William P. Murphy

William P. Murphy (1892–1987) was an American physician and scientist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1934 for his work on the treatment of anemia. He shared the prize with George Minot and George Whipple, who together discovered that the liver could be used to treat anemia, leading to the development of liver therapy for this condition.

Early Life and Education

William P. Murphy was born on February 6, 1892, in Stoughton, Wisconsin. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin, where he developed an interest in medicine. Following his graduation, Murphy attended the Harvard Medical School, where he earned his M.D. degree in 1922.

Career and Research

After completing his medical degree, Murphy joined the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston as a researcher. It was here that he began his groundbreaking work on anemias, particularly pernicious anemia, a then-fatal disease caused by a lack of intrinsic factor needed for the absorption of vitamin B12.

Murphy, along with Minot and Whipple, discovered that the consumption of large amounts of liver could significantly improve the health of patients suffering from pernicious anemia. This was because the liver contained high amounts of vitamin B12, which was essential for the formation of red blood cells. Their work not only led to a treatment for pernicious anemia but also opened up new avenues for the research and treatment of other types of anemia.

Nobel Prize

In 1934, William P. Murphy, along with George Minot and George Whipple, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for their discoveries concerning liver therapy in cases of anemia. This recognition was a testament to the significant impact their research had on the field of medicine, particularly in the treatment of blood disorders.

Later Years and Legacy

After receiving the Nobel Prize, Murphy continued his research and practice in medicine. He held several prestigious positions throughout his career, including serving as a professor at the Harvard Medical School.

Murphy's work has had a lasting impact on the field of hematology and the treatment of anemia. His research paved the way for the development of more effective treatments for various types of anemia and contributed to our understanding of the importance of vitamins and nutrients in maintaining blood health.

William P. Murphy passed away on October 9, 1987, leaving behind a legacy of medical innovation and research that continues to benefit patients around the world.

See Also

• Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine
• Anemia
• Vitamin B12
• George Minot
• George Whipple