Laszlo Prokai
Robert A. Welch Professor
Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology
University of North Texas Health Science Center
Fort Worth, TX 76107
Publications
Peer-reviewed: 126
Books/Books Chapters: 19
Patents: 8
h-factor: 23
University of Veszprem, Hungary
B.S.
06/78
University of Veszprem, Hungary
M.S.
06/80
University of Veszprem, Hungary
University of Florida, Gainesville
Ph.D.
Postdoctoral
11/83
1/87 – 9/89
Chemical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
/Radiochemical Technology
Radiochemistry
Medicinal Chemistry
Dr. Prokai received his undergraduate (B.S.) and graduate education (M.S. and Ph.D.) from the
University of Veszprém (Hungary). After a research experience under the auspices of the Hungarian
Academy of Sciences mainly in the area of mass spectrometry that was recognized by the degree
“Candidate of Science in Chemistry,” he joined the Department of Medicinal Chemistry at the University
of Florida, Gainesville, for a postdoctoral appointment (mentor: Prof. Nicholas Bodor, a highly productive
and worldwide recognized leader of medicinal chemistry in the era) in 1987.
In 1989, Dr. Prokai advanced to a research faculty position at the University of Florida and, then, became
an Assistant Professor at the Department of Pharmaceutics and the Center for Drug Discovery of the
College of Pharmacy in 1991. During his tenure at the University of Florida, he rose in rank to Professor
in the Department of Medicinal Chemistry, held an Affiliate Professorship at the Department of Chemistry,
was a Joint Professor of the Department of Anesthesiology, Scientific Advisor of the Biotechnology
Program, and Member of the McKnight Brain Institute. Dr. Prokai was active in the area of neuropeptide
biochemistry focusing on the dynamics of their release and catabolism, as well as the biochemical
regulatory role of neuropeptidases, and conceived central nervous system permeable analogues and
prodrugs out of several neuropeptides for their potential exploitation as therapeutic entities (3 issued
patents). In addition, his groundbreaking discoveries on free-radical scavenging and substrate preference
for both the oxidation and reduction processes in a previously not recognized antioxidant cycle for
estratrienes provided further opportunities for translational research of an enormous impact (5 issued
patents).
Dr. Prokai was recruited as the first Robert A. Welch Professor of Chemistry by the Department of
Molecular Biology & Immunology of the University of North Texas Health Science Center in 2005. He has
maintained an actively funded research program supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and
is recognized nationally and internationally for his work on discovery of, as well as bioorganic and
medicinal chemistry of central nervous system agents, on neuropeptides, and in the area of proteomics
and mass spectrometry. Dr. Prokai established the Advanced Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics
Laboratory at the Department of Molecular Biology & Immunology, which is the most state-of-the-art
facility of its kind in the Fort Worth, TX, area (considering both academia and
pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry), and have pioneered the development of sophisticated methods
to allow for, among others, improvement of in vivo neurochemical interrogations in the brain, obtaining
increased proteome coverage of isolated subcellular organelles, identification of differentially expressed
proteins from cultured cells and tissue, as well as to study posttranslational protein modifications
associated with oxidative stress.
I. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
1980-1983 Assistant Research Scientist, Hungarian Oil and Gas Research Institute, Veszprem,
Hungary
1983-1987 Associate Research Scientist, Hungarian Oil and Gas Research Institute, Veszprem,
Hungary
1981-1986 Adjunct Lecturer, University of Veszprem (currently: University of Pannonia),
Veszprem, Hungary
1987-1989 Postdoctoral Research Associate, Center for Drug Design and Delivery, University of
Florida
1989-1990 Assistant Research Scientist, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida
1990-1991 Assistant Scientist, Center for Drug Discovery, College of Pharmacy, University of
Florida
1991-1996 Assistant Professor, Center for Drug Discovery and Dept. of Pharmaceutics, University
of Florida
1996-2000 Associate Professor, Center for Drug Discovery and Dept. of Pharmaceutics,
University of Florida
1998-2005 Member of the McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida
2000-2002 Professor, Center for Drug Discovery and Dept. of Pharmaceutics, University of Florida
2001-2004 Scientific Advisor of the Biotechnology Program, University of Florida
2002-2005 Affiliate Professor, Department of Chemistry, University of Florida
2003-2005 Professor, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida, Gainesville
2005
Joint Professor, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Florida
2005Robert A. Welch Professor, Dept. of Molecular Biology & Immunology, UNTHSC
at Fort Worth
2005-2007 Adjunct Professor, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Florida
2006Adjunct Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at
Arlington
2007Department of Chemistry, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX
II. HONORS AND AWARDS
1993
2000
2002
2010
Research Development Award, University of Florida Division of Sponsored Research
Habilitation (Dr. habil.) by the University of Veszprem (currently: University of Pannonia),
Veszprem, Hungary
Pro Renovanda Cultura Hungariae Visiting Professorship, University of Szeged, Szeged,
Hungary
Doctor of Science (D. Sc., Chemistry), Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
III. SELECTED PEER-REVIEWED PUBLICATIONS (15 out of 126)
1. N. Bodor, L. Prokai, W.M. Wu, H. Farag, S. Jonalagadda, M. Kawamura, J. Simpkins. A strategy for
delivering peptides into the central nervous system by sequential metabolism, Science, 257, 16981700 (1992).
2. L. Prokai, X. Ouyang, W.-M. Wu, and N. Bodor, Chemical delivery system to transport a pyroglutamyl
peptide amide to the central nervous system, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 116, 2643-2644 (1994).
3. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, X. Ouyang, W.-M. Wu, H.-S. Kim, A. Zharikova, and N. Bodor,
Metabolism-based brain-targeting system for a thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogue, J. Med.
Chem., 42, 4563-4571 (1999).
4. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, and N. Bodor , Targeting drugs to the brain by redox chemical delivery
systems, Med. Res. Reviews, 20, 367-416 (2000).
5. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, A.D. Zharikova, X. Li, and J.R. Rocca, Combinatorial lead-optimization of
a neuropeptide FF antagonist, J. Med. Chem., 44, 1623-1626 (2001).
6. L. Prokai, A.D. Zharikova, T. Janáky, X. Li, A.C. Braddy, P. Perjési, L. Matveeva, D.H. Powell, and K.
Prokai-Tatrai, Integration of mass spectrometry into early-phase discovery and development of
central nervous system agents, J. Mass Spectrom., 36, 1211-1219 (2001).
7. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, A.D. Zharikova, V. Nguyen, and S.M. Stevens, Jr., Centrally-acting and
metabolically stable thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogues upon replacement of histidine with
substituted pyridinium, J. Med. Chem., 47, 6025-6033 (2004).
8. L. Prokai, A. Zharikova, S.M. Stevens, Jr. The effect of chronic morphine exposure on the synaptic
plasma-membrane subproteome of rats: a quantitative protein profiling study based on isotope-coded
affinity tags and liquid chromatography – mass spectrometry, J. Mass Spectrom., 40, 169-175 (2005).
9. N. Rivera-Portalatin, J.L. Serrano-Vera, K. Prokai-Tatrai, and L. Prokai, Comparison of estrogenderived ortho-quinone and para-quinol concerning induction of oxidative stress, J. Steroid Biochem.
Mol. Biol., 105, 71-75 (2007).
10. L. Prokai, J.W. Simpkins. Structure–nongenomic neuroprotection relationship of estrogens and
estrogen-derived compounds, Pharmacol Therapeut., 114, 1-12 (2007).
11. S.M. Stevens, R.S. Duncan, P. Koulen, L. Prokai. Proteomic analysis of mouse brain microsomes:
Identification and bioinformatic characterization of endoplasmic reticulum neuroproteins, J. Proteome
Res., 7, 1046-1054 (2008).
12. S.M. Stevens Jr., K. Prokai-Tatrai, and L. Prokai, Factors that contribute to the misidentification of
tyrosine nitration by shotgun proteomics, Mol. Cell. Proteomics, 7, 2442-2451 (2008).
13. N. Rauniyar, S.M. Stevens Jr., K. Prokai-Tatrai, L. Prokai. Characterization of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenalmodified peptides by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry using data-dependent
acquisition: neutral loss-driven MS3 versus neutral loss-driven electron capture dissociation. Anal.
Chem., 81, 782-789 (2009).
