A leader in the field of molecular genetics, Dr. Capecchi is best known for his creation of knockout mouse technology. By manipulating specific genes within mouse-derived embryonic stem cells, he discovered how to genetically engineer a mouse devoid of a specific gene. This technology has spurred studies whereby researchers can analyze the specific function of a particular gene by investigating the biological repercussions of its absence. This has also proved to be a vital asset in the analysis of genetic mutations common in cancer patients.
Dr. Capecchi has also been involved in pioneering studies involving the Hox gene family. His studies of these genes have offered unique insights into the genetics of development within various organ systems, primarily the brain. Collectively, Dr. Capecchi’s findings have contributed immeasurably to the evolution of both molecular biology and genetics-based cancer research and have laid the groundwork for subsequent breakthroughs in cancer detection and treatment.
Career Highlights
2009 Elected Fellow, American Academy of Arts and Sciences
2007 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine
2002-03 Wolf Prize in Medicine
2003 Pezcoller Foundation-AACR International Award for Cancer Research
2001 National Medal of Science
2001 Elected Fellow, American Association for the Advancement of Science
2001 Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research
1998 Baxter Award for Distinguished Research in the Biomedical Sciences, Association of American Medical Colleges
1996 Kyoto Prize in Basic Sciences
1994 Alfred P. Sloan, Jr., Prize for Outstanding Basic Sciences Contributions to Cancer Research
1993 Gairdner Foundation International Award
1992 Bristol-Myers Squibb Award for Distinguished Achievements in Medical Science
1991 Elected Member, National Academy of Sciences, Washington, DC
1969 American Chemical Society Award in Biochemistry
1967 PhD, Harvard University