Ardem Patapoutian, nobel de Medicina: “El 90% de las personas ni siquiera sabe que tiene el sentido de la propiocepción” | Ciencia | EL PAÍS

Ardem Patapoutian: A Life in Science

This article features an interview with Nobel laureate Ardem Patapoutian, focusing on his research on Piezo proteins, his personal journey as an immigrant, and his outspoken criticism of science funding cuts under the Trump administration.

The Discovery of Piezo Proteins

Patapoutian's research centers around Piezo proteins, which play crucial roles in various bodily functions including touch, blood pressure, respiration, and even sexual arousal. The discovery of these proteins has opened up a new understanding of biological mechanisms.

Immigration and Science

Patapoutian's personal story as a refugee from Lebanon highlights the challenges faced by immigrants in the United States, juxtaposing his success with the anti-immigration stance of the Trump administration. He emphasizes the crucial role of immigrants in science, noting that 40% of Nobel laureates in the US are immigrants.

• He discusses the importance of immigration and science funding for research and innovation.
• He recounts his experience being held at gunpoint as a teenager, which fueled his decision to emigrate to the US.
• He criticizes the Trump administration's cuts to science funding and their impact on research and innovation.

The Importance of Proprioception

Patapoutian highlights the importance of proprioception, the sense of body position, a often-overlooked sense. He emphasizes that most people aren't even aware of having this sense, which is essential for activities like walking, running, and playing sports.

Patapoutian's Rules for Science

Patapoutian shares his five rules for doing science, which also apply to any creative discipline:

• Don't be busy all the time; allow time for reflection and creativity
• Change your area of work to gain new perspectives
• Surround yourself with critics to avoid complacency
• Don't always follow advice blindly
• Do what you find fun; curiosity-driven research often yields the most significant applications.

Rejection of a Chinese Research Offer

Patapoutian disclosed receiving an offer from China for long-term research funding. He declined the offer, expressing his love for the United States and his dedication to pursuing his research there.