NEWS

Richard N. Winn

Creative Research Medal 2003

Richard N. Winn, associate professor of biotechnology and toxicology, develops new methods that test the potential of chemicals and physical agents to cause genetic damage. He recently received a second U.S. patent on a transgenic fish he developed. These guppy-sized Japanese fish contain specific DNA sequences that serve as targets for mutations. Researchers analyze tissues for changes in the target gene’s DNA after exposing the fish to a potential contaminant. Studies conducted by Winn and his research team have many biomedical and environmental applications, including assessments of chemicals in drinking water, studies on UV radiation and potential cancer chemopreventative methods.