Professional Education

  • Bachelor of Science, University of Waterloo (2017)
  • Doctor of Philosophy, University of British Columbia (2023)
  • Ph.D., The University of British Columbia, Chemistry (2023)
  • Bachelor of Science, University of Waterloo, Chemistry (2017)

Stanford Advisors

Contact

  • Academic
    zailez@stanford.edu
    University - Scholar Department: Chemical and Systems Biology Operations Position: Postdoctoral Scholar

Additional Info

  • Mail Code: 5174

Projects

  • Inhibitors of tubulin polyglycylases and isopentenyl diphosphate isomerase, The University of British Columbia (September 1, 2017 - March 1, 2023)

    Microtubules are hollow cylindrical structures made up of the proteins alpha-, and beta-tubulin,
    and they play important roles in cell division, cell motility, and cell shape maintenance. This
    functional diversity is regulated by different tubulin posttranslational modifications (PTMs).
    Polyglycylation is one of the PTMs that has been shown to be important for sperm motility. The
    first part of this thesis describes the synthesis and testing of the enzymes responsible for tubulin
    polyglycylation. These inhibitors will be very useful tools in studying the structure and mechanism
    of these enzymes.
    Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood and high levels of cholesterol increase
    the risk of coronary heart disease. Isopentenyl pyrophosphate (IPP) and dimethylallyl
    pyrophosphate (DMAPP) are precursors for cholesterol. The second part of this thesis describes
    the development of inhibitors against the enzyme that catalyzes the interconversion of IPP and
    DMAPP. Such inhibitors could potentially serve as lead compounds in the development of
    cholesterol-lowering drugs.

    Location

    Vancouver

  • HIPK4: An essential regulator of spermiogenesis and a target for male contraception, Stanford University (3/24/2023 - Present)

    Homeodomain-interacting kinase 4 (HIPK4) as a promising target for male contraception that is selectively expressed in the round to elongating spermatids. Knocking out Hipk4 in mice causes infertility without any other harmful effects. Overall, our research will identify HIPK4 as a promising male contraceptive target and lead to the development of safe and effective contraceptive options for men.

    Location

    Stanford