Solomon H. Snyder

Solomon H. Snyder

Solomon H. Snyder

Solomon H. Snyder is a prominent American neuroscientist and pharmacologist known for his pioneering research in the field of neurotransmitters and receptors. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of how drugs affect the brain and has contributed to the development of new treatments for various neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Early Life and Education

Solomon Snyder was born on December 26, 1938, in Washington, D.C. He attended Georgetown University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1960. Snyder then pursued his medical degree at Georgetown University School of Medicine, graduating in 1962. Following his medical training, he completed a residency in psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Career and Research

Snyder joined the faculty of Johns Hopkins University in 1966, where he became a full professor in 1970. He is best known for his discovery of the opiate receptor in the brain, which was a groundbreaking finding in the field of neuropharmacology. This discovery provided a molecular basis for understanding how opiates, such as morphine and heroin, exert their effects on the brain.

Neurotransmitter Research

Snyder's research has focused on the identification and characterization of neurotransmitters and their receptors. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate systems. His work has elucidated the mechanisms by which these neurotransmitters influence mood, cognition, and behavior.

Receptor Binding Techniques

One of Snyder's major contributions to neuroscience is the development of receptor binding techniques. These methods allow researchers to study the interaction between neurotransmitters and their receptors at a molecular level. This has been instrumental in the development of drugs that target specific receptors to treat neurological and psychiatric disorders.

Awards and Honors

Solomon Snyder has received numerous awards for his contributions to science, including the Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research and the National Medal of Science. He is a member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Legacy

Snyder's work has had a profound impact on the field of neuroscience and pharmacology. His discoveries have paved the way for the development of new therapeutic agents and have enhanced the understanding of brain function and dysfunction. He has trained many students and postdoctoral fellows who have gone on to become leaders in the field.

Related Pages

• Neurotransmitter
• Receptor (biochemistry)
• Neuropharmacology
• Johns Hopkins University
• Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research