Michael J. Lenardo

Leader in elucidating the fundamental molecular regulatory pathways in lymphocytes i. Built on these insights to carry out path-breaking research elucidating aspects of human immunity using the molecular, cellular, and clinical investigation of Mendelian genetic disorders of the immune system. This has led to new forms of diagnosis, treatment and prevention of immune disorders and lymphoid cancer. Identified human mutations in the Fas death receptor and determined the mechanism of dominant interference. Identified first inherited disorders of caspases, of somatic mutations of the Ras oncogene, and of other genetic regulators of programmed cell death. Recent work on human genetic immunodeficiencies has illuminated the role of the magnesium ion as second messenger and vital link in signaling in immune cells and other cells, bringing new understanding of the molecular control of cancer-causing viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus as well as a therapy of using magnesium supplementation to boost immunity and suppress viral infection.