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The University of Southampton
Medicine

Southampton medical students wins prestigious national award

Published: 14 June 2018
Jocelyn Cheuk
Jocelyn Cheuk

A Southampton medical student has gained the top prize in the prestigious Dr Falk Pharma UK/Core Charity national awards for her research work, into the link between the gut microbiome and the development of obesity and Type 2 Diabetes.

Jocelyn Cheuk’s research investigated the underlying metabolic mechanisms that link one single gene defect with the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

She said: “The results so far have already shown that the change of living environment (change of gut microbiome) significantly modulates the gene expressions and clinical presentations of metabolic pathways in genetically susceptible individuals.

“I am now hoping to extend my work into other key metabolic organs such as the pancreas and small intestines, as well as other components of the signalling pathways in order to further dissect the potential underlying mechanisms. I hope that my research will bring new insights into the preventative measures and effective treatments for obesity.”

Jocelyn, whose research was carried out as a student at the University of Southampton, was presented with the Dr Falk Pharma UK/Core Charity Medical Student Prize of £1,500 at the British Society of Gastroenterology Annual Meeting.

The Dr Falk Pharma UK/Core Awards, now celebrating its eleventh year, are dedicated to encouraging research and promoting patient care in the field of gastroenterology and hepatology

Jocelyn added: “I am honoured to receive the Core Dr Falk Medical Student Prize this year – it has definitely encouraged and inspired me to undertake further work within the discipline.”

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