UCLA researcher lauded for groundbreaking achievements in the field of blood disorders study
In a significant recognition of her contributions to the field of hematology, Dr. Elizabeth Nemeth, a professor of medicine at UCLA, has been awarded the 2021 William Dameshek Prize by the American Society of Hematology (ASH).
The William Dameshek Prize, established in honour of the late William Dameshek, a past president of ASH and the original editor of the Society's flagship journal, Blood, is one of the most prestigious awards in the field. This year, the prize recognises Dr. Nemeth's groundbreaking work on iron homeostasis.
Dr. Nemeth's research has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of iron metabolism. She has been honoured for her contributions to the understanding of iron homeostasis, particularly her work on the mode of action of hepcidin and the molecular basis of systemic iron homeostasis. This work has led to the development of novel diagnostic tools and treatments for patients with iron disorders.
Nemeth's research extends beyond iron metabolism. She continues to study iron pathobiology in chronic kidney disease, pregnancy, infectious disease, inflammatory disorders, and iron overload disorders such as hereditary hemochromatosis and hemoglobinopathies.
One of her most notable discoveries is the identification of IL-6 as the main driver of hepcidin and the definition of the structural basis of the hepcidin-ferroportin interaction. She has also developed hepcidin-like agonists and delineated the role of hepcidin in innate immunity against gram-negative bacteria.
Understanding the impact of iron on fetal development in utero, according to Dr. Nemeth, has the potential to have a global impact. Her ongoing research in this area is a testament to her commitment to advancing the field and improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Nemeth's work has been recognised as extraordinary by the hematology research and clinical community, as exemplified by ASH. She expresses her appreciation for the inspiring and enabling nature of the hematology research and clinical community.
In addition to the William Dameshek Prize, Dr. Nemeth has received numerous other honours, including the International BioIron Society Presidential Award and the International BioIron Society's President-elect position. She was also featured in the 2016 Cell Metabolism series on women leaders in the field of metabolism.
The William Dameshek Prize will be presented to Dr. Elizabeth Nemeth at the 63rd ASH Annual Meeting and Exposition in Atlanta, Georgia in December. This event is a testament to her significant contributions to the field of hematology and a celebration of her achievements.