14. N. Rauniyar and L. Prokai, Detection and identification of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal Schiff-base adducts
along with products of Michael addition using data-dependent neutral loss-driven MS3 acquisition:
method evaluation through an in vitro study on cytochrome c oxidase modifications, Proteomics, 9,
5188-5193 (2009).
15. L. Prokai, S.M. Stevens Jr., N. Rauniyar, V. Nguyen, Rapid label-free identification of estrogeninduced differential protein expression in vivo from mouse brain and uterine tissue, J Proteome Res.,
8, 3862–3871 (2009).
IV. RESEARCH SUPPORT
Ongoing Research Support
Estrogen-Derived Para-Quinol Intervention in Alzheimer's Disease
Principal Investigators: Mary Ann Ottinger, Ph.D.; Subcontract-PI: Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Agency: National Institute of Health/National Institute on Aging
Type: R21 (AG031387), Period: September 15, 2009 – August 31, 2011
The goal of the proposed study is to evaluate para-quinols derived from estrone and 17β-estradiol as
novel brain-selective estrogen prodrugs in a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease as interventions for
neuropathology and cognitive impairment.
Novel Treatment of Menopausal Hot Flushes with an Estradiol Prodrug
Principal Investigators: Istvan J. Merchenthaler, Ph.D., Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Agency: National Institute of Health/National Institute on Aging
Type: R01 (AG031535), Period: March 1, 2009 – February 28, 2013
The long-term goal of this application is to explore the para-quinol of 17β-estradiol for estrogen
therapy and, specifically, amelioration of menopausal hot flushes.
Mechanism of Carisoprodol Abuse
Principal Investigators: Glenn H. Dillon, Ph.D., Michael Forster, Ph.D., Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Agency: National Institute of Health/National Institute on Drug Abuse
Type: RO1 (DA022370), Period: July 1, 2009 – June 30, 2013
The overall goal of the proposed study is to identify the mechanisms that mediate carisoprodol abuse,
both at behavioral and molecular levels.
Rapid Response Program for Detection of Biological and Chemical Warfare Agents
Principal Investigator: Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Agency: US Army RDECOM Acq. Ctr.
Type: Research Contract (W911SR-07-C-0050), Period: September 30, 2007 – June 21, 2010
The objective is to establish a state-of-the-art mass spectrometry facility to be used for studies on the
detection and identification of potentially harmful bio-warfare and chemical agents.
Survey of Age-Associated Carbonylation of Brain Proteins
Principal Investigator: Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Agency: National Institute of Health/National Institute on Aging
Type: RO1 (AG025384), Period: September 30, 2004 – August 31, 2010
The long-term objective of this project is to develop and employ a proteomic approach to facilitate the
elucidation of the biochemical mechanisms that cause decrements in brain function.
Effects of Age on Ethanol Withdrawal Toxicity: Mechanisms and Therapy
Principal Investigator: Marianna Jung, Ph.D., Co-investigator: Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Agency: National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Type: RO1 (AA015982), Period: September 1, 2006 – June 30, 2011
This grant will determine mechanisms underlying deleterious interaction between ethanol withdrawal
and brain aging of female subjects (rats) in the presence and absence of endogenous estrogen.
Novel Mechanisms of Gonadal Hormone Action; Core B: Mass Spectrometry
Program Director: Meharvan Singh, Ph.D.; Core Director: Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Agency: National Institute of Health/National Institute on Aging
Type: PO1 (AG027956), Period: August 15, 2007 – May 31, 2011
The long-term objective of this program is to identify key players in neuroprotection by estrogens and
progesterone. The Mass Spectrometry Core supports four projects with proteomics.
Completed during the last three years
Pilot Proteomics Project
Principal Investigator: Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Sponsor: Alcon Research Ltd.
Period: May 1, 2008 – November 31, 2007
This sponsored research was focused on proteomics of cultured glaucomatous trabecular
meshwork cells.
The Role of Quinols in Estrogen Neuroprotection
Principal Investigator: Laszlo Prokai, Ph.D.
Agency: National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Type: RO1 (NS 44765, Years 1-5), Period: January 15, 2003 – December 31, 2007
The objective was to investigate neuroprotective mechanisms of estrogens as antioxidants.
V. PATENTS
Sole Inventor
Antagonists of RF-Amide Neuropeptides, US Patent 6,797,707 (UFRF)
Antagonists of RF-Amide Neuropeptides, US Patent 6,960,574 (UFRF)
Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone Analogues and Their Therapeutic Applications, US Patent
7,067,257 (UFRF)
Lead Inventor
Steroidal Quinols and Their Use for Antioxidant Therapy, US Patent 7,026,306 (UFRF)
Prodrugs for Use as Ophthalmic Agents, US Patent 7,186,707 (UFRF)
Steroidal Quinols and Their Use for Estrogen Replacement, US Patent 7,300,926 (UFRF)
Quinol compound and Pharmaceutical Composition, US Patent 7,534,779 (UFRF)
Prodrugs for Use as Ophthalmic Agents, US Patent 7,572,781 (UFRF)
Alkyl Ether Modified Polycyclic Compounds Having a Terminal Phenol and Uses for Protection of
Cells, US Patent Application Serial No. 9/893,324 (UFRF)
Isotope Labeled Dinitrophenylhydrazines and Methods for Use, US Patent Application, Serial No.
60/614,951 (UFRF)
Co-Inventor
Systems and Methods for Evaluating Enzyme Competency, US Patent Application Serial No.
60/611,514 (UFRF)
Marker Detection Method and Apparatus to Monitor Drug Compliance, US Patent Application,
Serial No. 11/097,647 (UFRF)
Protease-Targeted Inhibitor-Ligands to Image Neuronal Cell Damage, US Patent Application,
Serial No. 60/680,282 (UFRF)
HDL Particles for Delivery of Nucleic Acids, US Provisional Patent Application, Serial No. pending
(UNTHSC)
VI. TEACHING (last 5 years)
1. UNTHSC-FW
a. Lectures or Courses – Medical
2006-2007
Cellular Science – TCOM 9110 (2 hours, 2006 and 2007)
b. Lectures or Courses – Graduate
Integrative Biomedical Science I: Principles of Biochemistry – BMSC 6301 (2006 Fall, 2007 Fall and
2008 Fall, 4 hours each)
Special Problems: Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomics – MOLB 5900 (2008 Spring, 2009 Spring,
16 hours each)
Drug Discovery and Design – MOLB 6270 (Course director, 2008 Fall, 32 hours)
Principles of Biochemistry – BMSC 5301 (2009 Fall, 10 hours)
2. Univerity of Texas at Arlington (UTA)
2008 Mass Spectrometry (Graduate Course at UTA–Chemistry&Biochemistry, 2 hours)
3. Seminars (last 5 years)
a. Local and State
Estrogens and Neuroprotection: Does Chemistry Have a Role? University of North Texas,
Department of Chemistry (September 11, 2009, Denton, TX). INVITED
Peptide Transport and Delivery into the Central Nervous System, MetroCon. Organized by the
IEEE Fort Worth Section (October 10, 2007, Arlington, TX). INVITED
Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomics for Profiling Protein Expression and Posttranslational
Modifications in Tissue, Alcon Research Ltd. (September 26, 2007, Fort Worth, TX).
INVITED
The Chemical Side of Estrogen Neuroprotection, Texas Christian University, Department of
Chemistry (February 3, 2007, Fort Worth, TX). INVITED
Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Mass Spectrometry (But Were Afraid to Ask),
University of North Texas Health Science center at Fort Worth (March 27, 2006).
INVITED
Advances in the Application of Mass spectrometry for Monitoring Neuropeptides and
Neuropeptidases in Action, University of Texas at Arlington, Department of Chemistry
and Biochemistry (January 27, 2006). INVITED
b. National
Perspectives of Oxidative Stress-Related Biomarker Discovery by Liquid Chromatography–
Tandem Mass Spectrometry Focusing on Posttranslational Protein Carbonylation, 6th
US HUPO Meeting (March 9, 2010, Denver, CO).
Perspectives of Brain-Selective Estrogen Therapy for Neuroprotection, University of Maryland at
Baltimore, School of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology (October 6, 2009).
INVITED
Challenges and Solutions to Survey Posttranslational Protein Carbonylation by Mass
Spectrometry-Based Proteomics, Posttranslational Modifications: Detection &
Physiological Evaluation, An American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Meeting (October 26, 2008, Tahoe City, CA).
