Much of Professor Emeritus Richard Wurtman’s career in MIT’s Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences revolved around developing new treatments for diseases and conditions by modifying chemicals produced in the brain.
Much of Professor Emeritus Richard Wurtman’s career in MIT’s Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences revolved around developing new treatments for diseases and conditions by modifying chemicals produced in the brain.
Since coming to MIT in 1970, Wurtman, the Cecil H. Green Distinguished Professor Emeritus, and his research group have generated more than 1,000 research articles and 200 patents, laying the groundwork for numerous successful medical products.
For example, the 3 million people in the United States who take melatonin as a sleeping aid are using a product that derives from research in Wurtman’s lab. “I’m very interested in using basic knowledge to ameliorate the human condition, to make living better,” says Wurtman, who is also a medical doctor.
Now a nutrient mix based on essential research contributions by Wurtman has shown promise in treating the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new clinical trial funded by the European Union.
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Photo: MIT Professor Emeritus Richard Wurtman
Photo Credit: Donna Coveney
