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Year: 1930
Who: Dr. Percy Julian
Where: DePauw University, Indiana
What: Steroids are organic compounds that play vital roles in the human body, serving as hormones that regulate numerous physiological processes. These include sex hormones, like estrogen and testosterone, and adrenal hormones, such as cortisone, which are critical for managing inflammation and immune responses. While their medicinal potential was recognized early in the 20th century, obtaining sufficient quantities from natural sources was prohibitively expensive. Enter Dr. Percy Lavon Julian, a chemist whose groundbreaking work revolutionized the synthesis of steroids, making them affordable and accessible for widespread medical use.
Born in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1899, Julian overcame significant racial barriers to become one of the most influential chemists of his time. After earning his doctorate in organic chemistry from the University of Vienna in 1931, Julian made his first major contribution by synthesizing physostigmine, an alkaloid used to treat glaucoma. This feat demonstrated his ability to transform scarce natural compounds into usable medicines.
Julian's work with steroids began at the Glidden Company, where he explored the potential of soybeans. In 1939, he serendipitously discovered a method for extracting stigmasterol, a plant steroid found in soybean oil. Leveraging this abundant source, Julian developed a cost-effective process to produce progesterone, a hormone crucial for preventing miscarriages. This breakthrough laid the foundation for the large-scale production of sex hormones and other steroids.
In 1949, Julian turned his attention to cortisone, a powerful treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. He devised an innovative synthesis of hydrocortisone, a related compound still widely used today. His methods not only lowered costs but also made these life-changing treatments accessible to millions.
Beyond science, Julian was a passionate advocate for civil rights, founding organizations to advance opportunities for African Americans. His legacy is a testament to the transformative power of science, perseverance, and social commitment.
Sources
Websites:
Biography.com. (n.d.). Percy Julian Biography. https://www.biography.com/scientist/percy-julian
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