Corneliu E. Giurgea

Corneliu E. Giurgea (1923–1995) was a Romanian psychologist and chemist, known for his work in the field of pharmacology and neuroscience. He is often credited as the father of nootropics, a class of drugs designed to enhance cognitive function.

Early Life and Education

Giurgea was born in 1923 in Bucharest, Romania. He pursued his education in the field of Chemistry at the University of Bucharest, where he earned his doctorate degree.

Career

After completing his education, Giurgea began his career as a researcher in the field of neuropharmacology. His work primarily focused on the study of the brain and the development of drugs to enhance its function.

In 1964, while working at the Belgian pharmaceutical company UCB, Giurgea synthesized the drug Piracetam, which is often considered the first nootropic. He coined the term "nootropic" to describe a new category of molecules that acted selectively towards the brain’s higher-level integrative activity.

Contributions to Pharmacology

Giurgea's most significant contribution to the field of pharmacology is the concept of nootropics. He defined nootropics as drugs that can enhance learning and memory, protect the brain from injury, and display a remarkably low toxicity.

His work on nootropics has had a profound impact on the field of cognitive enhancement and has led to the development of several other drugs in this category.

Death and Legacy

Giurgea passed away in 1995, but his work continues to influence the field of pharmacology and neuroscience. His concept of nootropics has paved the way for the development of several cognitive-enhancing drugs and has contributed significantly to our understanding of the brain and its functions.

See Also

• Nootropics
• Piracetam
• Neuropharmacology