Michael S. Brown
Facts
Photo from the Nobel Foundation archive.
Michael S. Brown
Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine 1985
Born: 13 April 1941, New York, NY, USA
Affiliation at the time of the award: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, Dallas, TX, USA
Prize motivation: “for their discoveries concerning the regulation of cholesterol metabolism”
Prize share: 1/2
Work
Cholesterol plays an important role in several biochemical processes. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can narrow blood vessels and cause problems. In 1973, Michael Brown and Joseph Goldstein discovered a receptor on the cell surface that takes up LDL (low-density lipoprotein) particles in which cholesterol is encapsulated. They then clarified how the cells' own production of cholesterol is balanced with cholesterol supplied via the blood and influenced by diet. They also showed how genetic abnormalities affect regulation.
Nobel Prizes and laureates
Six prizes were awarded for achievements that have conferred the greatest benefit to humankind. The 14 laureates' work and discoveries range from quantum tunnelling to promoting democratic rights.
See them all presented here.
