Description of position DC05

In nature, glycosylation reactions are carried out by glycosyltransferases with unmatched regio- and stereoselectivities. Through this thesis project, we propose to draw inspiration from the enzymatic approach thanks to the predictable folding of a unique class of molecules, aromatic oligoamide foldamers. The latter can be designed to fold into helices with varying diameters, thereby creating capsules or cones with cavities decorated with numerous H-bond donors and acceptors that can surround guests such as carbohydrates. Such containers are ideal for developing activity in supramolecular catalysis or as supramolecular protecting groups since they can already accomplish the first step of enzymatic activity: molecular recognition.

Activity:
– Synthetic organic chemistry in solution and on solid support
– Structural analyzes and biophysical methods (NMR, X-ray, CD, Mass spectrometry)

Location:
Institute CBMN, building IECB (http://www.iecb.u-bordeaux.fr/index.php/en). CBMN is a dynamic and interdisciplinary research center located on the campus of the University of Bordeaux, France. The laboratory is perfectly equipped for chemical synthesis and the institute is equipped with technological platforms combining cutting-edge instrumentation and expertise in biophysical measurements and structural biology. The project is interdisciplinary and combines partner laboratories in other universities with mission possibilities.
A specific collaboration with the Ivan Huc@LMU group has been established through the creation of CNRS/UB/LMU project on Foldamers Structures and Functions (https://www.irp-foldsfun.cnrs.fr/).

Health and Safety constraints related to the handling of chemicals. The chemical synthesis experiments will be carried out in a laboratory equipped and functional in terms of hoods.