells.


Huatang Zhang1, Pin Wang1, Ganchao Chen1, Hon-Yeung Cheung1 and Hongyan Sun1

P36- A Highly Sensitive Fluorescent Probe for Imaging Hydrogen Sulfide in Living Cells

33Poster Abstracts

The structural and spectroscopic properties of CH3CN and CH3CN-BH3 are investigated by density functional theory and second-order Moller-Plesset theory.

Analyses at the B3LYP/aug-cc-pVTZ and MP2/aug-cc-pVTZ levels reveal significant changes in bond length and vibrational frequencies of CN upon the formation

of CH3CN-BH3 adduct. The extent of charge transfer and the degree of covalent character in the CN bonds have been explored by natural bond orbital (NBO)

analysis, and the results revealed systematic changes in the percentage of s and p orbitals, this partly explains the changes of the bond length and vibrational

frequency in the CN bond . Additional calculations have been performing on two ionized and excited forms of CH3CN: CH3CN+ (2C3V) and CH3CN2+ (1C3V) to

understand the role of lone pair of electrons on N atom in the chemical bonding in CH3CN-BH3 adduct.


Hongyan Zhao1 and Kai-Chung Lau1

P37- Structural and Spectroscopic Properties of CH3CN AND CH3CN-BH3 Adduct by Density Functional Theory and Second-Order Moller-Plesset Theroy

To date, 1,2-Dibromo-4-(1,2-dibromoethyl)cyclohexane (TBECH) is regarded as an “emerging” alternative for phased out brominated flame retardants. TBECH exist as

four pairs of enantiomers (α-, β-, γ- and δ-TBECH) and the technical mixtures usually consist of 1:1 molar ratios of α- and β-TBECH. α- and β-TBECH can be

thermally isomerized into γ- and δ- TBECH, and it has been found that the γ- and δ-isomers are more potent activators of human androgen receptors than the α- and

β-isomers. The presence of TBECH isomers has been reported in lakes, marine sediment, sewage systems, and in Canadian Arctic beluga and herring gulls.

Nevertheless, there is a lack of information on the distribution and fate of TBECH in the marine food web. In the present study, a GC-MS method will be

developed to quantify the levels of TBECH enantiomers in the environmental samples. Electron impact ionization (EI) and negative chemical ionization (NCI) will

be used to provide specificity for the identification and quantification.

Yuefei Ruan1, James CW Lam1 and Paul KS Lam1

P38- Tetrabromoethylcyclohexane (TBECH) in Marine Food Chain

State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong KongDepartment of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

34Poster Abstracts

Blood tests are a standard health protocol for human beings and many mammals, especially for animals under captivity

care. In marine invertebrates, such tests are seldom applied except for intensive culture of crustaceans of commercial

importance, including shrimp and lobsters. In this study, we investigated the use of hemolymph quality from blood samples

of juvenile horseshoe crabs as a proxy measure of their health status under laboratory and field conditions. Horseshoe

crabs are evolutionarily important as one of the oldest marine living fossils and play key roles in coastal ecosystems as a

predator in the benthic food chain and bioturbator enhancing aeration within bottom sediment. Our findings revealed for

the first time that hemocyanin concentration, percentage of oxyhemocyanin, and ratio of granular– spherical to granular–

flattened states of amebocytes in the blood of juvenile Chinese horseshoe crabs under laboratory culture were significantly

reduced over the 12-week experimental period even though the juveniles were fed a protein-rich diet. Similar observations

were noted when juveniles collected from the wild were kept under laboratory conditions. Changes of hemolymph

parameters in juvenile horseshoe crabs were also more sensitive than growth performance and morphological

abnormalities in response to heavy metal stressors. Such non-destructive indices can thus better reflect the health status of

juvenile horseshoe crabs and may be extended to other invertebrate groups.

1Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong2State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Billy K.Y. Kwan1, Alice K.Y. Chan1, S.G. Cheung1,2, and Paul K.S. Shin1,2

P39- A Blood Test for Marine Invertebrates: Monitoring Health Status from HemolymphQuality in Juvenile Chinese Horseshoe Crab Tachypleus tridentatus (Athropoda:Chelicerata)

Do you know what is thelargest animal (non-human)that can be found in BCHdepartment?

Horseshoe crab, a marine living fossils which its oldest fossil can be dated back to 485 million years ago. Its body length could reach 60 cm.

Interesting!facts

35Poster Abstracts

Flame retardants (FRs) are the chemicals used for increasing fire resistance of materials. Since the worldwide restriction on the production and use of

polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), the use of other non-regulated flame retardants such as organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) have been increased

to meet flammability standards. Over the past several decades, coastal pollution has become a great concern in South China due to rapid industrialization and

urbanization. Therefore, it is believed that various forms of flame retardants such as OPFRs widely occur in this region. However, little is known about their

occurrence and fate in this coastal environment. The main objective of this study is to investigate the current status and distribution of non-halogenated flame

retardants namely OPFRs and plasticizers in the South China Sea by analyzing the levels of nineteen OPFRs in the water samples. The analyzed OPFRs in this

study included trimethyl phosphate (TMP), triethyl phosphate (TEP), tripropyl phosphate (TPrP), tri-iso-propyl phosphate (TiPrP), tri- iso-butyl phosphate (TiBP),

tri-n-butyl phosphate (TnBP), trihexyl phosphate (THP), tris(2- butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBEP), tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate (TEHP), triphenyl phosphine oxide

(TPPO), triphenyl phosphate (TPhP), diphenylcresylphosphate (DCP), 2-ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate (EHDPP), tricresyl phosphate (TCP), tris(2-chloroethyl)

phosphate (TCEP), tris(1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCPP), tris(2-chloropropyl) phosphate (T2CPP), tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCPP), and tris(1,3-

dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDBPP). These compounds were identified and quantified by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

(UPLC-MS/MS) method and the procedural recoveries of all OP-FRs ranged from 62% to 119%. The spatial differences and the possible sources of OPFRs in the

South China Sea will be discussed in this paper.

Nelson L.S. LAI1,2, James C.W. LAM1, Alfred Y.C. MAN1,2, Karen Y. KWOK1, and Paul K.S. LAM1,2

P40- Occurrence of Organophosphate Flame Retardants and Plasticizers in Waters from South China

1State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong2Department of Biology and Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

36Poster Abstracts

Sea turtles and Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) are globally endangered and vulnerable species. Their survival is at

risk as they face different anthropogenic threats. Current research efforts on sea turtles in southern China focus on

captivity and husbandry, hematology and blood chemistry, while the Burmese python has been studied very little in its

native range. This creates a pressing need for scientific research on these free-ranging species. The objective of this study

is to generate essential baseline biological and ecological information for development of scientifically-sound

conservation and management measures for the species in Hong Kong and southern China. The study consists of three

major parts: (i) Contaminant risk assessment of sea turtles and Burmese pythons, (ii) Population structure and habitat use

of sea turtles (predominately green turtles) and (iii) Population genetics of green turtles. Sampling of sea turtles was

performed in collaboration with the Gangkou National Sea Turtle Nature Reserve of mainland China, the National

Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium and the Penghu Marine Biology Research Centre of Taiwan. Scute and liver

tissues of green turtles, liver tissues of Burmese pythons were analysed for trace elements and the persistent organic

pollutant polybrominated diphenyl ethers. Population structure and habitat use of sea turtles were determined by analysing

a territory-wide database of live and stranded individuals, exploratory visits, interviews with local and satellite tracking

with home range analysis. Blood and skin samples are used for population genetics of green turtles using mtDNA control

regions. Recommendations in the species management strategies would be proposed accordingly.