DART at Ultrahigh Resolution (FTMS), DART Forum at the 56th ASMS Conference on Mass
Spectrometry and Allied Topics (June 1, 2008, Denver, Colorado, USA). INVITED
Discovery of Central Nervous System Agents in Academia: Strategies and Perspectives,
Arizona State University, Department of Psychology, Tempe, AZ (October 17, 2007).
INVITED
Survey of Morphine’s Effect on Synaptic Membrane Proteins by Quantitative Profiling,
Experimental Biology 2006 (April 4, 2006, San Francisco, California, USA). INVITED
c. International
Mass Spectrometry-Based Methods to Identify Posttranslational Protein Modification by
Covalent Attachment of Reactive α,β-Unsaturated Aldehydes, 27th Informal Meeting
on Mass Spectrometry (May 4, 2009, Retz, Austria). INVITED
Application of Prodrug Strategies to Create Magic Bullets for the Treatment of CNS
Maladies, 2nd World Conference on Magic Bullets (Ehrlich II) (October 4, 2008,
Nürnberg, Germany). INVITED
Perspectives of Brain-Selective Estrogen Therapy for Neuroprotection, 4th Pannonian
Symposium of CNS Injury (September 27, 2008, Pécs, Hungary). INVITED
Application of In Vivo Microdialysis in Neurochemistry and CNS-Drug Research, EGISServier Preclinical Research Division (September 2, 2008, Budapest, Hungary).
INVITED
Brain-Selective Estrogen Therapy, 1st International Conference on Drug Design and
Discovery (February 6, 2008, Dubai, United Arab Emirates). INVITED
Application of Analytical Separation Methods Combined with In Vivo Cerebral Microdialysis
Sampling and Mass Spectrometric Detection to Study Mammalian Neurochemistry in
Animal Models, 7th Balaton Symposium on High-Perforemance Separation Methods
(September 6, 2007, Siófok, Hungary).
Proteomics in Fort Worth, Special Meeting of the Pécs Section of Hungarian Academy of
Sciences (September 4, 2007, Pécs, Hungary). INVITED
Recent Advances in Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomics and Lipidomics, Biological
Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (May 10, 2007, Szeged,
Hungary)
Exploration of Posttranslational Protein Carbonylation as a Marker of Oxidative Stress by
Mass Spectrometry, 25th Informal Meeting on Mass Spectrometry (May 7, 2007,
Nyíregyháza-Sóstó, Hungary). INVITED
Mass Spectrometry in Drug Research, Semmelweis University, School of Pharmacy,
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry (March 2, 2007, Budapest, Hungary).
INVITED
Application of Mass Spectrometry in Brain Research, Chemical Research Centre of The
Hungarian Academy of Sciences (February 28, 2007, Budapest, Hungary). INVITED
Produg Strategies to Enhance the Effect and/or Selectivity of Central Nervous System
Agents after Systemic Administration, Semmelweis University, School of Pharmacy,
Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry (October 17, 2006, Budapest, Hungary).
INVITED
Application of Artificial Membranes to Predict Transport Across the Blood-Brain Barrier in
Early-Phase Drug Discovery, Joint Scientific Session of the Complex Drug Research,
and the Organic and Drug Analysis Committees of the Hungarian Academy of
Sciences (October 13, 2006, Budapest, Hungary). INVITED
Proteome-Wide Exploration of Posttranslational Protein Carbonylation as a Marker of
Oxidative Stress, A Joint Meeting of 2nd Basic and Clinical Immunogenomics and 3rd
Immunoinformatics (Immunomics) Conferences (October 10, 2006, Budapest,
Hungary). INVITED
Effect of Morphine on Synaptic Membrane Proteins by Quantitative Protein Profiling,
International Narcotics Research Conference (INRC) 2006 (July 11, 2006, St. Paul,
Minnesota, USA). INVITED
Application of mass spectrometry to neuropeptides and neuroproteins, University of Vienna,
Department of Analytical Chemistry (June 12, 2006, Vienna, Austria). INVITED
State-of-the-Art Methods of Proteomics and Their Use in Pharmaceutical Research,
Congressus Pharmaceuticus Hungaricus XIII (May 26, 2006, Budapest, Hungary).
INVITED
4. Student Supervision
Graduate Advisor
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences,
UNTHSC, 10/2010 to present
Pharmaceutical Sciences Program, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville,
1996–2000.
Major professor (UNTHSC)
Navin Rauniyar, 2005-2010: Mass spectrometry-based characterization of posttranslational
modifications by 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (Ph.D.)
Victor Villarreal, 2007-2008: Structure–activity relationships of antibacterial agents.
Jia Guo, 2008-present:
Protein nitration and carbonylation (Ph.D.)
Tatjana Talamantes, 2009-present: Proteomics in zebrafish models (Ph.D.)
Lokesh Dalasanur Nagaprashan (joint with S. Awasthi), 2009-present: RLIP in cancer (Ph.D.)
University of Florida:
Ho-Seung Kim (Ph.D.), 1994-1997
April C. Braddy (Ph.D.), 2000-2004
Vien Nguyen (Ph.D.), 1999-2006
Tamara Blagojevic (Ph.D., joint with John Eyler, Dept. of Chemistry), 2004-2005
Nilka M. Rivera-Portalatin (Ph.D.), 2003-2006
Xiaoli Wang (Ph.D.), 2003-2006
Committee member (UNTHSC)
Deepanwita Pal - 2008
UNTHSC Summer Program
Deondra Manning, 2006
Darius Bonds, 2007, 2008
Giang Nguyen, 2009
UNTHSC (A. Basu)
PREPARE Program
Tatjana Talamantes, 2007-2008
Lee Goodloe, 2008-2009
International Ph.D. Students (visiting UNTHSC or UF)
Rui M.M. Branca, November-December 2006, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian
Academy of Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
Hajnalka Laczko-Dobos, April-May 2008, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of
Sciences, Szeged, Hungary
Meritxell Teixidó, Fall 2003 (at the University of Florida), Universidad Barcelona, Spain
Undergraduate Student
Darius Bonds (University of Texas at Arlington), 2007-2009
High-School Student
Ashwin Chandra (Coppell High School, Coppell, TX), 2009-2010
Postdoctoral Associates (in chronological order)
Dr. Balazs Blazics, Semmelweis University, Hungary
Dr. Srinivas Chakravartula, Osmania University, India
Dr. Xiaoqian Liu, University of Missouri-Rolla
Dr. Rui M. M. Branca, University of Szeged, Hungary
Dr. Petr Frycak, Palacký University, Olomouc, Czech Republic
Dr. Attila Kiss, University of Debrecen, Hungary
Dr. Krisztina Konya, University of Debrecen, Hungary
Dr. Vien Nguyen, University of Florida, Gainesville
Dr. C. Mirela Stefan, University of Florida, Gainesville (at UF)
Dr. Laurent Marc, CERN, Paris, France (at UF)
Dr. Taewook Kim, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Korea (at UF)
Dr. Stanley M. Stevens, Jr., University of Florida, Gainesville (at UF)
Dr. Csaba Somlai, University of Szeged, Hungary (at UF)
Dr. Pal Perjesi, University of Pécs, Hungary (at UF)
Dr. Tamas Janaky, University of Szeged, Hungary (at UF)
Dr. Alevtina Zharikova, Institute of Biological Physics, Pushchino, Russia (at UF)
Dr. Seung-Woon Myung, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul, Korea (at UF)
Dr. Ragulan Ramanathan, University of Florida, Gainesville (at UF)
6. Interactions with Other Institutions
University of Florida, Gainesville, Department of Anesthesiology. Courtesy appointment (since
2005). This collaboration is focused on exhaled breath-based diagnostics.
University of Texas at Arlington, Department of Chemistry, Adjunct appointment (since 2006). The
goal is to collaborate with chemistry and biochemistry faculty and guest lecture in graduate courses.
Texas Christian University, Department of Chemistry, Adjunct appointment (since 2007). The goal
is to collaborate with biochemistry faculty.
