Jeffrey A. Towbin, M.D

Cardiology

Underlying basis of congestive heart failure

Jeffrey A. Towbin received the award for his research on the molecular basis of diseases causing cardiac sudden death. Sudden death occurs in over 300,000 Americans yearly and Dr. Towbin's research has focused on the main causes, including heart muscle diseases (cardiomyopathies) and heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias). His research has helped identify many of the disease-causing genes, acquired causes of disease, and the mechanisms responsible. In addition, his work has led to novel therapies.

Dr. Towbin’s nomination was based on the following publications:

Shirali GS, Ni J, Chinnock RE, Johnston JK, Rosenthal GL, Bowles NE, Towbin JA." Association of viral genome with graft loss in children after cardiac transplantation.y ". N Engl J Med. 2001 May 17;344(20):1498-503

Towbin JA, Bowles NE. " The failing heart. ". Nature. 2002 Jan 10;415(6868):227-33.

Vatta M, Stetson SJ, Perez-Verdia A, Entman ML, Noon GP, Torre-Amione G, Bowles NE, Towbin JA. " Molecular remodelling of dystrophin in patients with end-stage cardiomyopathies and reversal in patients on assistance-device therapy. ". Lancet. 2002 Mar 16;359(9310):936-41.