Jason A. Gandelman
Connecticut
Jason A. Gandelman, 17, of Westport, entered a biochemistry project in the Intel
Science Talent Search that investigated toxic compounds called Advanced
Glycation End-products (AGEs), which are known to contribute to the long-term
health problems associated with diabetes. Jason's study showed that yeast had
evolved mechanisms to minimize the formation of toxic AGE compounds. He is now
attempting to identify a protein that will block the human body's receptor sites
from binding with AGEs. Jason believes his study will lead to new medications to
prevent or cure blood vessel and kidney damage associated with diabetes. His
research was inspired by his family's long history with the disease. Jason is
president of the Staples High School engineering team, investment club and
debate team, which finished third at the Harvard National Debate Tournament. He
counts stock investment as a hobby, and has served on the Westport Youth
Commission for four years. A long-time volunteer, he has received recognition
for his water quality work with Earthplace. Jason is the son of Mitchell and
Kuan Gandelman, is fluent in Mandarin Chinese, and aspires to continue conducting research in biological chemistry in college.
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