Australian structural biologist and academic renowned for determining the three-dimensional structures of important proteins, including the influenza virus neuraminidase, and developing anti-influenza drugs.
Renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of structural biology, Peter Colman is celebrated for his role in discovering zanamivir, the first-in-class neuraminidase inhibitor for influenza, and his seminal work on apoptosis. As the head of the structural biology division at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research in Melbourne, Australia, Colman has made a profound impact on our understanding of human biology and disease.
Colman's academic journey began at the University of Adelaide, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics in 1966 and a PhD in 1969. Under the supervision of Harry Medlin, his doctoral research focused on the chemical structure of parabanic acid complexes.
Colman's research interests have primarily centered around structural biology, with a special emphasis on human B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2). One of his most significant achievements was determining the three-dimensional structure of the influenza virus neuraminidase, which paved the way for the development of zanamivir. This discovery has been instrumental in the advancement of pandemic preparedness and drug stockpiling.
In addition to his work on influenza, Colman has made pivotal contributions to the study of apoptosis, or programmed cell death. His research has shed light on the essential step of how proapoptotic Bax changes conformation to dimerize and then oligomerize and permeabilize the mitochondrial membrane in the intrinsic cell-death pathway.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions to medical research, Colman was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 2017, the country's highest civilian honor. He was also elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) in 2014 and received a Centenary Medal in 2001.
Colman's work has not only advanced our understanding of human biology but has also had a direct impact on public health. His discoveries have led to the development of life-saving drugs and paved the way for further research into pandemic preparedness. As a leader in the commercial translation of scientific discoveries, Colman has inspired a new generation of scientists to pursue careers in medical research.
Through his contributions to scientific journals, including Nature, the Journal of Molecular Biology, and Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, Colman has shared his knowledge with the global scientific community, further solidifying his legacy in the field of structural biology.
In conclusion, Peter Colman's remarkable career is a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and collaboration in scientific research. As we continue to face the challenges of pandemics and infectious diseases, Colman's work serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the transformative impact of scientific discovery on human lives.
Born in 1916
Pioneering scientist who discovered the structure of DNA, revolutionizing our understanding of genetics and life itself.
98 Years Old
Discovered the structure of DNA, revolutionizing our understanding of genetics and earning a Nobel Prize. Pioneering work in molecular biology has far-reaching implications for medicine and beyond.
Born in 1920
A British scientist who contributed significantly to the discovery of the structure of DNA, providing high-quality X-ray crystallography images that helped James Watson and Francis Crick develop their famous model.
Born in 1916
A Nobel Prize-winning physicist and biologist who contributed significantly to the discovery of the structure of DNA, using X-ray crystallography to produce the first clear images of the molecule.
Born in 1901
Pioneering chemist and peace activist who won two unshared Nobel Prizes, one for chemistry and one for peace, for his groundbreaking work on the nature of the chemical bond and his tireless efforts to promote nuclear disarmament.
Born in 1924
A pioneer in the field of atmospheric physics, known for his groundbreaking research on the ozone layer and climate change, and a vocal skeptic of global warming theories.
Born in 1914
Pioneering crystallographer who unraveled the structure of hemoglobin, revolutionizing our understanding of biological molecules. His work paved the way for major advances in medicine and biochemistry.
Born in 1917
Pioneering biochemist and crystallographer who determined the structure of myoglobin, a protein in muscle cells, and was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1962.
