William Henry Howell

William Henry Howell

William Henry Howell (1860–1945) was an eminent American physiologist whose pioneering work significantly advanced the field of physiology. Best known for his discovery of heparin, a naturally occurring anticoagulant, Howell's contributions to medicine and physiology have had a lasting impact.

Early Life and Education

William Henry Howell was born on November 20, 1860, in Baltimore, Maryland. He pursued his undergraduate studies at Johns Hopkins University, where he developed an interest in biological sciences. After completing his bachelor's degree, Howell went on to earn his Ph.D. in physiology at Johns Hopkins in 1884, studying under the guidance of notable physiologists such as H. Newell Martin.

Career and Research

After obtaining his Ph.D., Howell held various academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Michigan, where he began his research into blood coagulation. In 1893, he returned to Johns Hopkins University to take up a professorship in physiology, a position he held until his retirement. Howell's research was primarily focused on the physiology of blood. His most significant discovery was heparin in 1916, a substance that prevents blood from clotting. This discovery has had profound implications for medical surgery and treatment, allowing for the development of safer surgical procedures and the management of blood clotting disorders. In addition to his work on heparin, Howell made important contributions to the understanding of the physiology of the heart and circulation. He authored several influential texts, including the "Textbook of Physiology," which was widely used by medical students for decades.

Legacy

William Henry Howell's contributions to physiology have earned him a place among the most influential American physiologists of his time. His work on blood coagulation and the discovery of heparin have saved countless lives and continue to be foundational in the fields of surgery and hematology. Howell's dedication to research and education has left a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations of scientists and medical professionals. He passed away on February 6, 1945, but his work continues to influence the field of physiology and medicine.

Selected Publications

• Textbook of Physiology (various editions)
• The Physiological Effects of Extracts of the Pituitary Body (with others)
• Numerous articles on blood coagulation and physiology

See Also

• Physiology
• Heparin
• Johns Hopkins University
• Blood coagulation