IN LOVING MEMORY
DR. PAUL ZAMECNIK
Dr. Paul Zamecnik dedicated his life to research that will help millions of people.
Most scientists are fortunate if they can make one major discovery in their lifetime. Dr. Paul Zamecnik made two, each of which should have won him a Nobel Prize.
Working with Dr. Mahlon Hoagland, he discovered transfer RNA, a crucial molecule in the synthesis of proteins in the cell. Later, he invented the idea of antisense therapy, in which strands of DNA or RNA are used to block the activity of genes — a concept that is now being turned into a new class of drugs for cancer, HIV and a host of other diseases.
Zamecnik died of cancer Oct. 27 at his home in Boston. He was 96.
Although he was nominated repeatedly for the Nobel and rumors circulated each year that he would finally receive it, the prize never came. He did, however, win a 1996 Lasker Award, the prestigious American prize that is often a precursor of the Nobel, and the National Medal of Science in 1991.
From the article in the Los Angeles Times by Thomas H. Maugh II
Dr. Zamecnik continued his work until the last year of his life. This memoriam is dedicated to Paul’s family, including my dear friend Betsy.
Dear Jean, Thankyou so much for remembering Paul.He devoted his life’s work trying to unravel the deadly secrets of cancer. He loved everyone,and had a huge passion for life and learning. I can proudly say he was one of Dan’s oldest fans, and listened to his music as he was getting ready to go to work, even at age 96.
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Betsy, honey, it was my pleasure. Thank you for the years of friendship and support you and Dickie extended to us. ~ Jean
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This is a wonderful tribute to a great man.
When I was a student at Emmanuel College, I did part time clerical work at Harvard Medical School’s department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics.From the staff and students, I learned about this remarkable discovery. Dr.Zamecnik’s contributions to medical science and the world are immeasurable. We thank him.
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