Prof. Catherine C. Neto

Current Projects

Separation, structural characterization and anti-tumor activities of proanthocyanidins from cranberry fruit (project funded by UMD Cranberry Research Program)

Anti-proliferative activity, apoptosis, and effect on gene expression in breast, colon, and prostate cancers by flavonoids and triterpenes from cranberry and blueberry fruit (projects funded by Cranberry Institute/Wisconsin Cranberry Board and UMD)

Preparation and characterization of cranberry flavonoids for NIH/NCCAM-funded study of the role of iron-binding and chelation in cranberry’s antioxidant and anti-bacterial effects (collaboration with Dr. Maolin Guo)

Cranberry effects in models of stroke and atherosclerosis (collaboration with UPEI)

Analysis of foliar and fruit phenolics in pest-resistant and non-resistant cranberry cultivars (USDA-funded collaboration with UMass Cranberry Experiment Station)

Research Group And Opportunities

LAB PHONE: x 6654, LOCATION: II-301

Opportunities for research in the Neto research group are currently available for students with an interest in training for a career in bioactive natural products or agricultural and food chemistry. Applications will be considered from students interested in pursuing a M.S. degree in Chemistry through UMass Dartmouth or a Ph.D. in Chemistry through our joint Ph.D. program with UMass Lowell. Ph.D. students in the BMEBT program are also encouraged to inquire about research opportunities. Postdoctoral applicants are welcome and will be considered as funding permits. Chemistry students in the Neto group are eligible for research or teaching assistantships and regularly enjoy opportunities to attend and present research at meetings of the American Chemical Society www.acs.org, the American Society of Pharmacognosy (Natural Products) www.phcog.org, and NACREW.

Photos of Neto Group at Meetings

Chemistry and Biochemistry undergraduate majors with an interest in natural products, phytochemical isolation and analysis, nutrition and cancer or pest resistance are encouraged to discuss research opportunities with Dr. Neto after completing their first two years in the chemistry or biochemistry degree program. Biology majors who are also interested in chemistry are welcome. Undergraduate majors pursuing research under Dr. Neto’s guidance typically commit to a full year of research for credit and are eligible for student assistantships in the summer. In addition, interested students may apply for travel awards to present at research meetings.

Graduates of the Neto research group have been accepted to graduate programs at Tufts University, Virginia Tech and George Washington University, medical schools including UMass Medical School and Nova Southeastern University, or R & D positions at Waters Corporation and Brunswick Labs

 Last Updated On: 4/14/07