The Metallodrug Discovery Initiative (MDI), based in the Department of Chemistry at the University of the Free State, develops metal-based pharmaceuticals to address pressing health challenges such as cancer and antimicrobial resistance.
From Molecular Structure to Medical Solution
Led by Associate Professor Alice Brink, MDI focuses on developing metal-containing drug compounds that respond selectively to disease sites. Our approach begins with understanding the crystalline structure, molecular interactions and chemical-kinetic behaviour of metal compounds and translates this knowledge into targeted medical solutions.
Metal-based compounds display unique chemical characteristics and varying reactivity allowing for more selective interaction with disease-related biological structures. They offer promising alternatives to conventional treatments, particularly where drug resistance, toxicity or limited efficacy present medical challenges.
Our Approach
Our vision is to advance science which enables hope and healing for individuals struggling with complex diseases.
To achieve this, the MDI brings together chemistry, biology, and translational medicine to develop targeted treatments informed by molecular structure.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
We connect researchers across chemistry, structural biology, and health science to design, test, and refine metal-based compounds. Our interdisciplinary research bridges fundamental science with clinical relevance and is key to addressing complex challenges.
Capacity development
We invest in training and mentorship for emerging African researchers in structural science and metallodrug discovery. Our focus on skill-building and knowledge-sharing strengthens local research ecosystems, encouraging excellence and supporting future leaders in the field.
Translational impact
Our work responds to real-world health challenges by supporting the development of safer, more targeted therapies and a stronger scientific ecosystem. We aim to turn structural discoveries into therapies that are accessible, relevant, and responsive to patients' needs, particularly in African contexts.
Research Focus
Our research spans the full discovery pathway, from molecular structure and in vitro behavior to potential diagnostic or therapeutic use. We focus on three core areas:
Structure-based development
We use crystallography and structure analysis to design metal-based compounds with defined chemical and biological activity. This enables the creation of more precise, effective, and tolerable model drugs.
Metal–macromolecule interactions
We study the in vitro behaviour of metal complexes and their interactions with proteins, enzymes, and other biological targets. These insights guide us in developing treatments for diseases where current therapies are insufficient, particularly for cancer and drug-resistant infections.
Industrial Materials research
We conduct research focusing on light-matter interactions, the nature of excited states, and structural dynamics to understand mechanisms of key (bio)chemical processes with applications in industrial materials, catalysis and solar-energy conversion.
Crystallographic analysis reveals the intricate atomic structure of compounds. Images provided courtesy: Dr FJF Jacobs.
Key Patents and Publications
Multinuclear complexes and their preparation.
Inventors: Roodt, A., Alberto, R.A., Frei, A., Mokolokolo, P.P., Bolliger, R., Brink, A., Kama, D.V.
Google Patent; WIPO
For a full list of our publications, click here.
Through the lens of structural science, we're exploring new strategies for treating complex diseases which conventional organic-based pharmaceuticals struggle to obtain.
Associate Professor Alice Brink
Laboratory Lead
Metallodrug Discovery Initiative
University of Free State
We welcome collaborators to partner with us in addressing the medical challenges society is facing.
We offer crystallographic services to the scientific community to assist in the structure solutions of small molecules and macromolecules.