The Stadtman Way A Tale of Two Biochemists at NIH

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Enzymes are thus the key to understanding "metabolism," which is a highly integrated and regulated process of biochemical reactions. This process is usually manifest in a sequence of multiple reactions, rather than of a single one, to form a "metabolic pathway," and survival of an organism is possible only within the narrow limits of "metabolic regulation." Therefore, the two main goals of biochemists studying metabolism are: (1) to map out metabolic pathways by identifying important intermediates—substances that are produced or used in the sequence of reactions but are not considered final products—and isolating the enzymes involved; and (2) to elucidate the ways in which biochemical reactions are regulated.

Thressa and Earl have explored the metabolism of fatty acids, amino acids, and proteins, taking advantage of enzymes extracted from both bacterial and mammalian cells. At NIH, they have always been allowed to choose their own research topics, and often, their keen attention to unexpected experimental results has paid off with important discoveries leading to new fields of study. To those looking for a promising research subject, their advice is simple and direct: "Follow your nose!"