Charles Herbert Best

Charles Herbert Best (February 27, 1899 – March 31, 1978) was a Canadian physiologist and biochemist who is best known for co-discovering insulin with Frederick Banting during his time at the University of Toronto. His work has had a profound impact on the treatment of diabetes and has saved countless lives worldwide.

Early Life and Education

Best was born in West Pembroke, Maine, to Canadian parents. He completed his early education in the United States before moving to Canada to attend the University of Toronto. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in physiology and biochemistry in 1921.

Discovery of Insulin

In the summer of 1921, Best began working with Frederick Banting on the problem of diabetes. They were able to isolate the hormone insulin from the pancreas, which when injected into diabetic patients, controlled their blood sugar levels. This groundbreaking discovery earned Banting and the laboratory director J.J.R. Macleod the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1923. Best was not included in the original award, but Banting shared his prize money with him.

Later Career

Best succeeded Macleod as the head of the Department of Physiology at the University of Toronto in 1929. He continued his research on insulin and also worked on the development of heparin, an anticoagulant used to prevent blood clots. Best served as the Chancellor of the University of Toronto from 1955 to 1965.

Legacy

Best's work on insulin and heparin has had a significant impact on medicine. His contributions to the treatment of diabetes have saved and improved the lives of millions of people around the world. The Charles Best Diabetes Centre in Vancouver, Canada, is named in his honor.

See Also

• History of diabetes
• Discovery of insulin
• Frederick Banting
• University of Toronto