Ferid Murad
The George Washington University
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Primary Section: 23, Physiology and Pharmacology Secondary Section: 42, Medical Physiology and Metabolism Membership Type:
Emeritus
(elected 1997)
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Research Interests
I am interested in cell signalling and regulatory biology. Much of my work has focused on small second messenger molecules such as cyclic AMP, cyclic GMP and nitric oxide. Most of the work has been very fundamental with the characterization, purification and cDNA cloning of several isoforms of guanylyl cyclase and nitric oxide synthase. The biochemical and biological functions of these messengers have also been pursued in numerous systems ranging from purified molecular targets, reconstituted cell free systems, various cell culture models, intact tissues, intact animals and even clinical studies in humans. Our laboratory is viewed as one of the pioneers in the areas of cyclic GMP and nitric oxide research. Much of our work has also examined mechanisms of hormonal, neurotransmitter and autacoid receptor coupling to cyclic AMP, cyclic GMP and nitric oxide synthesis and function. We have utilized these messenger systems and cascades to diagnose some clinical disorders, particularly some endocrinopathies, and evaluate the response of patients to therapy.
