Person Gilbert; Harry John (1953-2025); biochemist Gilbert Harry John biochemist 1953-2025 British Male United Kingdom 13 July 1953 19530713 20 September 2025 20250920

Biochemist Nutrition Environmental sciences Earth Science Virology Bacteriology Cell biology Structural biology Biophysics Molecular Biology Biochemistry Education: King Alfred School, Golders Green, North London; University of Southampton BSc 1975; PhD 1978 Career: Lecturer, Newcastle University, UK (1985); Professor of Agricultural Biochemistry and Nutrition, Institute for Cell and Molecular Biosciences, Newcastle University, UK; Eminent Scholar in Bioenergy at the University of Georgia, USA (2008-2010). Memberships: FMedSci His research focussed on enzymes, primarily glycoside hydrolases, which attack complex carbohydrates. These enzymes are of considerable biological and industrial importance. Harry used structure-function studies to dissect the contribution of non-catalytic carbohydrate binding modules (CBMs) in targeting enzymes to complex insoluble structures exemplified by the plant cell wall, thereby overcoming the access problem. Eextended his studies on CBMs to explore how glycoside hydrolases are able to select specific substrates and modes of action. Using structure-based strategies, Harry exploited this fundamental understanding of enzyme specificity to engineer novel catalytic functions into these biological catalysts. Dissected the mechanisms of glycans utilization by human gut bacteria, the microbiota. His work has led to the presentation of a selfish model for the metabolism of highly complex carbohydrates by members of this ecosystem. Harry's work had implications on resource allocation within the human microbiota, which could impact on dietary strategies that maximise the impact of this microbial ecosystem on health. Fellow 28/04/2016 62 The Royal Society Fellows Directory, Professor Harry Gilbert FMedSci FRS, [URL: https://royalsociety.org/people/harry-gilbert-12868/; last accessed: 21/10/2025] International Standard Archival Authority Record for Corporate Bodies, Persons and Families - ISAAR(CPF) 2nd edition - ICA 2004 ISBN 2-9521932-2-3 National Council on Archives, Rules for the Construction of Personal, Place and Corporate Names, 1997 The past Fellows entries are under continuous revision. If you have queries or additional information to contribute, please contact Library@royalsociety.org. Content in external sources is not controlled by the Royal Society and historical sources may include content that is now unacceptable. Reviewed on 21/10/2025 as part of the Name Authority Project update. NA10056 21/07/2016 Joanna 21/10/2025 RS_NET\VidaM Yes eaee5d5c-e085-43a5-8a3e-23651971f060