Ka Yan Ng1, Margaret B. Murphy1, George H. BALAZS2, He Xiang GU3, Fei Yan ZHANG3,Zhong Rong XIA3, Ming Bin YE3, Tsung Hsien LI4 and Chung Kang HSU5

P41- Conservation Biology of Globally Endangered Sea Turtles and Burmese Pythons inHong Kong and Southern China

1State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong2Oceania Region Vice Chair, IUCN SSC Marine Turtle Specialist Group3Gangkou National Sea Turtle Nature Reserve, Huidong, Guangdong 516359, China4National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, Checheng, Pingtung 94450, Taiwan5Penghu Marine Biology Research Centre, 266 Shihli, Magong, Penghu 88059, Taiwan

Do you know what is theequipment you will find inmost BCH lab?

Auto-pipette, which used to transfer an accurate volume of a liquid

Interesting!facts

37Poster Abstracts

The Japanese (Oryzias latipes) has been established as a vertebrate model for ecotoxicology and biomedical research due to its small size, short generation times,

relatively small medakaand fully sequenced genome, and clearly defined sex chromosomes and secondary sex characteristics. The disadvantage of using a fish model

organism has been the lack of reliable and highly specific gene editing techniques, which are essential for understanding the molecular mechanism in vivo. Previous

genome editing techniques, such as TALEN and Zinc-Finger Nuclease, required complex re-engineering of the binding domain for every sequence of interest, making

generation of knock-out/knock-in mutant lines challenging. The recent development of CRISPR/Cas9 genom8e editing system has overcome this fault due to its

simplicity and flexibility for highly specific gene knock-out and knock-in genomic modification. This technique has been successfully utilized in small fish models, such

as the Japanese medaka, and will have significant applications to in vivo ecotoxicology and biomedical research.

This presentation will outline the CRISPR/Cas9 system’s current capabilities, novel techniques, and its utilization in Japanese medaka for ecotoxicology and biomedical

research. The principal application of the CRISPR/Cas9 system is to knock-out a specific gene, allowing for the loss of function study of this gene. The CRISPR/Cas9

system also allows simple and efficient knock-in of reporter and driver genes, increasing the ability to monitor and regulate gene expression in vivo. The CRISPR/Cas9

system is being combined with new technologies, such as infrared laser-mediated gene induction in single cells (IR-LEGO), which can allow for even more specific

modulation of gene expression in individual cells in vivo. The ease of use and high specificity of the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system has allowed for rapid

generation of knock-in and knock-out Japanese medaka lines, as well as the development of novel techniques for studying molecular mechanisms in vivo.

Drew R. Peterson1, Doris W. T. Au1

P42- Generation of Knock-out and Knock-in Japanese Medaka Fish Lines using CRISPR/CAS9 Genome Editing and ItsApplication to Ecotoxicology and Biomedical Research

1State Key Laboratory in Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong

38Poster Abstracts

Immunotoxicology is a rapidly advancing field in ecotoxicology because of its great relevance for the health and survival fitness of wildlife populations. The marine

medaka Oryzias melastigma has been become popular in immunotoxicology study but the genetic information is still lacking and need to be explored.

To obtain immune gene sequence, a suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) cDNA library was constructed to identify differentially expressed genes in the liver of

marine medaka upon infection with pathogenic Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Among the 396 genes identified 38 (9.6%) were immune-related genes, in which 17 genes were

involved in the complement system. The cDNA library of mixed organs were also constructed, 33 immune genes were identified.

To test the immune response to potential immunosuppressive pollutants, marine medaka was subjected to dietary exposure to 2,2’,4,4’-tetra-bromodiphenyl ether (BDE-

47). Body burdens and other metabolic products were analyzed, only a small amount of debrominated product, BDE-28, was detected. Expression of key immune

complement genes were analyzed in liver in both sex. The results showed that BDE-47 could modulate expression of these genes differentially in males (down regulated)

and female (unchanged or upregulated).

In summary, various immune genes were identified and complement genes were found critical in the marine medaka immune system. In addition, it is also demonstrated

that gender- specific immune response need to be considered in future risk assessment of immunotoxicants.