7. Interactions with Industries/Companies
Alcon Research Ltd., Fort Worth, TX: 2007–present
AgyPharma LLC, Mansfield, TX: 2008–present
Tensive Controls, Inc., Greensboro, NC: 2009–present
VII. SERVICE
1. UNTHSC committee memberships
Graduate Council, UNTHSC, Fort Worth, 2009–present
2. Professional service -- local, state, national, international
American Chemical Society Dallas/Fort Worth Section, Member of the Award Committee, 2007–
2009
American Chemical Society Dallas/Fort Worth Section, Chair of the Award Committee, 2010
Editorial Advisory Board Member, CNS Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, 2000–
Editorial Advisory Board Member, Current Drug Delivery, 2003–
Editorial Advisory Board Member, Medicinal Chemistry, 2004–
Editorial Advisory Board Member, Medicinal Chemistry Reviews Online, 2003–2005
Editorial Advisory Board Member, Current Medicinal Chemistry, 2006–
Editorial Advisory Board Member, Open Medicinal Chemistry Journal, 2007–
3. Community service
None.
VIII. PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES
1. Journal reviewer
Amino Acids
Analytical Chemistry
Brain Research
Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters
Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology
Chemical Research in Toxicology
Drug Discovery Today
European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Free Radical Biology and Medicine
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry
Journal of Chromatography
Journal of Heterocyclic Chemistry
Journal of Mass Spectrometry
Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
Journal of Neurochemistry
Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis
Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Journal of Proteome Research
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences U.S.A.
Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry
Talanta
2. Grant review / study section
2000 American Chemical Society Petroleum Research Fund
2001 Board of Regents, State of Louisiana
2007 National Science Foundation
2008 Kentucky Science and Engineering Foundation (KSEF)
2009, Ad hoc Member, ETTN-A Special Emphasis Panel, NIH
2009 to present, Member, NIH Molecular Neurogenetics (MNG) Study Section
2010, Ad hoc Member, EMNR-E (10) B Special Emphasis Panel
.
3. Consultantion
Consultant, Du Pont Marshall Laboratory, Philadelphia, PA, 1994–2004
Consultant, Pharmos Corporation, Alachua, FL, 1994–1996
Consultant, Shaman Pharmaceuticals, South San Francisco, CA, 1997–1998
Consultant, ALS-Therapy Development Foundation, Newton, MA, 2000–2005
Co-Founder and Senior Research Officer, NeurAl-Pro, Alachua, FL, 2003–2005
Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer, AgyPharma LLC, Mansfield, TX, 2007–
IX. PROFESSIONAL COLLABORATIONS (include collaboration that resulted in publications
and/or grants or grant applications)
Academic
Prof. Raymond J. Bergeron, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Prof. Heather A. Bimonte-Nelson, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Prof. Angela Brodie, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD
Prof. Cheryl Conrad, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Prof. Kenneth A. Gruber, California State Polytechnic University-Pomona, CA
Prof. Peter Koulen, University of Missouri–Kansas City
Prof. Tamas Lorand, University of Pécs, Hungary
Prof. Walter J. McConathy, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Perminan Basin
Campus, Odessa, TX
Prof. Istvan J. Merchenthaler, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD
Prof. Robert A. Mericle, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
Prof. Mary Ann Ottinger, University of Maryland, College Park, MD
Prof. Anil Sood, M.D. Anderson Cancer center, Houston, TX
Prof. Istvan Toth, University of Queensland, Australia
Dr. Csaba Bagyinka, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences,
Szeged, Hungary
Dr. Zoltan Gombos, Biological Research Centre of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences,
Szeged, Hungary
Industrial
Dr. William J. Simonsick, Jr., Du Pont, Wilmington, DE
Dr. Jeyanthi Ramasubbu, ALS-TDF, Newton, MA
Dr. Emil Pop, Pharmos Corporation, Alachua, FL (now at Alchem Laboratories, Alachua, FL)
X.
FULL LIST OF PUBLICATIONS.
1.
N. Rauniyar, K. Prokai-Tatrai, and L. Prokai, Identification of carbonylation sites in apomyoglobin after
exposure to 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal by solid-phase enrichment and liquid chromatography–electrospray
ionization tandem mass spectrometry, J. Mass Spectrom., 45, 398-410 (2010).
2.
B.B. Braden, J.S. Talboom, I. Crain, A.R. Simard, R.J. Lukas, L. Prokai, M. Scheldrup, B. Bowman, H.
Bimonte-Nelson, The WHI progestin, medroxyprogesterone acetate, impairs memory and alters the
GABAergic system in aged surgically menopausal rats, Neurobiol. Learn. Mem., 93, 444-453 (2010).
3.
K. Prokai-Tatrai, D.V. Bonds, and L. Prokai, Simultaneous measurement of 17-estradiol, 17-estradiol and
estrone by GCisotope dilution MS/MS, Chromatographia, 71, 311-315 (2010).
4.
H. Lacko-Dobos, P. Frycak, B. Ughy, I. Domonkos, W. Hajime, L. Prokai, and Z. Gombos, Remodeling of
phosphatidylglycerol in Synechocystis PCC6803, Biochim. Biophys. Acta Mol. Cell. Biol. Lipids, 1801, 163-170
(2010).
5.
N. Rauniyar and L. Prokai, Detection and identification of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal Schiff-base adducts along with
products of Michael addition using data-dependent neutral loss-driven MS3 acquisition: method evaluation
through an in vitro study on cytochrome c oxidase modifications, Proteomics, 9, 5188-5193 (2009).
6.
S. Dasgupta, L. Wasson, N. Rauniyar, L. Prokai, J. Borejdo, and J.K. Vishwanatha, Novel gene C17orf37 in
17q12 amplicon promotes migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells, Oncogene, 28, 2860-2872 (2009).
7.
L. Prokai, S.M. Stevens Jr., N. Rauniyar, and V. Nguyen, Rapid label-free identification of estrogen-induced
differential protein expression in vivo from mouse brain and uterine tissue, J. Proteome Res., 8, 3862-3871
(2009).
8.
L. Prokai, Misidentification of nitrated peptides: Comments on Hong, S.J., Gokulrangan, G., Schöneich, C.,
2007. Proteomic analysis of age dependent nitration of rat cardiac proteins by solution isoelectric focusing
coupled to nanoHPLC tandem mass spectrometry. Exp. Gerontol. 42, 639–651, Exp. Gerontol., 44, 367-369
(2009).
9.
K. Prokai-Tatrai, L. Prokai, J.W. Simpkins, and M.E. Jung, Phenolic compounds protect cultured hippocampal
neurons against ethanol-withdrawal induced oxidative stress, Int. J. Molecular Sci., 10, 1773-1787 (2009).
10. B. Kocsis, I. Kustos, F. Kilar, A. Nyul, P.B. Jakus, S. Kerekes, V. Villarreal, L. Prokai, and T. Lorand,
Antifungal unsaturated cyclic Mannich ketones and aminoalcohols: Study of mechanism of action, Eur. J. Med.
Chem., 44, 1823-1829 (2009).
11. K. Prokai-Tatrai and L. Prokai, Prodrugs of thyrotropin-releasing hormone and related peptides as central
nervous system agents, Molecules, 14, 633-654 (2009).
12. N. Rauniyar, S.M. Stevens Jr., K. Prokai-Tatrai, and L. Prokai, Characterization of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenalmodified peptides by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry using data-dependent acquisition:
neutral loss-driven MS3 versus neutral loss-driven electron capture dissociation, Anal. Chem., 81, 782-789
(2009).
13. S.M. Stevens Jr., K. Prokai-Tatrai, and L. Prokai, Factors that contribute to the misidentification of tyrosine
nitration by shotgun proteomics, Mol. Cell. Proteomics, 7, 2442-2451 (2008).
14. L. Prokai, P. Frycak, S.M. Stevens Jr., and V. Nguyen, Measurement of acetylcholine in rat brain
microdialysates by LC– isotope dilution tandem MS, Chromatographia, 68, S101-S105 (2008).
15. V. Nguyen, D.V. Bonds, and L. Prokai, Measurement of hydroxyl-radical formation in the rat striatum by in vivo
microdialysis and GC–MS, Chromatographia, 68, S57-S62 (2008).
16. K. Prokai-Tatrai, H.S. Kim and L. Prokai, The utility of oligopeptidase in brain-targeting delivery of an
enkephalin analogue by prodrug design, Open Med. Chem. J., 2, 97-100 (2008).
