Luis Federico Leloir

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Luis Federico Leloir (September 6, 1906 – December 2, 1987) was an Argentine biochemist and physician who received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1970 for his discovery of nucleotide sugars and their role in the biosynthesis of carbohydrates. His work significantly advanced the understanding of metabolism and biochemistry.

Early Life and Education

Luis Federico Leloir was born in Paris, France, to Argentine parents. He moved to Buenos Aires with his family when he was two years old. Leloir attended the University of Buenos Aires, where he earned his medical degree in 1932. He later pursued further studies in biochemistry at the University of Cambridge under the mentorship of Sir Frederick Gowland Hopkins.

Career and Research

Leloir returned to Argentina and joined the Instituto de Fisiología at the University of Buenos Aires, where he began his research on carbohydrate metabolism. In 1947, he became the director of the Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas Fundación Campomar, where he conducted his groundbreaking research on nucleotide sugars.

Leloir's most notable contribution to science was the discovery of uridine diphosphate glucose (UDP-glucose) and its role in the biosynthesis of glycogen and other polysaccharides. This discovery was crucial in understanding how cells synthesize and store energy.

Nobel Prize

In 1970, Leloir was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for his discovery of nucleotide sugars and their role in the biosynthesis of carbohydrates. His work laid the foundation for further research in biochemistry and metabolism.

Legacy

Luis Federico Leloir's contributions to biochemistry have had a lasting impact on the field. His research has paved the way for advancements in understanding metabolic disorders and the development of new therapies for diseases related to carbohydrate metabolism.

Personal Life

Leloir was married to Amelia Zuberbühler, and they had one daughter. He was known for his modesty and dedication to science. Leloir continued to work in his laboratory until his death in 1987.

Honors and Awards

• Nobel Prize in Chemistry (1970)
• Louisa Gross Horwitz Prize (1966)
• Gairdner Foundation International Award (1966)

See Also

• Nobel Prize in Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Metabolism
• Carbohydrate metabolism
• University of Buenos Aires