Ernst von Fleischl-Marxow

Austrian physiologist and physician

Ernst von Fleischl-Marxow (1846–1891) was an Austrian physiologist and physician known for his work in neurophysiology and electrophysiology. He made significant contributions to the understanding of the nervous system and was a contemporary of other notable scientists such as Sigmund Freud.

Early life and education

Ernst von Fleischl-Marxow was born on August 5, 1846, in Vienna, Austrian Empire. He was the son of a prominent family, which allowed him to pursue a comprehensive education. He studied medicine at the University of Vienna, where he developed an interest in physiology and the workings of the human body.

Career

Fleischl-Marxow began his career as an assistant to the renowned physiologist Carl Ludwig in Leipzig. During this time, he focused on the study of blood circulation and nerve impulses. His work in Leipzig laid the foundation for his later research in Vienna.

Research in neurophysiology

Upon returning to Vienna, Fleischl-Marxow continued his research in neurophysiology. He was particularly interested in the electrical properties of nerves and muscles. His experiments contributed to the understanding of action potentials and the transmission of nerve signals.

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Ernst von Fleischl-Marxow

Inventions and innovations

Fleischl-Marxow invented several devices to aid in his research, including the Fleischl hemometer, which was used to measure hemoglobin levels in blood. This invention was widely used in medical diagnostics and represented a significant advancement in clinical medicine.

Personal life

Fleischl-Marxow suffered from chronic pain due to an injury sustained during his early career. This led him to experiment with various pain relief methods, including the use of cocaine, which was a novel substance at the time. His experiences with cocaine influenced his friend Sigmund Freud's early work on the drug.

Death and legacy

Ernst von Fleischl-Marxow passed away on October 22, 1891, in Vienna. Despite his relatively short life, his contributions to physiology and medicine were significant. He is remembered for his pioneering work in electrophysiology and his influence on future generations of scientists.

Related pages

• Neurophysiology
• Electrophysiology
• Action potential
• Sigmund Freud