A Legacy of Research & Discovery

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For more than 75 years, UT Southwestern has brought together the brightest minds in science and medicine to promote health and a healthy society. Their groundbreaking discoveries have revealed the biology behind common diseases, allowing pharmaceutical companies to develop therapies that enhance the health of millions worldwide.

Gold Nobel Prize medal

6 Nobel Prizes in the last 35+ years:

  • Two for Cholesterol Regulation
  • Membrane Protein Structure
  • Cell Signaling
  • Innate Immunity
  • Synapses and Neural Function

Meet Our Nobel Prize Winners

heart

Heart Disease

Statins

The Nobel Prize-winning research of Michael Brown and Joseph Goldstein on the underlying mechanism of cholesterol metabolism explained the LDL-lowering action of statin drugs, one of the most widely prescribed medications in the world. Their discovery reduced the risk of heart disease and stroke for millions of people.

Anti-PCSK9 Antibodies

The pioneering Dallas Heart Study launched by Helen Hobbs and Jonathan Cohen provided invaluable findings that led to a new class of drugs called PCSK9 inhibitors. Clinical studies have shown these drugs dramatically lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce heart attacks. 

Our Heart Disease Research & Discoveries


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Prostate Health

5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors

Jean Wilson’s research revealed that prostate enlargement and male balding occur when too much DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is produced. David Russell’s team discovered key genes critical to turning testosterone into DHT. Together, their research led to 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, widely prescribed to treat enlarged prostate and balding in men.

Learn More About 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors

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Pulmonary Hypertension

Endothelin Receptor Blockers 

Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the lungs. Masashi Yanagisawa discovered endothelin, a protein that constricts blood vessels. His findings led to endothelial receptor blockers that reduce lung blood pressure and restore a measure of health.

Our Work With Pulmonary Hypertension

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Sleep

Orexin Receptor Blockers

Masashi Yanagisawa discovered orexin, a chemical produced in the brain that keeps people awake. This led to orexin receptor blockers that treat insomnia by inducing restful sleep. 

Improving Sleep Cycles

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1,000+ Clinical Trials

are currently underway at UT Southwestern.