Eva Neer

American physician and biochemist

Eva Neer, American physician and biochemist

Eva Julia Neer (1937 – 2000) was a pioneering American physician and biochemist known for her groundbreaking research in the field of biochemistry, particularly in the study of G proteins and their role in cellular signaling. Her work significantly advanced the understanding of how cells communicate and respond to external stimuli, which has implications for numerous physiological processes and diseases.

Early life and education

Eva Neer was born in Warsaw, Poland, in 1937. Her family emigrated to the United States during her childhood, settling in New York City. Neer demonstrated an early aptitude for science and pursued her undergraduate studies at Barnard College, where she graduated with a degree in chemistry. She continued her education at Columbia University, earning her MD degree.

Career

After completing her medical degree, Neer joined the faculty at Harvard Medical School, where she began her research career. Her work focused on the molecular mechanisms of cell signaling, particularly the role of G proteins. G proteins are a family of proteins involved in transmitting chemical signals from outside the cell to the inside, playing a crucial role in various physiological processes.

Neer's research was instrumental in elucidating the structure and function of G proteins. She discovered that these proteins act as molecular switches, turning on and off in response to signals received by cell surface receptors. This discovery was pivotal in understanding how cells perceive and respond to their environment, influencing research in fields such as neuroscience, cardiology, and oncology.

Contributions to science

Eva Neer's contributions to science extended beyond her research on G proteins. She was a dedicated mentor and educator, training numerous students and postdoctoral fellows who went on to have successful careers in science and medicine. Her work laid the foundation for the development of new therapeutic strategies targeting G protein-coupled receptors, which are implicated in a wide range of diseases.

Awards and recognition

Throughout her career, Neer received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to science and medicine. She was elected to the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, reflecting her status as a leader in her field. Her research has had a lasting impact on the scientific community and continues to influence studies in cellular signaling.

Personal life

Eva Neer was married to Bert L. Vallee, a fellow scientist, and they had two children. She balanced her professional and personal life with grace, often speaking about the importance of family and work-life balance.

Legacy

Eva Neer's legacy lives on through her scientific contributions and the many students she mentored. Her work on G proteins remains a cornerstone of cellular biology, and her influence is felt in the ongoing research into cell signaling and its implications for human health.

Related pages

• G protein-coupled receptor
• Cell signaling
• Biochemistry
• Harvard Medical School