Geoffrey Burnstock
- Biography
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Geoffrey Burnstock (1926-2019) was a British pharmacologist and physiologist who made significant contributions to the field of neuroscience. He was best known for his research on purinergic signalling, which is the communication between cells using purines such as adenosine and ATP. He was also a pioneer in the field of autonomic pharmacology, which is the study of the nervous system's control of the body's organs and tissues.
Early Life and Education
Geoffrey Burnstock was born in London, England in 1926. He attended the University of London, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1947 and his Doctor of Science degree in 1950. He then went on to do postdoctoral research at the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford.
Career
In 1952, Burnstock began his career as a lecturer in pharmacology at the University of London. He was later appointed as a professor of pharmacology at the University of Birmingham in 1965. During his time at Birmingham, he established the first department of pharmacology in the United Kingdom.
In 1972, Burnstock moved to Australia to become the foundation professor of pharmacology at the University of Melbourne. He was also the director of the Institute of Molecular Medicine at the university. During his time in Australia, he made significant contributions to the field of neuroscience, particularly in the area of purinergic signalling.
In 1988, Burnstock returned to the United Kingdom to become the director of the Institute of Neurology at University College London. He held this position until his retirement in 1996.
Research and Contributions
Burnstock's research focused on the role of purines in the nervous system. He was the first to describe the presence of purinergic receptors on the surface of cells, which are responsible for the communication between cells using purines. He also discovered the role of ATP in neurotransmission, which is the communication between neurons.
Burnstock was also a pioneer in the field of autonomic pharmacology. He was the first to describe the role of the autonomic nervous system in controlling the body's organs and tissues. He also discovered the role of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in autonomic regulation.
Legacy
Burnstock's research has had a lasting impact on the field of neuroscience. His discoveries have helped to advance our understanding of the nervous system and its role in controlling the body's organs and tissues. He was also a mentor to many young scientists, inspiring them to pursue careers in neuroscience.
Burnstock was awarded numerous honors throughout his career, including the Royal Society's Royal Medal in 1988 and the Royal Society's Copley Medal in 2002. He was also awarded honorary degrees from the University of London, the University of Birmingham, and the University of Melbourne.
Geoffrey Burnstock passed away in 2019 at the age of 93. He will be remembered as a pioneer in the field of neuroscience and a mentor to many young scientists. His legacy will continue to live on through his research and the scientists he inspired.
Date modified: Apr 4, 2023We seek for an accuracy and correctness in our content. In case you spot any mistake, please contact us
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