17. S.M. Stevens, Jr., R.S. Duncan, P. Koulen, and L. Prokai, Proteomic analysis of mouse brain microsomes:
Identification and bioinformatic characterization of endoplasmic reticulum neuroproteins, J. Proteome Res., 7,
1045-1054 (2008).
18. S.K. Bhutia, S.K. Mallick, S.M. Stevens, L. Prokai, J.K. Vishwanatha, and T.K. Maiti, Induction of
mitochondria-dependent apoptosis by Abrus agglutinin derived peptides in human cervical cancer cell, Toxicol.
In Vitro, 22, 344-351 (2008).
19. K. Prokai-Tatrai, P. Perjesi, N. Rivera-Portalatin, J.W. Simpkins, and L. Prokai, Mechanistic investigations on
the antioxidant action of a neuroprotective estrogen derivative, Steroids, 73, 280-288 (2008).
20. S.M. Stevens, Jr., N. Rauniyar, and L. Prokai, Rapid characterization of covalent modifications to rat brain
mitochondrial proteins after ex vivo exposure to 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal by liquid chromatography–tandem mass
spectrometry using data dependent and neutral loss-driven MS3 acquisition, J. Mass Spectrom., 42, 15991605 (2007).
21. L. Prokai, L.-J. Yan, J.L. Vera-Serrano, S.M. Stevens, Jr., and M.J. Forster, Mass spectrometry-based
preliminary identification of mitochondrial proteins susceptible to age-related oxidative carbonylation in the rat
brain, J. Mass Spectrom., 42, 1583-1589 (2007).
22. R.M.M. Branca, G. Bodo, C. Bagyinka, and L. Prokai, De novo sequencing of a 21-kDa cytochrome c4 from
Thiocapsa roseopersicina by nanoelectrospray ionization ion-trap and Fourier-transform ion-cyclotron
resonance mass spectrometry, J. Mass Spectrom., 42, 1569-1582 (2007).
23. A.G. Lacko, M. Nair, L. Prokai, and W.J. McConathy, Prospects and challenges of the development of
lipoprotein based drug formulations for anti-cancer drugs, Exp. Opin. Drug. Deliv., 4, 665-675 (2007).
24. N. Rauniyar, S.M. Stevens, Jr., and L. Prokai, Fourier-transform ion-cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
of covalent adducts of proteins and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, a reactive end-product of lipid peroxidation, Anal.
Bioanal. Chem., 389, 1421-1428 (2007).
25. N. Rivera-Portalatin, J.L. Serrano-Vera, K. Prokai-Tatrai, and L. Prokai, Comparison of estrogen-derived
ortho-quinone and para-quinol concerning induction of oxidative stress, J. Steroid Biochem. Mol. Biol., 105, 7175 (2007).
26. K. Prokai-Tatrai, N. Rivera-Portalatin, N. Rauniyar, and L. Prokai, A facile microwave-assisted synthesis of pquinols by lead(IV) acetate oxidation, Lett. Org. Chem., 4, 265-267 (2007).
27. A. Lacko, D.R. Stewart, R. McClain, L. Prokai, and W.J. McConathy, Recent developments and patenting of
lipoprotein based formulations, Rec. Pat. Drug Deliv. Formul., 1, 143-145 (2007).
28. L.-J. Yan, S.-H. Yang, H. Shu, L. Prokai, and M.J. Forster, Histochemical staining and quantification of
dihydrolipoamide dehydrogenase diaphorase activity using blue native PAGE, Electrophoresis, 28, 1036-1045
(2007).
29. M. Teixido, K. Prokai-Tatrai, X. Wang, V. Nguyen, and L. Prokai, Exploratory neuropharmacological evaluation
of a bridged thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogue, Brain Res. Bull., 73, 103-107 (2007).
30. L. Prokai, and J.W. Simpkins, Structure–non-genomic neuroprotection relationship of estrogens and estrogenderived compounds, Pharmacol. Therapeut., 114, 1-12 (2007).
31. V. Nguyen, A.D. Zharikova, and L. Prokai, Evidence for interplay between pGlu-Glu-Pro-NH2 and thyrotropinreleasing hormone in the brain, Neurosci. Lett., 415, 64-67 (2007).
32. S. Yang, L. Prokai, and J.W. Simpkins, Correspondence regarding Schwend and Gustafsson, "False positives
in MALDI-TOF detection of ER beta in mitochondria," Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun., 345, 917-918 (2006).
33. L. Prokai, A.D. Zharikova, A. Juhasz, and K. Prokai-Tatrai, Cardiovascular effects of neuropeptide FF
antagonists, Peptides, 27, 1015-1019 (2006).
34. R.A. Mericle, E.O. Richter, E. Eskioglu, C. Watkins, L. Prokai, and C.S. Santra, Preoperative endovascular
brain mapping: Preliminary concept and feasibility in animal models, J. Neurosurg., 104, 566-573 (2006).
35. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, P. Perjesi and J.W. Simpkins, Mechanistic insights into the direct antioxidant
effects of estrogens, Drug Dev. Res., 66, 118-125 (2006).
36. S.M. Stevens Jr., A.Y. Chung, M.C. Chow, S.H. McClung, C.N. Strachan, A.C. Harmon, N.D. Denslow, and L.
Prokai, Enhancement of phosphoprotein analysis using a fluorescent affinity tag and mass spectrometry,
Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom., 19, 2157-2162 (2005).
37. R.J. Bergeron, N. Bharti, J. Wiegand, J.S. McManis, H. Yao and L. Prokai, Polyamine-vectored iron chelators:
The role of charge, J. Med. Chem., 48, 4120-4137 (2005).
38. K. Prokai-Tatrai, M. Teixido, V. Nguyen, A.D. Zharikova, and L. Prokai, A pyridinium-substituted analogue of
the TRH-like tripeptide pGlu-Glu-Pro-NH2 and its prodrugs as central nervous system agents, Med. Chem., 1,
141-152 (2005).
39. J.W. Simpkins, J. Wang, X. Wang, E. Perez, L. Prokai, and J.A. Dykens, Mitochondria play a central role in
estrogen-induced neuroprotection, Curr. Drug Targets, 4, 69-83 (2005).
40. L. Prokai, A.D. Zharikova, and S.M. Stevens, Jr., The effect of chronic morphine exposure on the synaptic
plasma-membrane subproteome of rats: A differential proteomics study, J. Mass Spectrom., 40, 169-175
(2005).
41. S.M. Stevens, Jr., K. Prokai-Tatrai, and L. Prokai, Screening of combinatorial libraries for substrate preference
by mass spectrometry, Anal. Chem., 77, 698-701 (2005).
42. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, A.D. Zharikova, V. Nguyen, and S.M. Stevens, Jr., Centrally-acting and
metabolically stable thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogues upon replacement of histidine with substituted
pyridinium, J. Med. Chem., 47, 6025-6033 (2004).
43. B.P. Ross, A.C. Braddy, R.P. McGeary, J.T. Blanchfield, L. Prokai, and I. Toth, Membrane partitioning and
micellar aggregation of bile salts, fatty acids, sds, and sugar conjugated fatty acids: correlation with hemolytic
activity. Mol. Pharmaceut., 1, 233-245 (2004).
44. S. Yang, R. Liu, E. J. Perez, Y. Wen, S.M. Stevens, Jr., T. Valencia, A.-M. Brun-Zinkernagel, L. Prokai, Y.
Will, J. Dykens, P. Koulen, and J.W. Simpkins, Mitochondrial localization of estrogen receptor beta, Proc. Natl.
Acad. Sci., 101, 4130-4135 (2004).
45. T. Lorand, E. Ôsz, G. Kispál, G. Nagy, E. Weckert, D. Luebbert, A. Meents, B. Kocsis, and L. Prokai,
Diastereoselective reduction of cyclic bioactive Mannich ketones, Arch. Org. Chem. (ARKIVOC), 7, 34–52
(2004).
46. W.R. Kem, V.M. Mahnir, L. Prokai, R.L. Papke, X. Cao, S. Le Francais, K. Wildeboer, K. Prokai-Tatrai, J.
Porter-Papke, and F. Soti, Hydroxy metabolites of the Alzheimer's drug candidate DMXBA (GTS-21): Their
molecular properties, interactions with brain nicotinic receptors, and brain penetration, Mol. Pharmacol., 65,
56-67 (2004).
