OMRF scientist Charles Esmon, Ph.D., has received the American Heart Association’s 2010 Basic Research Prize.
Esmon received the award on Sunday at the American Heart Association’s annual meeting opening session in Chicago. The prize is presented annually to a scientist for achievement in cardiovascular research.
The AHA awarded the prize to Esmon for his “historic” contributions to researchers’ understanding of the blood clotting system. His work, which included identification of previously unrecognized proteins, led to the creation of two FDA-approved drugs: Xigris, for the treatment of severe sepsis, and Ceprotin, a therapeutic for patients suffering from a life-threatening protein deficiency.
“During an illustrious career, Dr. Esmon has made significant additions to existing knowledge of our blood coagulation system,” said Heart Association President Ralph Sacco, M.D. “At the same time, he has taken this new understanding beyond basic inquiry into the realm of clinical applicability. His work makes a vital connection that represents translational science of the utmost relevance and value.”
Esmon holds the Lloyd Noble Chair in Cardiovascular Biology at OMRF, where he’s been a member of the scientific staff since 1982. Among his many honors are a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator designation, a MERIT Award from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute and membership in the National Academy of Sciences.
