Needleman, Philip, 1939-....

Pharmacologist and physiologist.

Philip Needleman (b. 1939) was educated at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science (B Sc 1960; M Sc 1962) and the University of Maryland (Ph. D in Pharmacology, 1964). He was post-doctoral fellow/trainee in pharmacology at Washington University School of Medicine (1964-1967). He joined the faculty and administration of Washington University School of Medicine in 1967, serving on the faculty of Pharmacology Department as: assistant professor (1967-1972), associate professor (1972-1975), professor of pharmacology (1975-1989) and department chair (1976-1989). In 1991, he left academia for scientific and administrative posts at Monsanto/Searle (1989-1999)and Pharmacia (2000-2003). In 2004, Philip Needleman, Ph. D., returned to Washington University School of Medicine as associate dean for special research projects.

Dr. Needleman's research focused on three main areas: organic nitrate metabolism, angiotensin antagonists, and prostaglandin research especially atrial peptides and arachidonic acid metabolism. His studies of the regulation of vascular, cardiac, and renal function led to the discovery of the mechanism of organic nitrate tolerance, the first peptide angiotensin antagonists, and the atrial natriuretic factor (the hormone by which the heart communicates with the kidney). His research on the role of prostaglandins in arthritis, was an area in which he made multiple contributions culminating in the discovery of Cox-2, the isoform of cyclooxygenase responsible for the inflammation and pain suffered by arthritis patients. His work at Monsanto/Searle resulted in the 1998 FDA approval of Celebrex. Sources: Amer. Men & Women Sci, 2003; Philip Needleman curriculum vitae in 1st volume, Philip Needleman reprints; National Academy of Sciences interviews, Philip Needleman. http://www.nasonline.org/site/PageServer?pagename=INTERVIEWS_Philip_Needleman.