Renowned Neuroendocrinologist Susan Leeman Passes Away at 95

Susan E. Leeman, a pioneering neuroendocrinologist whose work significantly advanced the understanding of how the brain communicates with the body, passed away on January 20, 2024, in Manhattan. She was 95 years old. Her death was confirmed by her daughter, Jennifer Leeman, at the home of another daughter, Eve Leeman.

Throughout her career, Dr. Leeman was known for her determination to obtain the necessary materials for her research, often going to great lengths to secure them. In the late 1960s, while leading a small laboratory at Brandeis University, she sought to isolate a stress hormone, requiring large quantities of bovine hypothalamus tissue. When local supplies dwindled, she traveled to Chicago, specifically to the vast Union Stock Yards, to obtain fresh samples.

Dr. Leeman’s research led to the identification of a key neuropeptide known as Substance P, which she fully characterized in 1970. Although this chemical had been discovered earlier in 1931 by researchers Ulf von Euler and John Gaddum, its role as a neuropeptide—a tiny molecule released by neurons that transmits signals in response to pain—was elucidated by Dr. Leeman. She followed this with the identification of another neuropeptide three years later, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the field.

The impact of Dr. Leeman’s discoveries extends beyond academic circles. Her work has implications for understanding pain mechanisms and potential treatments for chronic pain conditions. By demonstrating how the brain’s chemical messengers operate, she laid foundational knowledge that continues to inform research today.

Dr. Leeman was celebrated not only for her scientific achievements but also for her tenacity and willingness to explore unconventional avenues in her research. Her career exemplified a commitment to advancing scientific knowledge, often at great personal effort. Her contributions to neuroendocrinology have left a lasting legacy, inspiring a new generation of scientists.

In addition to her scientific work, Dr. Leeman’s life is remembered by her family and colleagues who admired her dedication and intellect. As the field of neuroendocrinology continues to evolve, Dr. Leeman’s groundbreaking discoveries will remain a cornerstone for ongoing research and exploration into the intricate relationship between the brain and the body.