Michael Houghton

British scientist and Nobel laureate

Professor Michael Houghton

Michael Houghton is a British scientist renowned for his groundbreaking work in the field of virology. He is best known for his role in the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), a major cause of liver disease worldwide. His contributions to medical science have been recognized with numerous awards, including the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine.

Early Life and Education

Michael Houghton was born in the United Kingdom. He pursued his undergraduate studies in biological sciences at the University of East Anglia, where he developed a keen interest in microbiology and immunology. He later completed his Ph.D. at King's College London, focusing on biochemistry and molecular biology.

Career

Houghton's career in virology began at the Wellcome Research Laboratories in the UK, where he worked on the development of vaccines and antiviral drugs. In the early 1980s, he joined the Chiron Corporation in California, where he embarked on the research that would lead to the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus.

Discovery of Hepatitis C

In collaboration with Harvey J. Alter and Charles M. Rice, Houghton played a pivotal role in identifying the Hepatitis C virus. The team employed innovative techniques in molecular cloning and genetic sequencing to isolate the virus, which was previously known only as "non-A, non-B hepatitis." This discovery was crucial in developing diagnostic tests and treatments for Hepatitis C, significantly reducing the risk of blood transfusion-related infections.

Nobel Prize 2020 for the discovery of Hepatitis C

Nobel Prize

In 2020, Michael Houghton, along with Harvey J. Alter and Charles M. Rice, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus. This accolade recognized their contributions to improving global health by enabling the development of blood tests and antiviral drugs that have saved millions of lives.

Later Work and Contributions

After his success with Hepatitis C, Houghton continued to work on viral diseases. He has been involved in research on Hepatitis B, HIV, and other infectious diseases. Houghton has also been a strong advocate for public health initiatives aimed at eradicating viral hepatitis.

Current Position

Michael Houghton is currently a professor at the University of Alberta in Canada, where he holds the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Virology. He continues to lead research efforts in the development of vaccines and therapies for viral infections.

Related Pages

• Hepatitis C
• Virology
• Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
• University of Alberta