Norman's research was in the area of cellular and molecular endocrinology, where he was internationally known for his breakthroughs in the study of vitamin D.[2] This included the mechanisms of action of the steroid hormone1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, vitamin D structure-function relationships, and actions of the vitamin D receptor (VDR).[1]
In 1967, Norman's lab discovered that vitamin D is converted into a steroid hormone by the body. In 1969 he determined that vitamin D receptors (VDR) were present in the intestine.[3]
In 1971 the Norman laboratory reported the chemical structure of the active form of vitamin D to be 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (which is also known as 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, and 1α,25-(OH)2D3).[4]
In 1972, Norman in collaboration with Dr. Jack Coburn at the UCLA medical school treated the first uremic patients with the steroid hormone, produced in the Norman laboratory.[5]
Norman and others, including Dr. Cedric GarlandofUC San Diego, in 2007/8 made the recommendation that the daily intake of vitamin D for adults be revised to 2000 international units.[6][7]
One of his most recognised achievements was the organisation of 15 international Vitamin D Workshops which usually ran every three years from 1973 to 2012.[8]
Norman has been an author on over 800 scientific publications dating back to 1959.
A special issue on vitamin D dedicated to Norman's memory was published in 2021 with contributions from many of his collaborators and other notable scientists.[9]
^University of California (13 Nov. 2008). "Vitamin D Expert at UC Riverside Leads UC Scientists' Call Recommending Increase in Daily Vitamin D Intake". Press release
^Brickman, AS; Coburn, JW; Norman, AW (2 November 1972). "Action of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol, a potent, kidney-produced metabolite of vitamin D, in uremic man". The New England Journal of Medicine. 287 (18): 891–5. doi:10.1056/NEJM197211022871801. PMID4342432.
^Vitamin D Society (24 Nov. 2008). "Raise 'D' to 2,000 IU Daily: 18 Experts". "The Vitamin D Society". Archived from the original on 2012-03-09. Retrieved 2011-05-27.
