Robins' research with nucleosides has provided promising results. While at ASU, he became the first person in the world to synthesize two different nucleoside compounds. Robins has done much work that has been built upon by others. But, he says, that's the way science works. I invented DDI 15 years before AIDS was even recognized as a human disease.
Nobody can plan that kind of thing.
During the 30 years since he discovered DDI, Robins' research successes have continued, and he has developed other compounds and methods that have been widely used. One such success is the result of a collaboration with Lorne Tyrrell at the University of Alberta Medical School. Based on one of the compounds Robins developed at ASU, the research has produced promising results for the treatment of hepatitis B. All this work has produced more than 200 scientific papers, secured four patents, and initiated more than 60 speaking engagements. So people are after his opinion in granting agencies and workshops and international symposia. His colleagues credit his hard work, creativity, and thorough research with his success.