47. S.M. Stevens, A.D. Zharikova, and L. Prokai, Proteomic analysis of the synaptic membrane fraction isolated
from rat forebrain, Mol. Brain Res., 117, 116-128 (2003).
48. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, P. Perjesi, A.D. Zharikova, E. Perez, R. Liu, and J.W. Simpkins, Quinol-based
cyclic antioxidant mechanism in estrogen neuroprotection, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci., 100, 11741–11746 (2003).
49. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, P. Perjesi, A.D. Zharikova, and J.W. Simpkins, Quinol-based bioreversible
metabolic cycle for estrogens in rat liver microsomes, Drug Metabol. Disp., 31, 701-704 (2003).
50. K. Prokai-Tatrai, V. Nguyen, A.D. Zharikova, A.C. Braddy, S.M. Stevens, Jr., and L. Prokai, Prodrugs to
enhance central nervous system effects of the TRH-like peptide pGlu-Glu-Pro-NH2, Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett.,
13, 1011-1014 (2003).
51. P. Perjesi, T. Kim, A. Zharikova, X. Li, T. Ramesh, J. Ramasubbu, and L. Prokai, Determination of clodronate
content in liposomal formulation by capillary zone electrophoresis, J. Pharmaceut. Biomed. Anal., 31, 929-935
(2003).
52. S.M. Stevens, Jr., W.R. Kem, and L. Prokai, Investigation of cytolysin variants by peptide mapping: Enhanced
protein characterization using complementary ionization and mass spectrometric techniques, Rapid Commun.
Mass Spectrom., 16, 2094-2101 (2002).
53. T. Lorand, B. Kocsis, P. Sohar, G. Nagy, P. Jozsef, G. Kispal, R. Laszlo, and L. Prokai, Synthesis and
antibacterial effect of fused Mannich ketones, Eur. J. Med. Chem., 37, 803-812 (2002)
54. K. Prokai-Tatrai, P. Perjesi, A.D. Zharikova, X. Li, and L. Prokai, Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of
novel, centrally-acting thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogues, Bioorg. Med. Chem. Lett., 12, 2171-2174
(2002).
55. R. Liu, S.-H. Yang, E. Perez, K. D. Yi, S.S. Wu, K. Eberst, L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, Z.Y. Cai, D.F. Covey,
A.L. Day, and J. W. Simpkins, Neuroprotective effects of a novel non-receptor binding estrogen analogue: In
vitro and in vivo analysis, Stroke, 33, 2485-2491 (2002).
56. T. Lorand, P. Forgo, A. Földesi, E. Ôsz, and L. Prokai, Improved solvent-free synthesis and structure
elucidation of (E)- and (Z)-4-arylmethylene-3-isochomanones, Eur. J. Org. Chem., 2996-3003 (2002).
57. L. Prokai, and A. Zharikova, Neuropharmacodynamic evaluation of a centrally active thyrotropin-releasing
hormone analogue [Leu2]TRH and its chemical brain-targeting system, Brain Res., 952, 268-274 (2002).
58. A.C. Braddy, T. Janaky, and L. Prokai, Immobilized artificial membrane chromatography coupled with
atmospheric pressure ionization mass spectrometry, J. Chromatogr. A, 966, 81-87 (2002).
59. A. Zharikova, S. Zharikov, E. Block, L. Prokai, Metabolism of dynorphin A1-8 by peptidases of the pulmonary
artery endothelial cells, Endothelium, 9, 37-44 (2002).
60. L. Prokai, Zharikova, A., Janáky T., Li, X., Braddy, A.C., Perjési P., Matveeva, L., Powell, D.H., Prokai-Tatrai
K., Integration of mass spectrometry into early-phase discovery and development of central nervous system
agents, J. Mass Spectrom., 36, 1211-1219 (2001).
61. Y. Liang, S. Belford, F. Tang, J.W. Simpkins, L. Prokai, J.A. Hughes, Membrane fluidity effects of estratrienes,
Brain Res. Bull., 54, 661-668 (2001).
62. L. Prokai, Characterization of macromolecules by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, Int. J. Polym.
Anal. Charact., 6, 379-391 (2001).
63. L. Prokai, Prokai-Tatrai K., Zharikova, A., Li, X., Rocca, J.R., Combinatorial lead-optimization of a
neuropeptide FF antagonist, J. Med. Chem., 44, 1623-1626 (2001).
64. L. Prokai, Oon, S.-M., Prokai-Tatrai K., Abboud, K.A., Simpkins, J.W., Synthesis and biological evaluation of
17-alkoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trienes as potential neuroprotectants against oxidative stress, J. Med. Chem., 44,
110-114 (2001).
65. Benedek Cs., L. Prokai, Törös Sz., Heil B., Diastereoselective hydroalkoxycarbonylation of terpenes and vinylestrone, J. Mol. Catal. A, 165, 15-21 (2001).
66. L. Prokai, Zharikova, A., Janáky T., Prokai-Tatrai K., Exploratory pharmacokinetics and brain distribution study
of a neuropeptide FF antagonist by liquid chromatography/atmospheric pressure ionization tandem mass
spectrometry, Rapid Commun. Mass Spectrom., 14, 2412-2418 (2000).
67. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, and N. Bodor , Targeting drugs to the brain by redox chemical delivery systems,
Med. Res. Reviews, 20, 367-416 (2000).
68. S.-H. Yoon, J. Wu, W.-M. Wu, L. Prokai, and N. Bodor, Brain-targeted chemical delivery of [Leu2, Pip3]-TRH:
Synthesis and biological evaluation, Bioorg. Med. Chem., 8, 1059-1063 (2000).
69. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, X. Ouyang, W.-M. Wu, H.-S. Kim, A. Zharikova, and N. Bodor, Metabolism-based
brain-targeting system for a thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogue, J. Med. Chem., 42, 4563-4571 (1999).
70. D. J. Aaserud, L. Prokai, and W. J. Simonsick, Jr., Gel permeation chromatography coupled to Fourier
transform mass spectrometry for polymer characterization, Anal. Chem., 71, 4793-4799 (1999).
71. L. Prokai and K. Prokai-Tatrai, Metabolism-based drug design and drug targeting, Pharm. Sci. Tech. Today, 2,
457-463 (1999).
72. E. Pop, S. Rachwal, J. Vlasak, A. Biegon, A. Zharikova, and L. Prokai, In vitro and in vivo study of some
water-soluble prodrugs of dexanabinol, J. Pharm. Sci., 88, 1156-1160 (1999).
73. G. Brazeau, J. Hughes, and L. Prokai, Use of problem based discussion sessions in a first year
pharmaceutical dosage forms course, Am. J. Pharm. Educ., 63, 85-97 (1999).
74. L. Prokai, D.J. Aaserud, and W.J. Simonsick, Jr., Microcolumn size-exclusion chromatography coupled with
electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, J. Chromatogr., 835, 121-126 (1999).
75. L. Prokai and A. Zharikova, Identification of synaptic metabolites of dynorphin A (1-8) by electrospray
ionization and tandem mass spectrometry, Rapid Commun. Mass Spectrom.,12, 1796-1800 (1998).
76. E. Pop., B. Rachwal, S. Rachwal, J. Vlasak, M. Brewster, and L. Prokai, Synthesis of deuterated dexanabinol,
J. Labeled Comp. Radiopharm., 41, 885-897 (1998).
77. L. Prokai, H.-S. Kim, J. Roboz, L. Ma, and L. Deng, Electrospray ionization mass spectrometric studies on the
metabolism of synthetic dynorphin A peptides in brain tissue in vitro and in vivo, J. Chromatogr., 800, 59-68
(1998).
78. P. Chen, N. Bodor, W.-M. Wu, and L. Prokai, Strategies to target kyotorphin analogs to the brain, J. Med.
Chem., 41, 3773-3781 (1998).
79. N. Bodor, K. Prokai-Tatrai, E. Koltai, and L. Prokai, Preparation of o-(3,3,8,10,10-pentamethyl-1,2-dithia-5,8diaza-cyclodecan-5-yl)-ethyl-o-pivaloyloxymethylene-p-phenylphosphonate: Potential synthetic precursor for
ligands of a 99mTc-labeled brain-imaging agent, Org. Prep. Proc. Int., 30, 521-525 (1998).
