A Maltese professor has been named among the distinguished investigators for 2007 by Mayo Clinic's Rochester Research Committee in the US.

Michael Camilleri, a professor of medicine and physiology, is internationally known for his patient-oriented research in gastrointestinal diseases, specifically those affecting motility and sensation.

The reward is among the most prestigious open to clinicians engaged in research, clinical investigators and career scientists. The award recognises the achievements of individuals who have made significant contributions to Mayo Clinic's research activities over time.

In nominating him, his colleagues point to his contributions in understanding the mechanisms of gastrointestinal diseases, among others.

Principles developed and validated in his clinical investigations have led to novel findings, and tenets that are now standard in GI textbooks.

They also credit him with pioneering the concept of a genetic basis for variation in responses to pharmacotherapy in functional GI disease. He has published over 300 articles and has an impressive record of support for his research.

Professor Camilleri has served as the editor of a sub-speciality journal and is the founding editor of the official clinical practice journal of the American Gastroenterology Association.

He received his medical degree from the University of Malta and completed clinical and research fellowships at the Royal Postgraduate Medical School, the University of London, and the Mayo Clinic.

Professor Camilleri was elected Fellow of the American College of Physicians of Edinburgh and London and Fellow of the American College of Physicians.

Another Mayo Clinic professor - Gary Sieck - was similarly honoured.