Bettie Sue Masters

Bettie Sue Masters is an American biochemist known for her significant contributions to the field of biochemistry. She has made pioneering advancements in the study of nitric oxide synthase and cytochrome P450 enzymes.

Early Life and Education

Bettie Sue Masters was born in Pocahontas, Arkansas. She completed her undergraduate studies at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry. She then pursued her doctoral studies at Duke University, obtaining a Ph.D. in biochemistry.

Career and Research

Masters began her academic career as a postdoctoral fellow at Duke University, where she worked on the characterization of flavoproteins. She later joined the faculty at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA), where she became a full professor and held the prestigious Robert A. Welch Distinguished Chair in Chemistry.

Her research has focused on the enzymatic mechanisms and structures of nitric oxide synthase and cytochrome P450 enzymes. These enzymes play crucial roles in various physiological processes, including drug metabolism, steroid synthesis, and the regulation of blood pressure.

Awards and Honors

Bettie Sue Masters has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to biochemistry. Some of her notable recognitions include:

• Election to the National Academy of Sciences
• The FASEB Excellence in Science Award
• The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) William C. Rose Award

Professional Memberships

Masters is a member of several professional organizations, including:

• American Chemical Society (ACS)
• American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB)
• Biophysical Society

Personal Life

Bettie Sue Masters is married and has two children. She continues to be active in the scientific community, mentoring young scientists and contributing to various research initiatives.

See Also

• Biochemistry
• Nitric oxide synthase
• Cytochrome P450
• University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
• National Academy of Sciences