Fructose malabsorption is also known as fructose intolerance and affects 1 in 3 people. Fructose builds up in the small intestine and gets fermented by the gastric bacteria forming colonic gas. The condition is associated with abdominal complaints such as flatulence, pain and diarrhoea. The pathophysiology of the condition is still unclear, and the available treatments are very limited. Fructose scavenging offers a viable approach to treat patients with fructose intolerance. This project will investigate the synthesis of boronic acid-containing molecules and their fructose binding potential. In addition, medicinal chemistry optimisation of promising sugar binders will be undertaken to introduce drug-like properties
I am an organic chemist, recently graduated from undergraduate studies in chemistry (BSc), starting my career in research with a PhD. In addition to graduating with a first class degree, I was grateful to be awarded by the RSC for best overall performance on the BSc (Hons) Chemistry degree.