Pioneering neuroendocrinologist's century of discovery launches major scientific tribute series

Tucson, Arizona, 5 November 2024 – Brain Medicine has launched an ambitious Festschrift series with the first of more than ten planned articles celebrating Dr. Seymour Reichlin's centennial year and his transformative impact on neuroendocrinology. The opening editorial, chronicling his revolutionary insights into brain-hormone interactions, inaugurates what promises to be one of the most comprehensive tributes in the field's history.

“One could be both a physician caring for patients and a scientific investigator,” reflects Dr. Reichlin, whose work spanning nearly 80 years has fundamentally reshaped our understanding of how the brain and hormones interact. Still actively contributing to scientific discourse at 100 years old, his early experiences as a psychiatric orderly during World War II sparked a lifelong quest to understand the biological mechanisms of stress and emotional states.

“Dr. Reichlin's influence extends far beyond his scientific achievements,” notes Dr. Ronald Lechan, lead author of the inaugural editorial. “His ability to excite fellows about research, coupled with his innovative thinking and clear vision of important questions to pursue, has shaped generations of leading endocrinologists.”

The forthcoming series will explore multiple facets of Dr. Reichlin's contributions, including:

• Pioneering work on hypothalamic control of pituitary function

• Development of the first radioimmunoassay for several crucial hormones

• Groundbreaking discoveries in psychoneuroimmunology

• Early recognition of fat tissue as an endocrine organ

• Identification of the first somatostatinoma

Currently, Dr. Reichlin is writing two books: one examining the neuroendocrinology of Alzheimer's disease, and another exploring the neurobiological basis of ecstatic mysticism. These newest endeavors raise intriguing questions that subsequent articles in the series may address: How might understanding the neuroendocrine basis of mystical experiences provide new insights into stress adaptation? What can Dr. Reichlin's early observations about fat as an endocrine organ teach us about modern obesity challenges?

“The upcoming articles in this series will demonstrate how Dr. Reichlin's foundational work continues to influence cutting-edge research across multiple fields," adds Dr. Lechan. "Each contribution will explore different aspects of his legacy while highlighting new directions for future investigation.”

Drs. Lechan and Toni's Guest Editorial marks the beginning of a landmark Festschrift series in Brain Medicine honoring Dr. Seymour Reichlin and his contributions to neuroendocrinology. The series is edited By Alan Harris, George Chrousos, and Julio Licinio.  Additional papers in this series will be published throughout 2024-2025, featuring perspectives from leading researchers worldwide. Each contribution will present either original research, personal reflections, or a combination of both, offering readers a comprehensive view of Dr. Reichlin's seminal work within the broader landscape of neuroendocrinology. By weaving together scientific advances with personal insights, this Festschrift creates a rich narrative that both educates and engages, serving as a valuable resource for anyone interested in neuroendocrinology, as well as colleagues, students, and friends of Dr. Reichlin while illuminating universal themes in scientific discovery. For additional information about this Festschrift series, please contact support@genomicpress.com.

The full Guest Editorial, titled “An overview of the life and career of Seymour Reichlin, MD, PhD” is available on 5 November 2024 in Brain Medicine, providing detailed insights into Dr. Reichlin’s extraordinary life and career. The Guest Editorial is freely available online at https://url.genomicpress.com/2wyvzmjm.

About Brain Medicine: Brain Medicine (ISSN: 2997-2639) is a peer-reviewed journal published by Genomic Press, New York. Brain Medicine is a new home for the cross-disciplinary pathway from innovation in fundamental neuroscience to translational initiatives in brain medicine. The journal’s scope includes the underlying science, causes, outcomes, treatments, and societal impact of brain disorders, across all clinical disciplines and their interface.