Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Professor Adrian Krainer has been elected to the National Academy of Medicine (NAM). He is being honored for developing nusinersen (Spinraza®), which treats spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Members of the NAM have made major contributions to the advancement of the medical sciences, health care, and public health.
“These newly elected members represent the most exceptional scholars and leaders whose remarkable work has advanced science, medicine and health in the U.S. and around the globe,” said NAM President Victor J. Dzau. “Their expertise will be vital to addressing today’s most pressing health and scientific challenges and informing the future of health and medicine for the benefit of us all. I am honored to welcome these esteemed individuals to the National Academy of Medicine.”
SMA is a neurodegenerative disease that is the leading genetic cause of infant death. Spinraza®, the treatment Krainer developed, is based on a biological process called RNA splicing, and it works to compensate for the genetic issue that causes the disease. Today, about 7,500 patients worldwide are being treated with Spinraza®.
Written by: Sara Roncero-Menendez, Media Strategist | publicaffairs@cshl.edu | 516-367-8455