Charles Gibson Lowry

British physician and biochemist

Professor Charles Gibson Lowry

Charles Gibson Lowry (1880–1951) was a prominent British physician and biochemist known for his contributions to the field of biochemistry and his work on the Lowry method for protein quantification. His research significantly advanced the understanding of protein chemistry and its applications in medical science.

Early Life and Education

Charles Gibson Lowry was born in 1880 in Belfast, Ireland. He pursued his early education in Belfast before attending Queen's University Belfast, where he studied medicine. Lowry showed an early interest in the chemical processes underlying biological functions, which led him to further his studies in biochemistry.

Career

After completing his medical degree, Lowry began his career as a physician but soon transitioned to research, focusing on the biochemical aspects of medicine. He joined the faculty at University College London, where he worked alongside other notable scientists of the time.

Research Contributions

Lowry is best known for developing the Lowry method, a biochemical assay for determining the concentration of proteins in a solution. This method, which involves the reaction of proteins with the Folin–Ciocalteu reagent, became a standard procedure in laboratories worldwide due to its sensitivity and reliability.

His work extended beyond protein quantification. Lowry also conducted research on enzyme activity and metabolic pathways, contributing to the broader understanding of cellular processes. His studies on enzyme kinetics and metabolism were foundational in the field of biochemistry.

Legacy

Lowry's contributions to biochemistry have had a lasting impact on both research and clinical practices. The Lowry method remains a widely used technique in laboratories, underscoring his influence on scientific methodologies. His work paved the way for future discoveries in protein chemistry and enzymology.

Personal Life

Charles Gibson Lowry was known for his dedication to science and education. He was a mentor to many young scientists and was actively involved in the academic community. Lowry passed away in 1951, leaving behind a legacy of scientific achievement and innovation.

Related Pages

• Biochemistry
• Protein quantification
• Enzyme kinetics
• Metabolism