American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) is a learned society that was founded on December 26, 1906 at a meeting organized by John Jacob Abel (Johns Hopkins University).^[1] The roots of the society were in the American Physiological Society, which had been formed some 20 years earlier.

The ASBMB was originally called the American Society of Biological Chemists, before obtaining its current name in 1987. The society is based in Rockville, Maryland. ASBMB's mission is to advance the science of biochemistry and molecular biology through publication of scientific and educational journals, the organization of scientific meetings, advocacy for funding of basic research and education, support of science education at all levels, and by promoting the diversity of individuals entering the scientific workforce. The organization currently has over 12,000 members.

Publications

The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology publishes three research journals and a monthly magazine covering society news and activity updates. ASBMB journals are peer-reviewed and cover research in the fields of microbiology, molecular genetics, RNA-related research, proteomics, genomics, transcription, peptides, cell signaling, lipidomics, and systems biology. All articles are published online as "Papers in Press" upon acceptance.

• The Journal of Biological Chemistry publishes research in any area of biochemistry or molecular biology, both in print and online, weekly.
• Molecular & Cellular Proteomics is a monthly online only publication. Articles appearing in MCP "...describe the structural and functional properties of proteins and their expression, particularly with respect to the developmental time courses of the organism of which they are a part."^[2] The journal also publishes other content such as "HUPO views" (reports from the Human Proteome Organization),^[3][4] proceedings from HUPO meetings,^[5] and the proceedings of the International Symposium On Mass Spectrometry In The Life Sciences.^[6]
• The Journal of Lipid Research covers "...the science of lipids in health and disease. The Journal emphasizes lipid function and the biochemical and genetic regulation of lipid metabolism. In addition, JLR publishes manuscripts on patient-oriented and epidemiological research relating to altered lipid metabolism, including modification of dietary lipids."^[7]
• ASBMB Today is the society's monthly news magazine. It contains extensive coverage of awards, meetings, research highlights, job placement advertising and human interest articles. All ASBMB members receive a complimentary subscription to ASBMB Today.

Meetings

ASBMB hosts and sponsors numerous meetings each year. The annual meeting is held each April in conjunction with the Experimental Biology meeting. Additionally, themed special symposia are organized throughout the year.

Awards

The Mildred Cohn Award in Biological Chemistry was established in 2013 to honor the scientific achievements of Mildred Cohn, the first female president of the society. The award of $5,000 is presented annually to a scientist who has made substantial advances in understanding biological chemistry using innovative physical approaches. The recipient is expected to deliver the Mildred Cohn Award lecture at the annual meeting. ^[8]

Recipients:

Source: American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

• 2016 – Eva Nogales
• 2015 - Judith P. Klinman
• 2014 - Lila M. Gierasch
• 2013 - Jennifer A. Doudna

Advocacy

The Public Affairs Office works with the PAAC to advocate for increased research budgets for the major governmental funding agencies, primarily the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation. ASBMB has developed a set of recommendations^[9] for pre-medical course requirements consistent with the new Medical College Admission Test. Advocacy efforts also focus on protecting the conditions that promote a successful research environment. In addition, the office works to maintain a healthy relationship between ASBMB members, government officials, and the public in order to foster awareness of the importance of science to everyday life.

References

External links

• Official website
• American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology records, 1906-2005 at the University of Maryland

See also

• Belgian Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology