Michael M. Gottesman

Michael Gottesman (41871897991)

Michael M. Gottesman is an American biochemist and geneticist renowned for his extensive research in multidrug resistance in cancer cells. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of how cancer cells develop resistance to multiple drugs, a major obstacle in effective cancer treatment. Gottesman currently serves as the Deputy Director for Intramural Research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where he oversees the scientific research programs of the NIH's numerous institutes and centers.

Early Life and Education

Michael M. Gottesman was born in the United States. He pursued his undergraduate education at Harvard University, where he majored in Biochemistry. After completing his bachelor's degree, Gottesman attended Harvard Medical School, earning his M.D. His early interest in the mechanisms by which cells resist chemical compounds led him to focus his research on the biochemistry and genetics of multidrug resistance in cancer.

Career

After completing his medical training, Gottesman joined the National Institutes of Health as a research scientist. Over the years, he has held various positions within the NIH, contributing significantly to its research output. His work has primarily focused on the P-glycoprotein, a protein that cancer cells express to pump out anticancer drugs, thereby resisting chemotherapy treatments.

Gottesman's research has been pivotal in understanding the genetic and molecular bases of multidrug resistance, leading to the development of new strategies to combat this phenomenon in cancer therapy. His studies have explored the role of ABC transporters in drug resistance, shedding light on how these proteins can be targeted to improve cancer treatment outcomes.

Contributions to Science

One of Gottesman's key contributions to science is the discovery and characterization of the MDR1 gene, which encodes the P-glycoprotein. This work has not only advanced our understanding of drug resistance in cancer cells but also has implications for the treatment of other diseases where drug transport plays a crucial role.

In addition to his research, Gottesman has played a significant role in mentoring the next generation of scientists. He has been involved in various educational initiatives and programs at the NIH, aimed at fostering young researchers' careers in biomedical science.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Michael M. Gottesman has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to medical science and research. These accolades reflect his impact on the field of cancer research and his commitment to advancing human health.

Current Role

As the Deputy Director for Intramural Research at the NIH, Gottesman is responsible for overseeing the internal research programs across all NIH institutes and centers. In this role, he ensures that the NIH's research efforts are coordinated, innovative, and of the highest scientific caliber.

Legacy

Michael M. Gottesman's work on multidrug resistance has had a profound impact on the field of oncology, offering new insights into how cancer can be more effectively treated. His contributions extend beyond the laboratory, influencing policy, research funding, and the direction of future scientific inquiry.