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Updated: Feb 9, 2026
11:23
An Open-Source Normothermic Perfusion System Designed for Research Scientists
Published on: July 18, 2025
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Geoffrey Burnstock: most highly cited scientist
Molecular Interventions
|August 12, 2004
Summary
Purinergic signaling, involving biological responses to purines, is a rapidly growing field. Key researchers like Geoffrey Burnstock pioneered understanding adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as a neurotransmitter, overcoming initial skepticism.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology and Neuroscience
- Focuses on the critical role of purines and related molecules in biological systems.
Background:
- Purinergic signaling, the study of biological responses to purines, has seen significant growth.
- Geoffrey Burnstock, a pioneer in the field, coined the term 'purinergic nerves' and proposed ATP as a neurotransmitter.
Discussion:
- Burnstock's early work on ATP as a neurotransmitter faced considerable skepticism.
- The field has evolved significantly, with many researchers now contributing to purinergic signaling.
Key Insights:
- Four of the ten most cited pharmacologists focus on purinergic signaling.
- The field's advancement is largely attributed to pioneers like Burnstock.
Outlook:
- The establishment of a new journal, 'Purinergic Signalling,' highlights the field's maturation.
- Continued research is expected to further elucidate the complex roles of purinergic signaling in health and disease.
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