Herbert McLean Evans

Herbert McLean Evans 1927

Herbert McLean Evans (September 23, 1882 – March 6, 1971) was an American anatomist and endocrinologist known for his significant contributions to the field of endocrinology and anatomy. He is best remembered for his discovery of vitamin E and his pioneering research on the pituitary gland.

Early Life and Education

Herbert McLean Evans was born in Modesto, California. He attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He later received his medical degree from the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

Career and Research

Evans began his career as an instructor in anatomy at Johns Hopkins University. He later joined the faculty at the University of California, Berkeley, where he conducted much of his groundbreaking research.

Discovery of Vitamin E

In 1922, Evans, along with his colleague Katherine Scott Bishop, discovered vitamin E, a crucial nutrient for reproduction in rats. This discovery was a significant milestone in the field of nutrition and biochemistry.

Research on the Pituitary Gland

Evans also made substantial contributions to the understanding of the pituitary gland. He conducted extensive research on the gland's role in growth and development, leading to the identification of several important hormones, including growth hormone.

Other Contributions

In addition to his work on vitamin E and the pituitary gland, Evans made numerous contributions to the field of histology and embryology. He was a prolific author, publishing over 300 scientific papers throughout his career.

Awards and Honors

Herbert McLean Evans received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to science, including the National Medal of Science and membership in the National Academy of Sciences.

Personal Life

Evans was married and had two children. He was known for his dedication to his work and his passion for teaching and mentoring young scientists.

Legacy

Herbert McLean Evans left a lasting legacy in the fields of endocrinology and anatomy. His discoveries have had a profound impact on our understanding of human biology and health.

See Also

• Endocrinology
• Anatomy
• Vitamin E
• Pituitary gland
• Growth hormone