80. G. Somogyi, P. Buchwald, D. Nohmi, L. Prokai, and N. Bodor, Targeted drug delivery to the brain via
phosphonate derivatives II. Anionic chemical delivery system for zidovudine (AZT), Int. J. Pharm., 166, 27-35
(1998).
81. G. Somogyi, S. Nishitani, D. Nohmi, P. Buchwald, L. Prokai, and N. Bodor, Targeted drug delivery to the brain
via phosphonate derivatives I. Design, synthesis and evaluation of an anionic chemical delivery system for
testosterone, Int. J. Pharm., 166, 15-26 (1998).
82. L. Prokai, X. Ouyang, K. Prokai-Tatrai, J.W. Simpkins, and N. Bodor, Synthesis and behavioral evaluation of a
chemical brain-targeting system for a thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogue, Eur. J. Med. Chem., 33,
879-886 (1998).
83. N. Bodor, H. Farag, G. Somogyi, W.-M. Wu, M.D.C. Barros, and L. Prokai, Ocular-specific delivery of timolol
by sequential bioactivation of its oxime and methoxime analogs, J. Ocular Pharm. Ther., 13, 389-403 (1997).
84. H. Farag, W.-M. Wu, M.D.C. Barros, G. Somogyi, L. Prokai, and N. Bodor, Ocular-specific chemical delivery
systems for betaxolol for safe local treatment of glaucoma, Drug Design Discov., 15, 117-130 (1997).
85. G. Osapay, L. Prokai, H.-S.Kim, K. F. Medzihradszky, D. H. Coy, G. Liapakis, T. Reisine, G. Melacini, Q. Zhu,
S. H.-H. Wang, R.-H. Mattern, and M. Goodman, Lanthionine-somatostatin analogs, characterization,
biological activity and enzymatic stability studies, J. Med. Chem. 40, 2241-2251 (1997).
86. L. Prokai, Peptide delivery into the central nervous system: invasive, physiological and chemical approaches,
Exp. Opin. Ther. Patents, 7, 233-245 (1997).
87. L. Prokai, R. Ramanathan, J. Nawrocki, and J. Eyler, Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry of
cyclodextrin complexes of amino acids and peptides, J. Incl. Phenom. Mol. Recogn., 25, 117-120 (1996).
88. L. Prokai, Delivery of peptides into the central nervous system, Drug Discovery Today 1, 161-168 (1996).
89. K. Prokai-Tatrai, L. Prokai, and N. Bodor, Brain-targeting of a leucine-enkephaline analogue by retrometabolic
design, J. Med. Chem., 39, 4775-4782 (1996).
90. N. Bodor, L. Prokai, W.-M. Wu, G. Somogyi, and H. Farag, Sequential bioactivation of methoxime analogs of
ß-adrenergic antagonists in the eye, J. Ocular Pharmacol. Ther., 11, 305-318 (1995).
91. R. Ramanathan and L. Prokai, Electrospray ionization mass spectrometric study of encapsulation of amino
acids by cyclodextrins, J. Am. Soc. Mass Spectrom., 6, 866-871 (1995).
92. L. Prokai, W.-M. Wu, G. Somogyi, and N. Bodor, Ocular delivery of the beta-adrenergic antagonist alprenolol
by sequential bioactivation of its metoxime analogue, J. Med. Chem., 38, 2018-2020 (1995).
93. L. Prokai, Analytical challenges in chemical-enzymatic drug targeting, Adv. Drug Delivery Rev., 14, 301-317
(1994).
94. J.W. Simpkins, X. Ouyang, L. Prokai, and N. Bodor, Delivery of peptides into the central nervous system by
molecular packaging and sequential metabolism as a method to alter neuropeptide activity during aging,
Neuroprotocols: A Companion to Methods in Neuroscience , 4, 225-234 (1994).
95. V. Larsimont, L. Prokai, and G. Hochhaus, Leucine enkephalin - tyrosinase reaction products: Identification by
mass spectrometry and biological activity, Biochim. Biophys. Acta, 1222, 95-100 (1994).
96. L. Prokai, X. Ouyang, W.-M. Wu, and N. Bodor, Chemical delivery system to transport a pyroglutamyl peptide
amide to the central nervous system, J. Am. Chem. Soc., 116, 2643-2644 (1994).
97. L. Prokai, and W.J. Simonsick, Jr., Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry coupled with size exclusion
chromatography, Rapid Commun. Mass Spectrom., 7, 853-856 (1993).
98. L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, E. Pop, N. Bodor, J. Roboz, and J. Lango, Fast atom bombardment and tandem
mass spectrometry of quaternary pyridinium-substituted tryptophans, Org. Mass Spectrom., 28, 707-715
(1993).
99. L. Prokai, and W.J. Simonsick, Jr., Direct mass spectrometric analysis of phenol-formaldehyde
oligocondensates: A comparative desorption ionization study, Macromolecules, 25, 6532-6539 (1992).
100. N. Bodor, L. Prokai, W.M. Wu, H. Farag, S. Jonalagadda, M. Kawamura, and J. Simpkins, A strategy for
delivering peptides into the central nervous system by sequential metabolism, Science, 257, 1698-1700
(1992).
101. N. Bodor, and L. Prokai, Intermediates of the borane reduction of some imidazolidines: An AM1 Study, Int. J.
Quant. Chem., 44, 795-805 (1992).
102. N. Bodor, E. Koltai, and L. Prokai, Borohydride reduction of imidazolidino-[1,2-d]dithiazepines, Tetrahedron,
48, 4767-4772 (1992).
103. L. Prokai and N. Bodor, Reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography - thermospray mass
spectrometry of alprenolol and its ketoxime analogues, J. Chromatogr., 541, 474-479 (1991).
104. L. Prokai, A. Simay, and N. Bodor, Reversed- phase high-performance liquid chromatography of ketoxime
analogues of -adrenergic blockers, J. Chromatogr., 541, 469-473 (1991).
105. N. Bodor, and L. Prokai, Site- and stereospecific drug delivery by sequential enzymatic bioactivation, Pharm.
Res., 7, 723-725 (1990).
106. G. Somogyi, Z. Dinya, and A. Lacziko,and L. Prokai, Mass spectrometric identification of thin-layer
chromatographic spots: Implementation of a modified Wick-Stick technique, J. Planar Chromatogr., 3, 191-193
(1990).
107. G. Somogyi, M. Varga, L. Prokai, Z. Dinya, and L. Buris, Drug identification problems in two suicides with
neuromuscular blocking agents, Forensic Sci. Int., 43, 257-266 (1989).
108. A. Simay, L. Prokai, and N. Bodor, Oxidation of aryloxyaminoalcohols with activated dimethyl-sulfoxide: A
novel C-N oxidation, facilitated by neighboring group effect, Tetrahedron, 45, 4091-4102 (1989).
109. L. Prokai, T. Lorand, and A. Foldesi, Mass spectra of some 2-amino-4H-3,1-benzothiazine and
2-amino-4H-pyrido[4,3-D] [1,3]thiazine derivatives, Org. Mass Spectrom., 24, 517-519 (1989).
110. L. Prokai, B.-H. Hsu, H. Farag, and N. Bodor, Desorption chemical ionization, thermospray and fast atom
bombardment mass spectrometry of dihydropyridine - pyridinium salt-type redox systems, Anal. Chem., 61,
1723-1728 (1989).
111. L. Prokai, Pyrolysis - mass spectrometric investigation of the mechanistic and kinetic aspects of the thermal
degradation of phenol-formaldehyde polycondensates, J. Anal. Appl. Pyrolysis, 12, 265-283 (1987).
112. L. Prokai, Preparation and mass spectrometric characterization of deuterium-labelled phenol-formaldehyde
condensates, Acta Chim. Acad. Sci. Hung., 124, 901- (1987).
113. L. Prokai, and L. Bencze, Electron impact induced fragmentation of 2-carbonylated bicylco[2,2,1]heptane
stereoisomers, Org. Mass Spectrom., 21, 384-386 (1986).
114. L. Prokai, Investigation of phenol-formaldehyde condensates by field desorption mass spectrometry, J. Polym.
Sci.: Polym. Lett., 24, 223-227 (1986).
115. L. Prokai, Separation and identification of phenol-formaldehyde condensates by gas chromatography - mass
spectrometry. IV. Application of a stationary phase of intermediate polarity to the analysis of methylolated
dihydroxydiphenylmethanes, J. Chromatogr., 356, 331-333 (1986).
