Albert Szent-Györgyi

Hungarian physiologist who discovered vitamin C

Albert Szent-Györgyi (16 September 1893 – 22 October 1986) was a Hungarian physiologist who won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1937 for his discoveries in connection with the biological combustion processes, with special reference to vitamin C and the catalysis of fumaric acid.

Early Life and Education

Albert Szent-Györgyi was born in Budapest, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. He came from a family with a strong scientific background. Szent-Györgyi began his studies at the University of Budapest and later continued at the University of Cambridge, where he developed an interest in the biochemical processes of the human body.

Scientific Contributions

Discovery of Vitamin C

Szent-Györgyi is best known for his discovery of ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C. While working at the University of Szeged, he isolated a substance from adrenal glands and later from citrus fruits, which he identified as the anti-scorbutic factor, or vitamin C. This discovery was crucial in understanding and preventing scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency.

Krebs Cycle and Fumaric Acid

Szent-Györgyi's research extended to the study of the Krebs cycle, a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to generate energy. He discovered the role of fumaric acid in cellular respiration, which was a significant contribution to the understanding of metabolic processes.

Later Research

In his later years, Szent-Györgyi focused on cancer research, exploring the biochemical mechanisms of cell division and the potential for vitamin C in cancer treatment. He was a pioneer in advocating for the use of antioxidants in medicine.

Personal Life

Szent-Györgyi was married four times and had one daughter. He was known for his charismatic personality and his ability to inspire students and colleagues alike. He spent his later years in the United States, where he continued his research and lectured extensively.

Legacy

Albert Szent-Györgyi's work laid the foundation for modern biochemistry and nutrition science. His discovery of vitamin C has had a lasting impact on public health and nutrition. The Albert Szent-Györgyi Medical University in Szeged, Hungary, is named in his honor, reflecting his enduring influence on medical education and research.

Gallery

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  Albert Szent-Györgyi at the NIH

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  Albert Szent-Györgyi in a BBC interview

Related Pages

• Vitamin C
• Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
• Krebs cycle
• Scurvy