Lourdes J. Cruz PhD

[Scientist Profile] -

Dr. Lourdes J. Cruz's research has contributed to the understanding of the biochemistry of toxic peptides from the venom of the fish-hunting Conus marine snails. The characterization of over 50 biologically active peptides from the snail's venom had been made possible, in part, by her studies. Dr. Cruz was also responsible for the development of a variety of conotoxins used as tools for examining the activities of the human brain. W-conotoxin, for instance, is widely used for studying neural calcium channels. M-conotoxin, another one of her discoveries, is used to control muscular activity during examinations of biochemical events that happen in synapses.

Dr. Cruz's scientific awards include: National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) Outstanding Young Scientist Award, 1981; National Research Council of the Philippines (NCRP) Achievement Award in Chemistry, 1982; and the Outstanding Women in the Nation's Service Award for Biochemistry, 1986.

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