Jakeman Research Group
Our fundamental basic science research projects involve studying enzymes involved in carbohydrate biosynthesis, cellular glycosylation and glycosylated natural products (several are important clinically used drugs). The aims: to inhibit certain enzymes in carbohydrate biosynthesis or to modify the structures of glycosylated natural products in order to modify their chemical and biological properties.
Each lab member (trainee / researcher) has different interests, so each aquires expertise in a variety of complementary areas: carbohydrates, natural products, biological, organic, or medicinal chemistry, NMR spectroscopy, chemical biology, enzyme catalysis, or protein engineering.
Whatever their project, everyone enhances problem-solving, communication and leadership skills.
Applications of the research discoveries made in the group may offer new insights to treat infectious diseases, cancer, inflammation or diabetes.