His most notable research is a collaboration with Dr. Ralph Brinster where they injected purified DNA into a single-cell mouse embryo, showing transmission of the genetic material to subsequent generations for the first time.
His research is notable in the cell biology community which is evidenced by his funding by the National Institutes of Health and The Michael J.
[1] Palmiter's research career began with the role of sex steroids and the regulation of the transcription of genes responsible for egg white production in laying hens.
Prior to their work, the term ‘transgenic’ was virtually unheard of; but after their collaboration, the use of the word in scientific papers has skyrocketed.
DNA sequences important for the restriction of gene expression to specific cell types were discovered due to these newly created transgenic mice.
Palmiter's current ideas suggest that the disruption of mitochondrial function and the accumulation of damaged proteins has the potential to lead to the death of dopaminergic neurons.
Palmiter and his team use mouse genetic models and viral gene transfer to study neural circuits in specific brain regions.
They also aim to identify downstream targets of certain neurons and discern how they are involved in responding to various threats, including pain, itch, and food poisoning.
[5] Palmiter's valuable research has contributed greatly to the molecular biology field; therefore, he has received numerous awards and accolades as well as given lectures at notable conferences throughout his career.