Mary Jeanne Kreek

Lifetime Science Award Dr. Kreek (23420513281)

Mary Jeanne Kreek (1940 – 2021) was an American neuroscientist and pharmacologist renowned for her pioneering research in the field of addiction and opioid addiction treatment. She was a key figure in the development of methadone maintenance therapy for heroin addiction.

Early Life and Education

Mary Jeanne Kreek was born in 1940. She pursued her undergraduate studies at Wellesley College, where she graduated with a degree in chemistry. She then attended Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, earning her M.D. degree.

Career

Kreek began her career at The Rockefeller University in the 1960s, where she worked alongside Vincent Dole and Marie Nyswander. Together, they conducted groundbreaking research on the use of methadone as a treatment for heroin addiction. This work laid the foundation for methadone maintenance therapy, which has since become a standard treatment for opioid addiction.

Throughout her career, Kreek focused on the biological and genetic factors that contribute to addiction. She conducted extensive research on the neurobiology of addiction, exploring how genetic variations can influence an individual's susceptibility to addiction and their response to treatment.

Research Contributions

Kreek's research significantly advanced the understanding of the endogenous opioid system and its role in addiction. She identified specific genetic markers associated with increased risk for addiction and developed new approaches to treatment based on these findings. Her work has had a lasting impact on the field of addiction medicine and has helped to improve the lives of countless individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

Awards and Honors

Mary Jeanne Kreek received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including recognition from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and other prestigious organizations. She was a member of several professional societies and served on various advisory boards and committees related to addiction research and treatment.

Legacy

Kreek's contributions to the field of addiction research have left a lasting legacy. Her work has paved the way for new treatments and has provided a deeper understanding of the biological underpinnings of addiction. She is remembered as a trailblazer in the field and a dedicated advocate for individuals affected by substance use disorders.

See Also

• Methadone
• Opioid addiction
• Vincent Dole
• Marie Nyswander
• The Rockefeller University
• National Institute on Drug Abuse