Tom Rapoport

Tom Rapoport

Tom Rapoport is a German-American biochemist and cell biologist known for his significant contributions to the understanding of protein translocation across the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane. He is a professor at Harvard Medical School and a member of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

Early Life and Education

Tom Rapoport was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, but he grew up in East Germany. He studied chemistry at the Humboldt University of Berlin, where he received his Ph.D. in biochemistry.

Career

Rapoport began his career at the Central Institute for Molecular Biology in Berlin, where he worked on the mechanisms of protein translocation across the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. In 1995, he moved to the United States and joined the faculty at Harvard Medical School.

Research

Rapoport's research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of protein translocation and membrane biogenesis. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of the Sec61 complex, a protein-conducting channel in the endoplasmic reticulum membrane. His work has provided insights into how proteins are transported across membranes and how the endoplasmic reticulum maintains its structure and function.

Awards and Honors

Tom Rapoport has received numerous awards for his contributions to biochemistry and cell biology, including the Gairdner Foundation International Award and the Lasker Award.

Personal Life

Rapoport is married to Susanne Rapoport, a physician and scientist. They have two children.

Selected Publications

• Rapoport, T. A. (Year). Title of the publication. Journal Name. Volume(Issue), pages.
• Rapoport, T. A. (Year). Title of the publication. Journal Name. Volume(Issue), pages.

See Also

• Protein translocation
• Endoplasmic reticulum
• Sec61 complex
• Howard Hughes Medical Institute
• Harvard Medical School