Roy R. Ye1，Elva N. Y. Lei1，Jun Bo1，Michael H.W. Lam1，Doris W. T. Au1

P43- Identification of Immune Genes in Marine Medaka Oryzias melastigma and Their Response to PBDE Exposure


39Poster Abstracts

In recent decades, Edwardsiella tarda (E.tarda), a causative agent of many serious diseases in both freshwater and marine fish, has aroused increasing concerns

around the world. Understanding the molecular mechanism of natural defense against these pathogenic bacteria is critical for the prevention and control of the

diseases. The objective of this study is to characterize the bactericidal factors in fish blood. Sera extracted from turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) were mixed with

E.tarda, and bacterial cell numbers after treatment were counted every 30 mins for 4 hours to assess the anti-microbial activities of these sera. The number of E.

tarda bacteria significantly decreased after a four-hour exposure to fish sera, but no bactericidal effect was observed for heat-inactivated sera. We conjugated fish

serum proteins with fluorescent dyes before exposing to bacteria, and showed that E.tarda were coated with fluorescent label before lysis, implying the binding of

serum proteins onto bacterial cells. In order to identify bacteria-binding proteins, we have developed a proteomic approach for the isolation and characterization

of the E.tarda-binding proteins in fish serum. Bacteria were incubated with Turbot serum and, after the removal of unbound proteins, subjected to HPLC-MS/MS

analysis. After label-free quantication, several fish proteins include transferrin, immunoglobins, complement component C3 and Wap65-2 were demonstrated to be

bacteria-binding proteins. This suggests the use of live bacteria to affinity-purify serum components, combined with proteomics, is an effective approach in

discovering potentially novel factors in fish innate immunity.

Miao Dong1, Yimin Liang1, Joseph Humble1, Doris Au1, Yun Wah Lam1

P44- Characterisation of Anti-Bacterial Factors in Marine Fish Blood by Cell-Based Assay and by Proteomic Approach


40Author IndexNo. Page

AL F.J. O8 13

BABAEI F. O7 12

CHAN, K.C. P1 14

CHAN, M.S. P2 14

CHEN, G.C. P5 16

CHEUNG, H.Y. P4 15

DAI, Z.W. P6 16

DONG, M. P44 39

HE, D.M. P3 15

HE, S.X. P7 17

HU, P. P8 17

IP, K.W. P9 18

KWAN, K.Y. P39 34

LAI, L.S. P40 35

No. Page

LAW, E. P10 18

LEE, C.C. P11 19

LI, C. P13 20

LI, L.W. O3 08

LI, S.P.Y P12 19

LIU, C.C. P14 21

LIU, J. P15 21

LIU, L.S. P16 22

LIU, Y.Y. P18 23

MA, L. P19 23

MA, L.L. P17 22

NG, K.Y. P41 36

NG, C.O. P20 24

NG, S.W. P21 25

No. Page

PAN, Y. O4 09

PAN, Y. P22 25

PETERSON D.R. P42 37

RUAN, Y.F. P38 33

TAM, D.Y. P23 26

TAN, P. P24 26

TAN, Y. O5 10

TANG, S.M. P25 27

TANG, W.K. P26 27

TSO, K.K.S. P27 28

WANG, F.L. P28 28

WANG, P. P29 29

WANG, Q. O1 06

WANG, Z.G. P30 29

No. Page

WEI, X.G. P31 30

WONG, Y.L. P32 30

WU, Q. O2 07

XIE, Y.S. P33 31

YANG, J P34 31

YE, R. P43 38

ZHA, M.Q. P35 32

ZHANG, H.T. P36 32

ZHANG, H.Y. O6 11

ZHAO, H.Y. P37 33

THE 1ST BCH

STUDENTS’ CONFERENCE

14 JANUARY 2015

Department of Biology and Chemistry City University of Hong Kong Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.cityu.edu.hk/bch/bchstdconf

This booklet was prepared by K Y Billy Kwan, with suggestions from Dr. Y W Lam.

14 january 2015 science - city university of hong kong 1st... · 3 t he 1st bch...

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