116. L. Bencze, and L. Prokai, Novel mechanism for the carbonylation and hydroformylation of olefins via carbene
and ketene type intermediates, J. Organomet. Chem., 294, C5-C8 (1985).
117. L. Bencze, A. Kraut-Vass, and L. Prokai, Mechanism of initiation of the metathesis of norbornene using
W(CO)3Cl2(AsPh3)2 as catalyst, J. Chem. Soc., Chem. Commun., 911-912 (1985).
118. L. Prokai, Separation and identification of phenol-formaldehyde condensates by gas chromatography - mass
spectrometry. III. Hemiformal isomers in resol, J. Chromatogr., 333, 161-166 (1985).
119. L. Prokai, Separation and identification of phenol-formaldehyde condensates by gas chromatography - mass
spectrometry. II. Base-catalysed condensation products, J. Chromatogr., 331, 91-98 (1985).
120. L. Prokai, Separation and identification of phenol-formaldehyde condensates by gas chromatography - mass
spectrometry. I. Acid-catalysed condensation products, J. Chromatogr., 329, 290-294 (1985).
121. J. Deli, T. Lorand, A. Foldesi, and L. Prokai, Synthesis of 2-amino-4-aryl-5,6- dihydrobenzo[h]quinazolines and
their derivatives, Acta Chim. Acad. Sci. Hung., 117, 293-305 (1984).
122. L. Prokai, and J. Toth, Investigations on the evaporation phenomena in the plastic-bonded electrodes used in
emission spectroscopy by radioisotope labeling, J. Radioanal. Nucl. Chem., 87, 231-238 (1984).
123. J. Toth, and L. Prokai, Study of electrodes used in emission spectrography by radioisotope labeling,
Izotoptechnika, 23, 190-195 (1980).
124. J. Toth, and L. Prokai, A study of carbon electrodes, used in emission spectrography, by radioisotope
labelling, Izotoptechnika, 23, 84-92 (1980).
b. Full-length papers -- in press
125. E. Engler-Chiurazzi, C. Tsang, S. Nonnenmacher; W. Liang, J. Corneveaux, L. Prokai, M. Huentelman, and
H.A. Bimonte-Nelson, Tonic Premarin dose-dependently enhances memory, affects neurotrophin protein and
alters gene expression in middle-aged rats, Neurobiol. Aging, in press.
doi:10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2009.09.005
126. V. Nguyen, A.D. Zharikova, K. Prokai-Tatrai, and L. Prokai, [Glu2]TRH dose-dependently attenuates TRHevoked analeptic effect in the mouse brain, Brain Res. Bull., in press. doi:10.1016/j.brainresbull.2010.02.007
c. Full-length papers -- submitted
6
d. Chapters, reviews, books
Book authored:
1.
L. Prokai, Field Desorption Mass Spectrometry, Practical Spectroscopy Monograph Series, Marcel Dekker,
New York, 1990, pp. 304.
Book edited:
2.
L. Prokai and K. Prokai-Tatrai, Peptide Transport and Delivery Into the Central Nervous System, Progress in
Drug Research, Vol. 61, Birkhäuser, Basel, 2003, pp. 245.
Book chapters:
3.
L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, W.-M. Wu, J. Wu, X. Ouyang, H.-S. Kim, A. Zharikova, J. Simpkins, and N. Bodor,
Brain delivery and targeting of thyrotropin-releasing hormone analogs by covalent packaging and sequential
metabolism, in Peptides: Chemistry, Structure and Biology (J.P. Tam and P.T.P. Kaumaya, Eds.), Kluver
Academic, Dordrecht, The Netherlands, 1998, 834-836.
4.
L. Prokai, Application of mass spectrometry in brain research: neurotransmitters, neuropeptides and brain
proteins, Chapter 18 in Medical Applications of Mass Spectrometry (K. Vekey, A. Telekes, A. Vertes, Eds.),
Elsevier, Amsterdam, 2008, 407-424.
5.
K. Prokai-Tatrai and L. Prokai, The impact of metabolism on the safety of estrogen therapy, in Annals of the
New York Academy of Sciences, Vol. 1052 (M. Singh, Ed.), New York Academy of Sciences, New York, NY,
2005, 243-257.
6.
L. Prokai, S.M. Stevens, Jr., and W.J. Simonsick, Jr., Size-exclusion chromatography coupled to mass
spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry for oligomer analysis, in Multiple Detection in Size-Exclusion
Chromatography (A.M. Striegel, Ed.), ACS Books, Washington, DC, 2005, 196-207.
7.
L. Prokai, V. Nguyen, B.R. Jasti, and T.K. Gosh, Principles and application of surface phenomena, in Theory
and Practice of Contemporary Pharmaceutics (T.K. Ghosh , B.R. Jasti, Eds.), CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL,
2004, 165-196.
8.
A.M. Persky, L. Prokai, and J.A. Hughes, States of matter, in Theory and Practice of Contemporary
Pharmaceutics (T.K. Ghosh, B.R. Jasti, Eds.), CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 2004, 31-53.
9.
L. Prokai, S. M. Stevens, Jr., and K. Prokai-Tatrai, Chirality-based isotope labeling in library of substrates
(CHILLS) to screen for enzyme preference by mass spectrometry. In Peptide Revolution: Genomics,
Proteomics & Therapeutics (M. Chorev and T.K.Sawyer, Eds.), American Peptide Society, Cardiff, CA, 2004,
869-870.
10. K. Prokai-Tatrai and L. Prokai, Modifying peptide properties by prodrug design for enhanced transport into the
CNS, in Progress in Drug Research, Vol. 61 (L. Prokai, K. Prokai-Tatrai, Eds.), Birkhäuser, Basel, 2003, 155188.
11. L. Prokai, Central nervous system effects of thyrotropin-releasing hormone and its analogues: opportunities
and perspectives for drug discovery and development, in Progress in Drug Research, Vol. 59 (E.M. Jucker,
Ed.), Birkhäuser, Basel, 2002, 133-170.
12. L. Prokai, Targeting drugs into the central nervous system, Chapter 19 in Biomedical Aspects of Drug
Targeting (V. Muzykantov and V. Torchilin, Eds.), Kluwer Academic, Dordrecht, The Netherlands, 2002, 359380.
13. L. Prokai, Electrospray ionization and on-line LC/MS, Chapter 4 in Mass Spectrometry of Polymers (G.
Montaudo and R.P. Lattimer, Eds.), CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL, 2002, 149-180.
14. L. Prokai, Zharikova, A., Nguyen, V., Li, X., Antagonism of the neurochemical effect of thyrotropin-releasing
hormone by its peptide analog, in Peptides: The Wave of the Future (M. Lebl and R.A. Houghten, Eds.),
Kluwer Academic, Dordrecht, The Netherlands, 2002, 980-981.
15. L. Prokai and K. Prokai-Tatrai, Prodrugs, Chapter 12 in Pain, Irritation and Muscle Damage with Injectable
Products, P. Gupta and G. Brazeau, Eds., Interpharm Press, Englewood, CO, 1999, 267-306.
16. L. Prokai, Peptide drug delivery into the central nervous system, in Progress in Drug Research, Vol. 51 (E.M.
Jucker, Ed.), Birkhäuser, Basel, 1998, 95-131.
17. W.J. Simonsick, Jr., and L. Prokai, Size exclusion chromatography with electrospray mass spectrometric
detection, Chapter 4 in Hyphenated Techniques in Polymer Characterization (T. Provder, H. Barth, M.W.
Urban, Eds.), ACS Books, Washington, D.C., 1995, 41-56.
18. N. Bodor and L. Prokai, Molecular packaging: Peptide delivery to the CNS by sequential metabolism, Chapter
14 in Peptide-Based Drug Design: Controlling Transport and Metabolism (M. Taylor, G. Amidon, Eds.), ACS
Books, Washington, D.C., 1995, 317-337.
19. N. Bodor and L. Prokai, Delivery of peptides into the central nervous system by sequential metabolism, in
Peptides: Chemistry, Structure and Biology (R.S. Hodges and J.A. Smith, Eds.), ESCOM, Amsterdam, 1994,
pp. 830-833.
Book review:
Prokai L. Book Review: Cancer Proteomics - From Bench to Bedside (Daoud SS, Ed.),. ChemMedChem., 4, 19491951 (2009).